4-2-2: MOT campaign confusion

13 January 2012  

INSURANCE body ABI is ‘unaware’ of an insurance premium rise of 5% cited in an MOT campaign report

The ProMOTe campaign released a report entitled, ‘A cost too far.’ The document argued that an MOT every two years would actually cost motorists more money, with additional costs forecast for an increase in fuel consumption, spare parts required and critically, additional insurance premiums.

A figure of £46.05 or 5% was given for the average rise of insurance premiums. Although the ABI were quoted in the report to be generally against the concept of less frequent testing, the organisation did not suggest any definite premium rise.

The organisation’s document also cited a 2008 DfT report into frequency change that suggested a 5% premium rise was ‘possible’.  However, this report had no connection with the insurance industry.

Responding to the test campaign’s data, the ABI responded: “Motorists have an important on-going responsibility to ensure their own vehicles are fit for the road and that safety-critical components are still functioning properly.  Beyond that, the MOT represents a good independent check.  Insurers have concerns about proposals to reduce the frequency of MOT testing. “

“While not perfect, the current system is clearly more likely to pick up on faults than less frequent tests.  Insurers are concerned that fewer tests could lead to more accidents, more injuries, more damage to cars and therefore increased motor insurance premiums. We call on the government to consider a full range of evidence before changing the current testing regime.”

It added: “We are not aware of the figure mentioned.”