When Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles examined the most common causes of all MOT test failures it found that, in most cases, simple things such as faulty bulbs, too little tyre tread, or even empty windscreen washer fluid bottles were to fault. A further quarter of failures are caused by brake and suspension wear (15.3% and 14.2%) that would have been detected during routine maintenance.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles claims to have one of the best MOT test success rates in the industry, with a 98% pass rate. Every vehicle serviced by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is checked thoroughly, with items including headlamps and indicators, brake lights, wheels and tyres, seats and seatbelts all assessed for operation and wear. This means that Van Centres enjoy a high pass rate when owners return for an MOT.
Commenting on the findings, Kevin Rendell, head of service and parts, said: ‘The news that 50% of all LCVs on the road are failing their MOT tests first time round is startling. These figures clearly show that a lack of regular routine maintenance of commercial vehicles is proving to be a false economy for some UK van users when it comes to MOT time.
‘UK van owners are risking increased running bills, extended vehicle downtime periods and, potentially, a decrease in the overall resale value of their vehicle by not looking after their van properly.’
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers a fixed national MOT test prices set at £40 for Class 4 and £50 for Class 7 vehicles. Businesses can purchase a service and MOT test package at one of its dedicated Van Centres for £145 ex VAT.