DVSA approved MOT testing station — fast, reliable, and fairly priced.
An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is an annual check required for all vehicles over three years old. It ensures your vehicle meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the UK government, as defined by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).
Without a valid MOT certificate, it is illegal to drive your vehicle on public roads (unless you're driving to a pre-booked MOT appointment). Driving without an MOT can result in a fine of up to £1,000 and can invalidate your car insurance.
At Red Lion, our experienced, DVSA-qualified MOT testers carry out every test thoroughly and impartially. If your vehicle fails, we'll give you a clear explanation of what needs to be fixed and a transparent quote — no pressure, no guesswork.
Book Your MOT TodayAn MOT test covers dozens of checks across multiple vehicle systems. Here are the key areas inspected during every test at Red Lion.
Brake performance, pads, discs, lines, and handbrake operation.
Steering response, play, and power steering system integrity.
All exterior lights including headlights, indicators, brake, and reversing lights.
Tread depth (minimum 1.6mm), tyre condition, pressure, and correct fitment.
Exhaust condition, emission levels, and secure fitment to the vehicle.
Structural integrity, sharp edges, and any condition that could cause injury.
All seatbelts for correct operation, condition, and secure anchorage points.
Windscreen condition, wipers, washers, and driver's field of vision.
We've made booking and completing your MOT as straightforward as possible.
Use our online booking system to choose your preferred date and time. Quick and easy.
Bring your vehicle to us at the agreed time. Our team will take care of the rest.
Our DVSA-qualified tester carries out a thorough inspection of your vehicle.
Pass? Collect your certificate. Fail? We'll explain what's needed with a clear quote.
Got questions about your MOT? We've answered the most common ones below.
Your car needs its first MOT when it is three years old. After that, it requires an MOT every year. You can check your MOT due date online using the DVLA vehicle enquiry service. You can book your MOT up to one month before its expiry date without losing any remaining time on your current certificate.
If your car fails, we'll give you a clear list of all the defects found — categorised as Major or Dangerous. We'll provide a transparent, no-obligation quote for the repair work. If you choose to have us carry out the repairs, we can often retest your vehicle the same day at a reduced retest fee. You are under no obligation to have us fix it, and you can take your car elsewhere for repairs if you prefer.
If your vehicle fails on a Major defect and your current MOT certificate has expired, you cannot legally drive it on public roads — except to drive directly to a pre-booked repair appointment. If the failure is classed as Dangerous, the vehicle must not be driven at all. We recommend arranging for repairs immediately to stay legal and keep yourself and others safe.
A standard MOT test typically takes around 45 to 60 minutes. However, we recommend allowing up to 90 minutes to account for any additional checks or minor advisories that may need discussing. If your vehicle requires repairs following the test, we will advise you of the expected time frame before any work begins. Most of our customers have their vehicle back the same day.
We charge the government maximum fee — the most you can legally be charged for an MOT in the UK. No hidden fees, no add-ons.
MOT Test — From
£54.85
Government maximum fee — Class 4 vehicles (cars)