Future of roads minister invites IGA to MOT fee cap talks

6 February 2025  

Garage industry leaders are to hold crunch talks with the government in an ongoing campaign to resolve the “stagnant” MOT price cap that they say is causing significant financial strain to the sector.

Aftermarket reported in December that the Independent Garage Association was pushing for a meeting with ministers over the cap, which has remained unchanged for more than 14 years.

Now the association has been invited to talks with future of roads minister Lilian Greenwood (pictured), the IGA revealed yesterday.

The meeting will focus on the essential nature of MOT tests in maintaining the UK’s road safety record and improving environmental standards and stress how the unchanging fee, amidst significant rising operational costs, threatens the viability of independent garages.

IGA chief executive Stuart James welcomed the chance for direct talks. He said: “This meeting is a crucial step in highlighting how the unchanged fee, coupled with inflationary pressures and additional costs outlined in the recent autumn budget, creates an unsustainable environment for many independent garage businesses.

“The IGA is advocating for a fairer economic landscape that not only supports independent garages but also prioritises consumer safety and workforce development.”

The MOT test is a cornerstone of road safety and consumer protection in the UK, ensuring that vehicles meet essential safety and environmental standards, the IGA said.

But maintaining the quality and integrity of MOT testing in the face of rising costs and evolving vehicle technologies requires adequate funding.

Increasing the MOT fee is a pragmatic and necessary step to ensuring garages can invest in advanced equipment, infrastructure, and ongoing training for technicians, the IGA said.