Major body repairs can significantly change a vehicle’s structure, appearance, and safety features. Whether the work follows an accident or extensive corrosion repair, many UK drivers are unsure how this affects their MOT status. Understanding MOT requirements after major body repairs is essential to ensure your vehicle remains road legal and safe to drive.

What Counts as Major Body Repairs?

Major body repairs usually involve work that affects the vehicle’s structure or safety systems. This can include repairs to chassis components, crumple zones, pillars, sills, floors, or areas around seatbelt mountings. Replacement of large body panels following a collision may also fall into this category, particularly if welding or structural alignment is involved.

Cosmetic repairs such as minor dents or paintwork generally have little impact on MOT requirements, provided no safety-related components are affected.

Does a Vehicle Need a New MOT After Repairs?

A vehicle does not automatically require a new MOT simply because major repairs have been carried out. If the car already has a valid MOT certificate, it remains valid until its expiry date. However, the vehicle must continue to meet MOT standards at all times when used on public roads.

If the existing MOT has expired or is close to expiry, the car must pass a new MOT test before it can be legally driven again.

Areas Closely Checked After Body Repairs

During an MOT, testers will pay particular attention to areas commonly affected by major body repairs. These include:

• Structural integrity, ensuring repairs are sound and free from excessive corrosion
• Seatbelt mountings, which must be secure and correctly positioned
• Doors, bonnets, and boots, which should open and close safely
• Lights and reflectors, which may have been disturbed during repairs
• Sharp edges or insecure panels, which can result in a failure

Poor-quality repairs or visible defects can lead to an MOT failure, even if the car drives normally.

Airbags, Sensors, and Safety Systems

Modern vehicles rely heavily on electronic safety systems. After major body repairs, airbags, sensors, and warning lights must be fully functional. If an airbag warning light remains illuminated, the vehicle will fail its MOT.

It’s essential that any damaged sensors are properly recalibrated and tested before presenting the car for inspection.

Insurance Write-Offs and MOT Testing

If a vehicle has previously been declared a Category N or Category S insurance write-off and later repaired, it must still meet standard MOT requirements. While an MOT does not certify overall vehicle safety, it does confirm that the car meets minimum roadworthiness standards on the day of testing.

Drivers should also inform insurers about major repairs, as undisclosed damage may invalidate insurance.

Checking MOT Status After Repairs

Once repairs are completed, it’s sensible to review the vehicle’s MOT history and any previous advisories. This can help identify areas that may need extra attention. Drivers can check MOT details and upcoming test dates using CheckMot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does major body repair cancel an existing MOT?

No, a valid MOT remains in place until expiry, provided the vehicle stays roadworthy.

Will welded repairs affect my MOT?

Welded repairs are acceptable if carried out to a safe standard and free from corrosion.

Do airbag warning lights cause an MOT failure?

Yes, illuminated airbag or SRS warning lights will result in a failure.

Is a new MOT required after accident repairs?

Only if the previous MOT has expired or the vehicle no longer meets MOT standards.

How can I check past MOT advisories after repairs?

You can review MOT history and advisories online using CheckMot.