Classics could become MoT exempt

Classic cars and motorbikes could be exempted from the MoT test under proposals published for consultation today by Roads Minister Mike Penning.

Classic and historic vehicles are often very well maintained by their owners and have a much lower accident and MoT failure rate than newer cars. The current requirement for these vehicles to undergo an MoT test goes over and above the obligations set out in European legislation. As part of the Government's commitment to cutting unnecessary red tape, today's proposals would exempt private vehicles manufactured before 1960 from the MoT test, reducing costs for owners.

Mike Penning said:

"We are committed to reducing regulation which places a financial burden on motorists without providing significant overall benefits. Owners of classic cars and motorbikes are enthusiasts who maintain their vehicles well - they don't need to be told to look after them, they're out there every weekend checking the condition of the engine, tyres and bodywork.

"That is why I am today putting forward proposals to scrap the MoT test for these vehicles - this will result in savings for the Government and for motorists."

Many of the features of the modern MoT test are not suitable for testing classic vehicles built more fifty years ago. However, owners of classic vehicles will still be legally required to ensure that their cars are safe and in a proper condition to be on the road

These changes are being taken forward separately from the Department for Transport's main MOT review.

The consultation starts today and closes on 26 January 2012. The consultation document can be found here: www.dft.gov.uk/consultations

pity your link comes up as not found

bill

thinking about that the Conservatives did say once they got back into power they would bo back to the 25 year ruling for vehicle tax, but nothing has ever happened, suppose it is because of a coalition government
Bill

I really don't know what I think of making pre-60's cars mot exempt. There are pro's and cons.
I can see what they mean about them being owned by enthusiasts but it WILL get abused and anyone who thinks differently is blind really. Imagine the sort of junk that would be driving around!



Although the tax rule should be back!!!

~Lee

Yup the tax rule should be back !!
Remember though old commercial vehicles do not need an MOT like showmans etc.
Bill

As mentioned some will abuse it.

I see the reasoning to this, enthusiast, well maintained, low mileage.

Personally I think it would be better thought out if it was every two or three years.

We know of one classic car owner who only found out about a broken spring due to MOT test, might have gone un-noticed till ?????



And it was sheer luck I found about my wheel due to a leaky slave cylinder.

mgbill wrote:

pity your link comes up as not found

bill

Link fixed now

http://www.dft.gov.uk/consultations