MOT vs service: what is the difference?

People often use the words interchangeably, but an MOT and a service are not the same job.

An MOT

An MOT is a legal annual test for most cars over three years old. It checks that your car meets minimum roadworthiness and emissions standards on the day of the test. It does not fix anything and it is not a guarantee of reliability.

A service

A service is maintenance. It replaces fluids and filters and checks parts for wear, helping to prevent breakdowns and keep the car running well. It is not a legal requirement, but skipping services can lead to bigger bills later.

Can you do both together?

Yes. Many drivers book an MOT and service together to save a trip. Some garages offer them as a combined booking.