Why choose the RAC for an MOT and service?
At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. So giving our members service they can trust matters. That's why we offer MOT and services from our RAC Approved Garages. Our professional mechanics have the expertise and experience to make sure your vehicle is operating safely and efficiently – results you can rely on at a price you can afford.
Full service & MOT
Save on time and book your service and MOT in at the same time. A comprehensive set of checks to make sure your vehicle is safe and working correctly during your service.
MOT
An MOT test checks if your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. Cars over 3 years old must pass an MOT test every year.
Full service
A comprehensive set of checks to make sure your car’s safe and working correctly. It should take around 1 hour 45 minutes. Recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles.
Content Guide
Introduction
Whether you’re a new or experienced car owner, keeping your car in good condition is essential. Booking a full service & MOT together not only saves time but also makes sure your vehicle is in safe working order, meeting road safety and performance standards.
What’s included in a full service and MOT
When you book a full service and MOT, your vehicle gets a thorough check. Here’s what’s typically included in a full service:
- Engine Inspection
- Cooling system check
- Engine oil and filter change
- Fuel filter check
- Air filter replacement
- Power steering fluid top-up
- Electrical Components
- Assess your battery condition
- Inspect all lights, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators
- Check that dashboard warning lights and electronics are all working properly
- Tyres and Brakes
- Measure tyre tread depth and pressure
- Inspect brake pads and discs
- Test handbrake operation and effectiveness
- Visibility Checks
- Test windscreen wiper condition and functionality
- Check windscreen washer spray and refill if needed
- Inspect mirror and windscreen for damage
- Fluid Levels
- Top up brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant/antifreeze
- Check and refill transmission fluid where needed
Different garages or mechanics may carry out their service differently. It’s important to speak to your mechanic about what they’ll do during your service.
Differences between a full service and MOT
Full service
Full services help keep your vehicle in good health and fit for the roads. Your mechanic will recommend it's done annually or depending on mileage (every 12,000 miles).
MOT
An MOT is a legal requirement that checks your car’s safety and ensure it meets environmental standards. Depending on your car’s age, generally your MOT is required annually, unless it’s less than three years old.
Having a full service before your MOT can pick up issues that might cause an MOT failure and get them fixed before it’s too late. This pre-emptive maintenance can save on costly repairs and avoid MOT retests. Regular servicing with MOT tests makes sure your car stays in good condition, drives safely, and performs efficiently. This not only extends the lifespan of your car but also ensures it meets safety standards, providing peace of mind.
Benefits of doing a full service and MOT together
Combining these services saves time and hassle. It’s more convenient than booking separate appointments. Many garages offer discounts when you book both together, reducing overall costs.
Can an MOT be done by a Mobile Mechanic?
An MOT must be done at an MOT station with specialist equipment. Some mobile mechanics can take your car to the test centre. Always check with your mechanic or garage.
Frequently Asked Questions on full service and MOT
A full service and MOT combine thorough checks and maintenance processes. The full service covers major mechanical and electrical components, including engine oil changes, filter replacements, and checks on brakes, steering, and tyres. The MOT focuses on safety and emissions, testing vehicle roadworthiness, brake efficiency, and exhaust emissions to make sure compliance with road safety standards.
Schedule a full service annually or as per your vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines, based on mileage. An MOT is required annually for all vehicles over three years old. Combining them simplifies maintenance and makes sure your car is road legal.
Yes, you can book a full service and MOT together. This is often easier and can be cheaper than booking separately. Many service providers offer packages that combine both at a discounted rate.
The time it takes to complete both a full service and an MOT can vary depending on the vehicle and the service provider. You should expect it to take several hours, as the full service is thorough, and the MOT includes several mandatory checks. It’s best to plan for at least half a day.
Often, yes. Many garages offer a discount when you book these services together. This bundled approach not only saves money but also reduces the time and hassle involved in making separate appointments.
Signs that your vehicle might fail an MOT include visible smoke from the exhaust, warning lights on the dashboard, worn brakes, and bald tyres. Regular servicing can help find and fix these issues before your MOT. This increases the chances of it passing.
If your car fails, you’ll get a list of faults classified as 'minor', 'major', or 'dangerous'. Major and dangerous faults must be fixed to pass the retest. You can repair these issues at the same garage, which might offer a free retest, or take it to another garage.