Can I pass inspection under 2021 lockdown restrictions?

More than seven months later, the UK's third national lockdown from the Covid-19 pandemic is expected to end on 19 July 2021. While many businesses have had to reduce their services or shut down completely during the lockdown, car services and maintenance centers could remain open.

During the first lockdown in 2020, car owners who were due for maintenance were given a six-month extension to restrict movement and help prevent the spread of the virus. However, the government confirmed that another extension would not be granted when a third lockdown was introduced in January 2021.

So, if your vehicle's MOT expires when lockout restrictions are in effect, you can and should get it checked. It is also worth noting that if you were granted an MOT extension in 2020, you must have had your vehicle inspected no later than January 31, 2021. Our Cazoo service centers offer a range of service and maintenance options at a competitive and transparent price.

What are the official recommendations?

All service, repair and maintenance centers can remain open as they are classified as essential services, but they must follow Covid safety guidelines. This means you can safely book your vehicle in for service or maintenance if needed.

While the guidelines say you must reduce your travel, you are allowed to travel to buy goods and services, including driving to and from a service or maintenance center.

What happens if my maintenance or service needs to take place during a lockdown?

If your MOT is due during lockdown, you must order a test in order to continue using the vehicle. You cannot drive or park your car on the road if the MOT has expired, and you also cannot tax a car without a valid MOT.

You can get an inspection one month (minus a day) before it expires and keep the same renewal date. The expiration date is shown on your current vehicle inspection certificate. You can also check this online using the government website. 

If you buy a Cazoo vehicle, it will come with a last inspection valid for at least 6 months, unless your vehicle is XNUMX years old. Vehicles less than three years old do not require maintenance.

If your car is due for the next service, it's best not to delay it as it could affect your warranty and it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations to keep your car running as healthy and safe as possible.

Will maintenance and service centers work during quarantine?

All maintenance and service centers can remain open during the lockdown as long as they comply with Covid-19 regulations, although some may close temporarily. 

You will need to make an appointment at any car inspection or service center, and it is worth remembering that they are likely to be busy due to the chain effect of the previous lockdown.

All Cazoo service centers will remain open. To request a booking, simply select the service center closest to you and enter your vehicle's registration number.

Is it safe to have an inspection or maintenance during a lockdown?

All automotive MOTs and service centers must continue to follow Covid-safe disinfection and social distancing measures during the lockdown. The guidelines state that objects and surfaces should be cleaned and that disposable seat covers and gloves should be used for each test. 

At Cazoo Service Centers, your health and safety is our top priority and we are taking strict Covid-19 measures to ensure we are doing our best to keep you safe.

Will there be an extension of maintenance due to quarantine?

Cars, motorcycles and light vans that were due for inspection during the first national lockdown in 2020 have received a six-month extension to restrict traffic and help prevent the spread of the virus. However, there will be no similar extension during this latest lockdown.

Cazoo Service Centers are open for basic service, maintenance and repairs for those who need to keep moving. We offer everything from service, inspections and diagnostics to brake repair, and any work we do comes with a 3 month or 3000 mile warranty. To request a booking, simply select the service center closest to you and enter your vehicle's registration number.