Dealers in Northern Ireland object to MoT price hike

 

Dealers in Northern Ireland have expressed disappointment at the hike in the cost of MoTs

The cost of driving and vehicle tests in Northern Ireland are set to increase by nearly 25%, with re-testing seeing increases of 59.5%. This follows the Driver and Vehicle Agency’s (DVA) report which found that ‘no equality issues’ would affect the progression of the proposed fee increases.

“The NFDA remains firmly against the DVA’s recent decision to proceed with their proposed cost hikes for driving and vehicle tests, we are particularly disappointed to see that these increases are being introduced while their service is still not up to an adequate level.

Motorists in Northern Ireland are still experiencing unacceptable waiting times for an MOT, and the test itself still lacks a credible emissions test.” said Sue Robinson, NFDA CEO.

The new fees will be published on nidirect.gov.uk and will be charged for tests booked from early autumn 2023”

The NFDA said it was “seriously concerned” that the DVA had gone ahead with the move despite opposition from all areas of the automotive industry.

Sue Robinson added: “Whilst the NFDA recognises that fees have not increased since 2005, we strongly oppose the price rises across the board, in particular, the unjustifiably high increase in retest fees, which is set to disproportionally affect less affluent motorists and is poorly timed in the midst of an ongoing cost-of-living crisis. This punitive decision is an attempt by the DVA to increase revenue at motorist’s expense.

“Many households still depend on their private vehicle in all aspects of their life, including their livelihood, and an MOT is a necessary legal process to ensure the vehicle continues to operate safely. Motoring costs are already the highest they have been in decades, with unprecedented rises in insurance premiums, cost of fuel and road taxation, so we are disappointed that the DVA have concluded that it is right to increase costs further.”