This article was published on 1 August 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.
When it comes to car maintenance, two terms often cause confusion: MOT and car service. While they might seem similar, they serve very different purposes. So why not take a read of the Police Mutual guide to understand the differences and keep your vehicle safe, legal, and running smoothly.
What is an MOT Test?
An MOT test is a legal requirement in the UK for most vehicles over three years old. It’s an annual inspection that checks whether your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the government.
Think of it as a pass/fail test. If your car doesn’t meet the required standards, it fails the MOT and must be repaired before it can be driven again (except to a garage for repairs or a retest).
What’s checked during an MOT?
- Brakes and tyres
- Lights and indicators
- Windscreen wipers and washers
- Exhaust emissions
- Seatbelts and horn
You can’t legally drive without a valid MOT certificate (unless you’re on your way to a pre-booked test or repair), and doing so could invalidate your car insurance.
What is a car service?
A car service is a routine maintenance check recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Unlike an MOT, it’s not a legal requirement—but it’s essential for keeping your car in good condition and avoiding unexpected breakdowns.
Types of car service
- Interim service (every 6 months or 6,000 miles)
- Full service (annually or every 12,000 miles)
- Major service (every 24 months or 24,000 miles)
Typical service tasks include:
- Oil and filter changes
- Brake fluid top-up
- Engine diagnostics
- Battery testing
- Suspension and steering inspection
Why you need both
Skipping a service because your MOT is up to date is a bit like skipping a health check because you feel fine. One checks for problems; the other helps prevent them.
Regular servicing can help you:
- Avoid costly repairs
- Improve safety and performance
- Extend your vehicle’s lifespan
And when it comes to insurance claims, a well-maintained car can make the process smoother.
Now what about Car Insurance?
If you don’t have car insurance with us, why not get a quote?
Unlike many insurance policies, you can spread the annual cost into monthly payments at no extra cost, letting you budget over the long term. There is also no need to wait for your renewal – switch today and you’ll receive cancellation fees up to the value of £125 that might be charged by your existing insurer.
For more information about our car insurance and how you would benefit, visit our Car Insurance page here or call 0151 242 7640
Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.