How much does an MOT cost in Essex?
The most a garage in Essex can charge for a standard car MOT is £54.85, a maximum set by the DVSA. In practice, many local garages charge less, often between £30 and £45, to win your custom. Here is the full picture, plus the 40 garages we list in Essex.
MOT prices at a glance
| Vehicle | MOT class | Maximum fee |
|---|---|---|
| Car (up to 8 seats) | Class 4 | £54.85 |
| Motorcycle | Class 1 or 2 | £29.65 |
| Small van (up to 3,000kg) | Class 7 | £58.60 |
Why MOT prices vary in Essex
The test itself is standardised, so the checks are identical at every garage in Essex. What changes is the price each garage sets, up to the £54.85 cap. A cheaper MOT is not a lesser test, it usually just means a garage is using a keen price to win your servicing and repair work too. Some also discount the MOT when you book it alongside a service.
If your car fails, you may get a free or reduced retest if you leave it at the same garage and it is retested within 10 working days. For the full picture see our guide on how much an MOT should cost, and the faults that catch drivers out in why cars fail their MOT.
MOT garages in Essex
We list 40 garages in Essex. Here are some of them, or see all MOT garages in Essex to compare on price, distance and reviews.
- Larkins Tyre & Mot 4.7 stars (241)
- Mr Unique Tyre & Exhaust
- Waterhouse Braintree Ltd
- Lookers Volvo Chelmsford
- Beam Mot Centre
- Wheels Mot Centre Ltd
- M & A Waterhouse Motor Engineers Ltd
- G & H Automotives Basildon Limited
Common questions
How much is an MOT in Essex?
The maximum for a standard car is £54.85, set by the DVSA. Many Essex garages charge less, commonly £30 to £45. The best way to find the keenest price is to compare a few local garages.
Can I get a cheaper MOT?
Yes. Garages set their own price up to the cap, so comparing local Essex garages, and booking your MOT with a service, is the simplest way to keep the cost down.
Does the MOT fee include repairs?
No. The fee covers the test and certificate only. Any repairs are quoted and charged separately, and you are free to get a second opinion.
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