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MOT analysis from experts at Halfords Autocentres warns that an additional 1.7million drivers will try and book their test in October. This would be on top of the usual two million vehicles which usually get tested at this time of the year creating an 85 percent increase in demand.
Halfords Managing Director, Andy Randall has warned bookings have “increased” over the past few months.
He said demand for car services was just as high as MOT’s as drivers “look to combine the two” after their cars have been locked away for months.
Mr Randall said: “We’ve been urging drivers to beat the October rush since the beginning of summer and book their vehicles in for an MoT and service before the autumn and winter months, when motorists will be joining millions of others who have held off getting their MOT done.
“Bookings have increased over the last several months and so have services as motorists look to combine the two.
“As drivers are making shorter journeys, this puts a strain on the car meaning they need more services and MoTs.
“The MOT test remains the best way to ensure vehicles are safe to drive.”
The Driving and Vehicle Standard Agency (DVSA) has previously warned centres will be very busy in September, October and November.
They warned drivers could face “double the usual demand” and have encouraged drivers to get their tests done as soon as possible.
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The DVSA has also warned which areas are likely to be most affected by a sudden decline in demand.
They have predicted Birmingham will have the highest demand over October and November with an estimated 59.36 percent increase in drivers needing tests.
Sheffield, Nottingham, Leicester and Peterborough were also identified for their predicted heavy demand this autumn.
Motorists who are unable to get an MOT test booked in will be unable to use their cars on the road legally.
Driving without a valid MOT test could see motorists fined up to £1,000 or issued heavier charges if their vehicle is in a dangerous condition.
Research from Halfords Autocentres reveals that as many as one in five cars have been driven without a valid test certificate.
A total of 64 percent of those who had driven without a valid certificate said they had simply forgotten to get a test done.
Meanwhile, 33 percent said they could not afford to take the MOT test, something which could be an issue as financial uncertainty hits many families.
A total of 26 percent said they did not get their car tested simply because they were worried it would fail.
New analysis from Halfords has revealed that 45 percent of road users were either very or fairly concerned about the roadworthiness of their vehicles.
Many drivers put this down to the temporary extension which has left many vehicles unchecked for several months.
Halfords warns that leaving cars unused for some length of time can lead to problems.
They warn that common issues include batteries losing charge, tyres losing air and car parts suffering wear.
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