MOT vs Car Service: What’s the Difference?

If you own a car in the UK, you’ve likely heard the terms MOT and car service used interchangeably – but they’re not the same thing. At R & J Car Services Felixstowe, we often get asked what the difference is, so here’s a quick guide to clear it up.

An MOT test is a legal requirement once your car is over three years old. It’s an annual safety inspection to ensure your vehicle meets minimum roadworthiness and environmental standards. The MOT looks at essential components like brakes, tyres, lights, steering, suspension, and emissions. It’s not about improving performance – it’s about confirming your car is safe to drive.

A car service, on the other hand, is routine maintenance designed to keep your car running smoothly and prevent future breakdowns. It includes oil and filter changes, fluid top-ups, tyre checks, brake inspections, and general wear-and-tear maintenance. Regular servicing helps extend your car’s lifespan, improve fuel efficiency, and spot potential issues before they become costly repairs.

In short:

✅ MOT = Legal safety test

🔧 Service = Preventative maintenance

While your MOT is mandatory, a service is strongly recommended – ideally once a year or every 12,000 miles.

At R & J Car Services in Felixstowe, we offer both MOT testing and full servicing to keep you safe and road-ready all year round.

👉 Book your MOT or service today