Latest official driver updates
The latest MOT changes, a separate DVSA update relevant to drivers, and the latest Highway Code update. Follow each official source for full details and effective dates.
Official sources checked daily. Dates shown belong to the updates, not today's check.
DVSA began introducing vehicle photos at MOT tests on 3 August 2026. Access is being rolled out gradually; taking photos is currently voluntary, not a new requirement for every MOT.
Read on DVSA's blog ↗ Latest DVSA updates · Amended 1 June 2026 MOT changes for heavier zero-emission vans In force from 1 June 2026 — specified goods vehicles onlyFrom 1 June 2026, zero-emission goods vehicles weighing 3,501–4,250kg fall within Class 7 MOT testing. The manual also updates their brake, tyre and speed-limiter checks.
Read on GOV.UK ↗ Latest Highway Code update · 22 October 2025 Traffic signsUpdated signs for buses, cycles and trams. A separate plate displaying the word “only” is no longer required beneath these signs.
Read on GOV.UK ↗Advice from your Basingstoke workshop
Answers to common questions about MOTs, electric cars and everyday vehicle care.
Why Is My Car Air Conditioning Not Blowing Cold Air?
Warm air from the vents can have several causes. The useful first step is to work out whether the problem is weak airflow, poor cooling or a fault that comes and goes.
Read article Electric & hybrid vehiclesElectric Vehicles or Hybrid: Which Is Better?
The better choice depends on how you use the car and where you can charge it. Start with your normal week of driving, then consider the longer journeys you make less often.
Read article Tyres & wheel alignmentHow Can I Tell If My Wheel Alignment Is Out?
Uneven tyre wear, a steering wheel that no longer sits straight or a change in the way the car tracks can be reasons to arrange a check. An inspection is needed to confirm the cause.
Read article Winter vehicle careWinter Vehicle Checks for Electric Vehicles
An electric car needs the usual winter attention to tyres, visibility and brakes, alongside a charging plan that allows for colder weather.
Read article Electric vehicle servicingDo Electric Cars Need Servicing?
Yes. An electric car has different maintenance needs from a petrol or diesel car, but it still needs care. The right work and intervals depend on the model and its manufacturer’s instructions.
Read article MOT adviceDo Electric Cars Need an MOT?
Yes. Being fully electric does not, by itself, make a car exempt from an MOT. Most ordinary passenger cars in Great Britain need their first test by the third anniversary of registration and then annually.
Read article Seasonal vehicle checksEssential Checks for Winter Driving
A little preparation makes it easier to spot problems before a cold, wet or dark journey. Start with the parts that affect visibility, grip and reliable everyday use.
Read articleAdvice and Vehicle care guides
Understand what these important systems do, why looking after them matters and the warning signs that suggest the vehicle needs attention.
Understanding your MOT due date
The MOT due date is the deadline by which most vehicles must pass their next annual roadworthiness test to remain legally usable on public roads.
Wet belt or timing belt?
Wet belts and conventional timing belts keep critical internal engine components moving in precise synchronisation.
Which air-con gas does my car use?
Vehicle air-conditioning systems use a specific refrigerant—commonly R134a or R1234yf—to move heat out of the cabin.
Clutches
The clutch connects and disconnects the engine from the gearbox so the vehicle can pull away and change gear smoothly.
Turbos
A turbo forces more air into the engine to produce useful power efficiently from a smaller engine.
Servicing your vehicle
Routine servicing renews key oils and filters and checks components that naturally wear between MOT tests.
Tyres
Tyres are the vehicle's only contact with the road and provide the grip needed for steering, braking and acceleration.
Wheel alignment
Wheel alignment sets the wheel angles to the vehicle manufacturer's specification so the tyres meet the road correctly.
Brake fluid change
Brake fluid transfers pressure from the brake pedal through the hydraulic system and naturally absorbs moisture as it ages.
Suspension
The suspension supports the vehicle, absorbs bumps and helps keep each tyre firmly in contact with the road.
Rust and welding
Rust and corrosion can weaken vehicle metal. Welding can repair suitable areas of the floor, sills and supporting structure that have been affected.
Catalytic converters & DPF systems
Catalytic converters treat harmful exhaust gases, while diesel particulate filters capture soot and periodically burn it away.
Need advice about something else?
If a warning light, noise, smell or change in the way the vehicle drives is concerning you, contact the garage with the registration and a short description. We will explain the most suitable next step.