Book an MOT in Northampton

Why choose the RAC for your MOT in Northampton?

At the RAC, we’ve got over 125 years’ experience in helping UK drivers. We offer MOTs from RAC Approved Garages to make sure you’re getting an honest, reliable inspection at a fair price. Our trusted mechanics will make sure your vehicle is operating safely and effectively. You’ll get results you can rely on, at a price you can afford.

We also offer a full and interim car service in Northampton.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

MOT

An MOT test checks if your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. Cars over 3 years old must pass an MOT test every year.

Lights and signalling

Check lights, indicators, and reflectors.

Brakes and tyres

Test brakes and examine tyre condition.

Steering and suspension

Inspect for wear and proper operation.

Exhaust and emissions

Measure emissions and check the exhaust system.

Visibility

Check mirrors, windscreen, wipers, and washers.

RAC Mobile Mechanic under the wheel arch of a white car

Full service

Get your car MOT-ready. Book a service with an RAC Mobile Mechanic. We’ll make sure your car’s safe and working correctly. Depending on your vehicle, it can take up to an hour and a half, but not to worry – we come to you. We recommend getting serviced every 12 months or 12,000 miles.

Road test

Before and after the service, we’ll run a general road test to detect if anything feels or sounds unusual and to make sure there aren’t any new problems.

Under the bonnet

- Battery and charging system check – Cooling system check – Engine oil and filter change – Fuel filter check – Air filter replacement – Power steering fluid top-up

Exterior checks

– Steering and suspension – Wheels and tyres – Brakes – Front and rear lights – Exhaust – Mechanical parts – Wipers – Wiper fluid top up

Safety feature checks

– Horn – Seatbelts – Seatbelt mounts

Full diagnostic check

We’ll plug into your onboard engine management systems using our specialist diagnostic computer. We’ll then run a full engine management system check, looking for electrical issues and any problems flagged up by the electric control units on the engine, the power steering, transmission, sensors and more.

And it’s not just MOTs that we do in Northampton

Repairs
Whatever you need, we’ve got a repairs service you can rely on. Looking to get your brake pads and discs fixed at home? RAC Mobile Mechanics come to you. Need more in-depth work done at a garage? Choose an RAC Approved Garage to get quality work at honest prices.

Car Service
MOT coming up? Not to worry. Get ready with a full service from RAC Mobile Mechanics. We come to you at work or home, so you can relax as we service your car in your driveway. We recommend getting serviced once a year, or every 12,000 miles.

Nearby RAC Approved Garages

View all garages

ADA AUTOCARE LTD

ADA offers a wide range of repairs, servicing, MOT’s and more. Call us to see how we can help.

Unit 4 Whites Yard, Horsley Road, Northampton, NN26LJ

IN'n'OUT Autocentres Northampton - Brackmills

At IN’n’OUT Autocentres we offer fixed prices MOTs and Servicing for any make and model of car with no hidden extras. We are proud to be a ‘Which? Trusted Trader’ so we are really a garage you can trust. We also have a 5 Star Trustpilot reviews rating. We provide OEM parts and 12 months warranty on all parts and servicing. We only use premium Castrol oils in all servicing. Our services are all completed ‘while-u-wait’ so you have never have the inconvenience of losing your car for the day. You can watch your car as it is being worked on through the viewing window or sit back and relax in our clean and comfortable customer lounges with FREE Wi-Fi and coffee and read the latest magazines. Check out our latest reviews and BOOK NOW!!

Brackmills Business Park, Caswell Road, Northampton, NN47PW

In Town Automotive, Bosch Car Service

In Town Automotive is one of the largest independently owned vehicle servicing and repairs garage in Northampton. Not only are we RAC approved and a Foxy lady approved garage, we are committed to delivering a high standard of service, friendly advice and top quality parts. We are based in Northampton and cover all surrounding areas including: Kellmarsh Daventry Towcester Wellingborough Our team of expert technicians provide a range of garage services for all makes and models including: Diagnostics MOTs Full & part servicing Clutches Cambelts Tyres Here at In Town Automotive we are growing from strength to strength, so for a competitive price and a quality service every time, post your job on whocanfixmycar.com today!

Unit 6, Main Road, Rothersthorpe Rd Ind Est, NN4 8ES

Motamec Ltd

Here at Motamec Ltd we are a dynamic car and van mot and servicing centre situated on Moulton Park Industrial Estate in Northampton. Our team are dedicated to making sure that you the customer receive a first class service at affordable prices. We will only provide honest advice along with complete transparency as to why any work is required to be carried out on your vehicle. Our expertise lies in MOTs, vehicle maintenance, servicing and repairs, ensuring that our customers are constantly updated whilst their vehicle receives top-notch care. We aim to be the trusted choice for automotive care in the community hence our company slogan "trust the Motamec difference.

Unit 4 Encon Court, Owl Close, Moulton Park Industrial Estate, Northampton, NN36HZ

Able Assist Ltd

Workshop Facilites Modern workshop Tyre Supply, fitting and balancing Mobile Tyres 24/7 Aircon Regas service Diagnostics Servicing & Repairs MOT Preparation 24 hour Roadside Assistance & Recovery Call Today for a quote

Able House, Unit 1, 50 Bradfield Road, Wellingborough, NN84HB

Kennetts Auto Solutions Ltd

At Kennetts Auto Solutions, we are committed to delivering exceptional customer service and the highest standards of workmanship, ensuring your car receives the care it deserves. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. We pride ourselves on being approachable, knowledgeable, and dedicated to working closely with you to keep your vehicle running smoothly. From routine servicing to advanced diagnostics, we’ve got you covered. We have a true passion for our trade and continually invest in state-of-the-art equipment and ongoing staff training. This commitment keeps our workshop at the forefront of vehicle technology, allowing us to diagnose and repair faults efficiently—saving you time and money. Led by garage owner Steve, an IMI Master Technician with advanced Electric and Hybrid vehicle qualifications, our team combines over 25 years of industry experience with cutting-edge expertise. Whether it’s maintaining a family car or handling complex repairs, you can trust us to provide unparalleled service and get you back on the road quickly.

Unit 119, Leyland Trading Estate, Wellingborough, NN81RT

NMJ Service Centre

NMJ Service Centre provides professional vehicle servicing, repairs, and maintenance. Our team of qualified technicians is dedicated to delivering high-quality workmanship and exceptional customer care for all. We utilise advanced diagnostic equipment to accurately identify and resolve any issues, ensuring your car performs reliably and safely. From routine oil changes and brake inspections to more complex repairs, we are committed to keeping your vehicle in optimal condition. Trust us for dependable and efficient automotive solutions.

Nmj Towcester Road, Old Stratford, MK196AQ

F W Abbott Limited

Welcome To FW Abbott Vehicle & DAF Service Centre Our History Established in 1963 we pride ourselves in providing a wide range of customers with a more personalised and dedicated service to ensure that their vehicles are kept on the road and maintained to the highest standards. Our Facilities Our purpose-built workshops provide 9 bays where we carry out full inspections, servicing and repair right up to the MOT presentation by our team of highly experienced DAF trained technicians. The latest diagnostics tools are available to ensure that vehicle faults are detected quickly and a full range of DAF parts are on hand to rectify the problems and get your vehicles moving again. We pride ourselves in the standard of workmanship we provide and will discuss your individual requirements to understand your needs more thoroughly. All our customers, big or small, are equally valued. We aim to build a winning partnership with you based on shared experience and professionalism.

8 - 10 Orion Way, Kettering, NN156NL

Bridge Autocare

Bridge Autocare offers quality vehicle maintenance services in Milton Keynes. We have a team of skilled technicians who only use the latest diagnostic tools and equipment. Our technicians receive ongoing training to deliver the highest quality of service possible.

3 Bridgeturn Ave, Wolverton, Milton Keynes, MK125QL

PSJ Auto Care

At PSJ Autocare, we believe vehicle care should be straightforward, honest, and built around you. We’re proud to be independent, approachable, and fully equipped for modern motoring, as well as being an RAC Approved Garage. With over 20 years serving the local community, we’ve earned a reputation for no-nonsense repairs, clear communication, and a level of service that keeps customers coming back. No matter if it’s a routine service, a clutch replacement, or a tricky electrical fault – it’s not just about fixing cars. With clear quotes, no hidden extras, and workmanship that holds up long after you’ve left the forecourt, it’s about earning trust, one job at a time. Whether you drive a city runaround or a high-performance model, we bring the same care, precision, and pride to every job.

Unit 11 Potters Lane, Kiln Farm, Milton Keynes, MK113HE

MOT FAQs

How early can I book an MOT?

An MOT lasts for a year. The date it runs out is shown on your most recent MOT pass certificate. You can book an MOT near you up to one month (minus a day) before the due date and still keep the same renewal date.

For example: if your MOT runs out on 16 September, the earliest you can MOT your car and keep the same renewal date next year is 17 August. You can book an MOT earlier than this. But if you do, the renewal date will change to one year (minus a day) from the date your vehicle passed this MOT.

To find out when your MOT is and how early you can book it, use the GOV.UK tool.

When do I need to book an MOT?

A car needs an MOT every year once it’s three years old (four years in Northern Ireland). Then it needs to be retested every year on the anniversary of its last MOT. Cars under three years old don’t need an MOT.

Once you’ve passed, you’ll get an MOT test certificate showing the date of the test and the expiry date. You can get your car retested up to a month (minus a day) before it expires and keep the original renewal date.

If your MOT is due, get a quote from an RAC Approved Garage near you and book your MOT online today.

What happens if I fail my MOT?

If your car fails its MOT:

You’ll get a Refusal of MOT Certificate (VT30). You can only drive away if your current MOT certificate is still valid and no ‘dangerous’ faults were listed in the MOT. You will need to have your car repaired and retested.

Your Refusal of MOT Certificate will explain why your car failed its MOT test and explain what needs to be fixed for it to pass. Ask your local garage whether you need a full or partial MOT retest, as how much you pay will depend on the state of your vehicle.

If you get your car tested, repaired and retested at the same test centre within 10 working days, you usually won’t have to pay an MOT retest fee. Sometimes there will be a partial retest fee to pay. Just ask your garage for more information.

If you drive a car that’s failed its MOT because of a ‘dangerous’ fault, you can be fined up to £2,500. You can also be banned from driving and get three points on your licence.

To avoid failing your MOT test, maintain the condition of your car in between MOTs by booking a car service.

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