MOT Repairs Costing UK Motorists Billions

According to recent research from Allianz Your Cover Insurance, two in five cars fail their MOT test every year in the UK. Motorists are then reported to pay more than £2 billion in repairs and the cost of a second MOT to get their vehicle back on the road.

Here are the Top 5 reasons vehicles didn’t pass their MOT according to Allianz Your Cover's research:

• Damage to tyres (28%)
• Problems with the exhaust (17%)
• Windscreen wiper blades need replacing (14%)
• Defective headlights (12%) 
• Brake lights not working (10%)

Not only do these items cost motorists money in MOT bills and repairs, but damaged tyres and dysfunctioning brake lights are a real danger to all motorists. These are items that car owners should regularly check, but most of us lead busy lives and do not find the time.

Your local Good Garage Scheme member would be happy to check your tyres, lights, windscreen wipers and exhaust and advise if any need replacing. Simply visit www.GoodGarageScheme.com and find a local trustworthy garage. The Good Garage Scheme website has over 600,000 customer reviews so that you can read feedback from previous customers before you visit.

It's like having a friend in the know!

Thefts of Catalytic Converters on the Rise

The Good Garage Scheme urges all motorists to beware of the rise of thieves targeting catalytic converters. The part, located on the underside of your car in the exhaust system contains valuable precious metals and police have reported a rise in incidents throughout the UK.

Thieves have been known to saw off or unscrew the part quickly and can then sell it on to a scrap metal dealer and have been known to steal from an area of parked cars.

Here are some tips to deter thieves:

•    Park in a garage if you have one, otherwise park in a well-lit area.

•    4x4s and vans are more vulnerable because they sit higher from the ground. Park close to another vehicle so the underside is more difficult to access.

•    Place something heavy under the car that will make a noise if moved like a block of concrete, but remember to remove it before setting off.

•    Install sensor lights if possible

•    Keep an eye our for anyone working on a vehicle and report suspicious behaviour to your local police


A catalytic converter can earn a thief around £200 but could cost the victim of the stolen part £1,000 to replace.

If you are concerned about your catalytic converter, please contact your local Good Garage Scheme member at http://www.goodgaragescheme.com.