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MOT Testing in Crawley | Driving a Car Without a Valid Test Certificate
Smallfield Garage Ltd is the trusted independent garage, located in Horley and just a short distance away from Crawley. We can support our customers with annual MOT testing to ensure a car meets all UK road safety and environmental standards. If you live or work in the Crawley area and need a reliable garage for annual testing, we can help you to keep your car compliant, and keep you safe on the road.
However, MOT testing is not a formality.
It is a legal requirement that helps confirm your vehicle is safe to drive. Without a certificate, you risk more than inconvenience. You also expose yourself to fines, penalty points and higher insurance costs. If you run a business, your reputation could be at risk too.
This blog post looks at some of the consequences you could face.
When Do I Need to Book in for MOT Testing?
Most cars in the UK require MOT testing once they reach three years of age. From that point onwards, the test must be carried out every 12 months. Our garage, located near Crawley, is a DVSA-approved MOT testing centre with dedicated bays and a team of trained inspectors.
MOT Testing covers safety and environmental checks to include:
- Lights, indicators and windscreen wipers
- Brakes, steering and suspension
- Seatbelts and safety equipment
- Tyres, wheels and exhaust system emissions
If the car passes a test, you will receive certification valid for a total of one year. If it fails, you should address each specified issue before your vehicle can be legally driven on public UK roads.
Driving Without the MOT Certificate
Driving without a valid MOT testing certificate is illegal unless a driver is travelling directly to a pre-booked MOT appointment or to a garage for repair services. If you are then stopped by the police, either in Crawley or elsewhere, you could face immediate penalties.
Consequences can include:
- A fine of up to £1,000 for driving without a valid certificate
- A fine of up to £2,500, three penalty points or even a driving ban if a car is in a dangerous condition
- Your insurance becoming invalidated leaving you liable for any costs when involved in a traffic accident
These penalties highlight why arranging MOT testing on time is such an essential step. The risks far outweigh costs and inconvenience.
Crawley Motorists Choose Smallfield Garage Ltd
Our garage in Horley is ideally located for motorists in Crawley who want a straightforward and dependable MOT testing service. We pride ourselves on offering clear advice, fair pricing and flexible times for appointments. We undertake testing across multiple categories.
When you bring your vehicle to us, you benefit from:
- Qualified inspectors with many years of experience
- A fully equipped workshop for MOTs and repairs
- Honest feedback and practical guidance
- Convenient access from Crawley and all nearby areas
We understand that arranging MOT testing can feel like a chore. That is why we work hard to make our processes smooth and transparent.
If your car is due its next MOT test, don’t leave booking in with us until the last minute. Calling us at the earliest opportunity will ensure that you meet your legal obligations, and you help to protect yourself from unexpected penalties in the event of a traffic stop.
Driving in Crawley without a MOT certificate isn’t worth the risk so leave MOT testing to us and stay road legal, safe and fully insured.
For MOT testing close to Crawley, call Smallfield Garage Ltd on 01342 842 996.
How to Find Us
Smallfield Garage Ltd
2 New Rd, Smallfield, Horley RH6 9QN, United Kingdom
Phone
01342 842 996
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri (8am-6pm)
Sat (8am-1pm)