Who is responsible for keeping a car roadworthy?

Roadworthiness is not outsourced to the MOT examiner or garage. nidirect stresses that vehicle condition must be maintained between tests.

If a defect appears—such as a damaged tyre, failed light, brake problem or serious warning light—it should be addressed rather than waiting for the next MOT.

Drivers should also adapt checks to how the vehicle is used; high mileage, heavy loads and winter conditions can justify more frequent inspections.

For 'Who is responsible for keeping a car roadworthy?', treat the issue as a current roadworthiness matter rather than something to leave until the next MOT. A valid MOT does not protect you if the vehicle develops a defect afterwards.

Check the current source for 'Who is responsible for keeping a car roadworthy?' before acting if the relevant rule, policy, fee or eligibility has recently changed. Keep any official confirmation or reference number produced by the process because it can help resolve a later query. This note is specific to answer 480.