🛠️ What’s the Difference Between a Service and an MOT? A Clear Guide
🛠️ What’s the Difference Between a Service and an MOT? A Clear Guide
By Andrews Car Centre – MOT & Servicing Experts in Lincoln
It’s a question we hear every week:
“Do I need a service and an MOT?”
The answer? Yes — and they’re not the same thing.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we’re here to make car maintenance simple. Below, we explain the difference between an MOT and a car service — and why both matter for keeping your vehicle safe, legal, and reliable.
🚗 What Is an MOT?
An MOT (Ministry of Transport test) is a legal requirement for most vehicles over 3 years old in the UK. It's an annual check to ensure your car meets minimum road safety and environmental standards.
✅ What’s Checked in an MOT:
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Brakes and brake fluid
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Tyres and tread depth
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Suspension and steering
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Exhaust emissions
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Lights, indicators, horn
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Windscreen, wipers, washers
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Seatbelts and structural safety
It’s a pass/fail test — you either get a certificate or a list of issues to fix.
🧰 What Is a Car Service?
A car service is a routine maintenance check, designed to keep your vehicle running smoothly, extend its lifespan, and prevent major faults. It’s not a legal requirement, but it’s strongly recommended by manufacturers.
🔧 What’s Included in a Typical Service:
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Engine oil and oil filter replacement
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Air filter and fuel filter checks
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Brake, steering, and suspension inspection
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Tyre pressure and condition checks
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Fluid top-ups (coolant, screenwash, etc.)
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Battery health check
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Diagnostic scan (where needed)
There are different levels of service: interim, full, and major, depending on your mileage and vehicle age.
⚖️ Key Differences: MOT vs Service
| MOT | Car Service | |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Requirement | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Pass/Fail Test | ✅ Yes | ❌ No – it's advisory |
| Checks Safety | ✅ Basic Safety Systems | ✅ Plus engine, oil, filters, etc. |
| Fixes Problems | ❌ No repairs included | ✅ Maintenance & preventative care |
| How Often? | Every 12 months (by law) | Every 12 months or 12,000 miles |
💡 Do I Need Both?
Yes. An MOT makes sure your car is road legal. A service ensures your car is healthy and reliable.
Skipping services can lead to:
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Higher repair bills
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Lower fuel economy
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MOT failures
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Shorter engine lifespan
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Reduced resale value
🔁 Save Time: Combine Your MOT and Service
At Andrews Car Centre, many of our customers choose to combine their MOT and service in one visit. It’s:
✅ More convenient
✅ Often cheaper than booking separately
✅ Easier to plan into your schedule
📍 Book Your MOT & Service in Lincoln
Need one or both? We’ve got you covered:
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MOTs for all makes & models
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Full & interim servicing
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Transparent pricing and expert care
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Local, trusted garage on Dixon Street, Lincoln
👉 Call today or book online with Andrews Car Centre – keeping Lincoln drivers road-ready and worry-free.
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