Last Updated on July 14, 2024 by Asfa Rasheed
A vehicle’s safety and roadworthiness are evaluated annually through MOT tests. In the UK, a MOT certificate is necessary for cars older than three years old. Failing to obtain one can result in fines and penalties. Car owners can choose between independent garages and dealerships when it’s time for a MOT test. Although many people might think that dealerships are the best option because they sell and service automobiles, there are a number of benefits to having your car’s MOT tested at an independent garage. We’ll go over those advantages and the reasons independent garages might be a better fit for you and your vehicle in this post.
Personalised service
Dealerships frequently cannot match the level of individualised service provided by independent garages. Independent garages have the luxury of spending more time and energy on each customer because they are not subject to the same strict schedules and high-volume sales targets as dealerships. This implies that technicians will have more time to talk with clients about problems, respond to inquiries, and handle concerns. Additionally, by getting to know their clients and their cars better, they can customise their services to fit each client’s needs.
Cost savings
The potential cost savings are one of the biggest benefits of getting your MOT test done at an independent garage. Independent garages frequently provide much better rates for the same calibre of service than dealerships do. The average cost of a MOT test at a franchised dealer is £49.80, while the average cost at an independent garage is £37.60, indicating a price difference of more than 25%, according to data from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority.
Dealerships incur greater overhead costs because of their expansive training programs, pricey equipment, and large facilities. Conversely, independent garages typically employ fewer people, run out of smaller spaces, and have less expensive equipment. They are therefore able to pass on the savings to their customers because they are not burdened with the same financial obligations as dealerships.
Expertise and specialisation
Independent mechanics with years of experience working on particular makes and models have a thorough understanding of the peculiarities and frequent problems with these cars. Due to their expertise, they are able to diagnose issues quickly and carry out repairs effectively, ultimately saving car owners money and time. Independent mechanics frequently take part in continuing education and training courses in order to stay current on the newest methods and innovations. This guarantees that they can take on new challenges as they come up and that they can continue to handle complex issues with proficiency. Because of their specialisation and experience, they can identify issues quickly, which minimises the need for needless repairs and wasteful spending.
Convenience
Independent garages may provide more flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend hours, in contrast to dealerships, which frequently have limited hours of operation. This implies that you won’t need to take time off from work or juggle other obligations in order to schedule your MOT test at a time that works best for you. To further improve the convenience of the process, certain independent garages may also provide benefits like loaner cars, shuttle services, or free inspections. Independent garages also frequently have shorter wait times than dealerships, which is another benefit. This implies that you won’t have to wait around for your car to be ready for hours on end in order to complete your vehicle MOT test quickly and effectively. Those who depend on their cars for daily tasks and cannot bear to be without them for long will find this to be especially helpful.
Trust and reputation
Independent garages, in contrast to big chain stores, frequently rely significantly on repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations. They are aware that establishing a strong reputation in the neighbourhood is essential to their success and that even one unfavourable review or disgruntled client can have a permanent negative impact on their company. They thus go above and beyond to guarantee that each and every client is happy.
