New data from automotive experts at Halfords shows that four in ten UK motorists say that they are concerned about affording their next MOT test and subsequent repairs.
Among those who participated in the survey itself, some 45 per cent say that even if they will not be able to afford their next MOT, they still plan on continuing driving their vehicle regardless of what the law says.
In addition to this, 17 per cent of drivers - which equates to millions of motorists - admit that they have previously already driven a car without a valid certificate of MOT in the last 12 months.
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The Express reports that a further fifth admitted that they know someone else who has - sparking concerns about the number of unsafe vehicles on UK roads. Additional findings from Halfords also outlined a growing issue of 'working poverty' with nine in ten in this situation saying that their job would become impossible to carry out - or at the very least much harder - without a car.
However, affording a vehicle has been made harder as of recent due to rising motoring costs - hand in hand with other rising bills like food, electricity and housing. Most Brits are struggling with motoring costs at the moment - with 81 per cent concerned with meeting at least one motoring-related cost in the next 12 months.
Fuel (62 percent), repairs (43 percent) and insurance (40 percent) were the top three expenses they are most worried about according to the survey.
Chris Lunn, Head of Category at Halfords Autocentres, commented on the data, saying some drivers may be taking major risks. He said: “The findings raise serious concerns about the ability of Brits to afford key, safety-related, motoring expenses like MOTs, as well as the potential dangers this could lead to in the form of millions of cars on our roads without an MOT certificate.
“MOTs are a vital and legally-required check-up on any vehicle over three years old, to ensure it is roadworthy. Put simply, driving without one is both illegal, and can invalidate insurance. Those who are struggling to make ends meet are most likely to not be able to afford their MOT - but for this group, it could lead to a dangerous cycle of poverty.
“Amongst them, more than nine in ten say that not having a car would make their job impossible or significantly harder. Not having an MOT puts them at risk of losing their car, and therefore their job, making their financial situation far worse.
“That’s why we’re trying to help by offering free MOTs to families who rely on their car but are struggling financially, and discounted MOTs for all Brits to help keep motoring affordable.”
Halfords has reportedly in-turn announced that it will be offering 1,000 free MOT tests to families struggling with the cost of living, through a partnership with Family Action. The charity will be giving MOTs directly to families who are the most in need.
To make this as affordable as possible, Halfords is offering £10 off MOTs to anyone who signs up for its Motoring Club, with it being completely free to sign up. To further help, the company is also offering 10,000 free MOTs to its employees.
Many motorists are having to compromise on other areas of expense, with more than a third saying they are having to spend less on socialising in order to meet their motoring costs. David Holmes, CBE, Chief Executive of Family Action, said: “We are delighted to be working with Halfords and we are extremely grateful for the donation of 1,000 free MOTs to share with the families we support.
“As the survey reveals, it is essential for many families to have access to a safe and roadworthy car for work, and for their day-to-day activities. Halfords generous support will help many families facing very difficult choices about how to spend what money they have this winter.
“It will ensure that they have peace of mind that their car is safe and roadworthy, and it will be one less thing for them to worry about.”
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