Full Service and MOT in Canterbury

Why choose the RAC for a MOT and service in Canterbury?

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.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

View all garages

Westwood Mot, Tyre & Service Centre Ltd

5.0/5

We are one of Thanet's newest vehicle service centres, aiming to provide a main dealer service at local garage prices. Our staff have many years experience at main dealer level, giving you the assurance and confidence that your vehicle is in very safe hands. Westwood Service Centre has been set up by former employees of Palm Bay Garage and is now headed up and owned by David Locke who has over 25 years of award winning experience within the Aftersales environment for customer delivery and satisfaction. David aims to follow on from what Palm Bay's many loyal customers had come to expect albeit at a lower price - as not being tied to one manufacturer enables us to be in full control of our costs.

Unit 3-4 Goodwin Park, Westwood Industrial Estate, Margate, CT94HX

Horizon Motor Group Ltd.

4.4/5

We are an established local independent garage and are proud to be members of Autofirst Network – a nationwide network of independent garages operating to the Network’s 6 core values of Capability, Consistency, Care, Clarity, Cost Effectiveness and Customer Focus. For your added peace of mind we are members of the Motor Ombudsman service which is approved by The Trading Standards Institute. In short, we are a local garage you can trust offering you the support and service guarantees of a national network, giving you complete peace of mind. We cover Wingham and surrounding areas and also offer courtesy cars and a free collection and delivery service.

Canterbury, Wingham, CT31NL

Westbere Garage

4.0/5

We are a quality-minded garage based in Canterbury. We are also the largest independent garage in Canterbury. Our customers are proud of the top quality, professional and friendly service that we offer. We pride ourselves in high customer satisfaction. This is why we are continually investing in a new technology training and equipment that enable us to deliver excellent service to our customers. Be rest assured, your car will be looked after by our highly qualified technicians. We offer the same quality level servicing that you would experience at the main dealer. But we offer you the personal touch, we are a family run business and pride ourselves in high customer satisfaction. By using Westbere Garage you will be treated as an individual, and you can rest assured with our company policy: “Top Quality Service, Nothing Less”

Island Rd, Hersden, Canterbury, CT34JD

A.T. Garage Services Ltd

3.7/5

Unit 2, Primrose Industrial Estate, Dover, CT17 0UP

Ivydene Ltd, Bosch Car Service

3.5/5

We are a family run business who have grown from strength to strength over the years, and are recognised by Bosch as a centre of excellence. Established in 1981, we have been Bosch agents for over 25 years. Our investment in the latest diagnostics equipment means we that we can offer specialised services for most makes and models of vehicle, including light commercial vehicles. We have some of the most up-to-date diagnostic equipment, ensuring you receive and expert service from our highly skilled technicians. We also are an MOT approved centre.

Unit 99 Ellingham Industrial Estate Way, Ellingham Way, Ashford, TN23 6LZ

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.

Road test

Before and after the service, we’ll run a general road test to detect if anything feels or sounds unusual and to make sure there aren’t any new problems.

Under the bonnet

- Battery and charging system check – Cooling system check – Engine oil and filter change – Fuel filter check – Air filter replacement – Power steering fluid top-up

Exterior checks

– Steering and suspension – Wheels and tyres – Brakes – Front and rear lights – Exhaust – Mechanical parts – Wipers – Wiper fluid top up

Safety feature checks

– Horn – Seatbelts – Seatbelt mounts

Full diagnostic check

We’ll plug into your onboard engine management systems using our specialist diagnostic computer. We’ll then run a full engine management system check, looking for electrical issues and any problems flagged up by the electric control units on the engine, the power steering, transmission, sensors and more.

MOT

– Lights and signalling – Brakes and tyres – Steering and suspension – Exhaust and emissions – Visibility

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.

Lights and signalling

Check lights, indicators, and reflectors.

Brakes and tyres

Test brakes and examine tyre condition.

Steering and suspension

Inspect for wear and proper operation.

Exhaust and emissions

Measure emissions and check the exhaust system.

Visibility

Check mirrors, windscreen, wipers, and washers.

RAC Mobile Mechanic under the wheel arch of a white car

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.

Road test

Before and after the service, we’ll run a general road test to detect if anything feels or sounds unusual and to make sure there aren’t any new problems.

Under the bonnet

- Battery and charging system check – Cooling system check – Engine oil and filter change – Fuel filter check – Air filter replacement – Power steering fluid top-up

Exterior checks

– Steering and suspension – Wheels and tyres – Brakes – Front and rear lights – Exhaust – Mechanical parts – Wipers – Wiper fluid top up

Safety feature checks

– Horn – Seatbelts – Seatbelt mounts

Full diagnostic check

And it’s not just a MOT and service that we do in Canterbury

Repairs

RAC Approved Garages can offer expert repairs at a fair price. Whether you’re looking to have your brake pads and discs repaired at home or need more extensive work performed at a garage – the RAC has the solution for you.

Diagnostic

If you’re unsure what’s causing your vehicle problems, have it looked at by an expert. RAC Approved Garages come with our seal of approval. You can rest assured that you’ll be given an accurate diagnosis and be fully informed of all your options for repair.

Frequently Asked Questions on full service and MOT

What does a full service and MOT cover?

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.

How often should I get a full service and MOT?

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.

Can I book a full service and MOT together?

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.

How long does a full service and MOT take?

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.

Is it cheaper to get a full service and MOT together?

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.

What are the signs that I might fail my MOT?

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 my car fails the MOT, what happens next?

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.

Browse other top locations and makes across our network in the UK

Filter by

MOT and service in Canterbury

Book a local RAC Approved Garage that you can trust.