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Extra repair work was needed for 48 percent of vehicles across July compared to just 25 percent last year, according to experts at BookMyGarage.com. Experts at the firm say the sudden increase illustrated the impact a lack of running could have on vehicles.
Common defects that could develop through a lack of use include damage to tyres and fuel leaks.
The experts warn that short and infrequent journeys under lockdown could have had a major impact on diesel particulate filters.
Analysis from the firm has revealed that one in 10 vehicles on UK roads over the past four months could have been travelling with a dangerous safety issue.
They warn that defective tyres and brakes could have accounted for the majority of the failures in a major risk to road users.
Karen Rotberg, co-founder of BookMyGarage, warned that not using a vehicle did not mean faults could not still develop.
As more drivers returned to the road, she warned that MOT bookings had doubled in the last month with garages predicting a “surge” in demand for tests.
News that many vehicles have required extra repair work will worry garages who may not be able to cope with a sudden increase.
She said: “Many people have left their cars on the driveway for the last four months, or taken only infrequent car journeys. But this doesn’t mean that faults can’t develop.
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“The number of people who are booking their MOT and service together has doubled in the last month, compared with the year as a whole.
“This shows that the mentality of maintaining vehicles generally is returning so we expect demand to surge.”
MOT test extensions come to an end today meaning those who are due a test from August 1 must secure a valid certificate.
Tests which were due in July have been extended for a further six months to help ease demand and prevent a burst of interest.
However the Department for Transport has urged drivers who do not wish to wait can voluntarily secure an MOT test earlier.
With many drivers looking to return to full road use, many may take garages up on this offer which may lead to heavier backlogs.
The DfT has previously warned it is the responsibility of the driver to make sure their car is always in a road legal condition.
Motorists can be hit with fines and penalty points if they are caught driving a vehicle which is considered to be in a dangerous condition.
Driving with a dangerous car could put your own safety and that of other drivers at risk and could also lead to car insurance policies being invalidated.
Road experts at Goodyear have warned drivers must conduct a few general checks before taking their car for an MOT test.
They urge drivers to ensure car horns, wipers and windscreen washers are fully operational before taking their test.
They warned drivers to check their vehicle’s fluid levels, check their windscreen for any chips and make sure their headlights are properly working.
Goodyear also warns drivers to conduct a thorough check on their car tyres as this could be the difference between passing or failing.
They warned motorists to ensure any spare tyres they have are also road legal before warning this was a feature that can be easily overlooked by owners.
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