Northern Ireland motoring news, real data, market trends, car culture and features worth reading.
Not every great drive needs a destination. From the Antrim coast to the Mournes, Sperrins and Fermanagh, these are NI routes where the road is a large part of the reason to go.
Read full article →Historic vehicles can qualify for annual-testing exemption, but age alone is not the only condition and major modifications can affect eligibility.
Read full article →Several OZEV home and landlord chargepoint grants continue until 31 March 2027, with the maximum support increased to £500 for eligible installations.
Read full article →Before judging paintwork or listening for engine noises, verify the car’s identity, MOT history, tax status and recall position.
Read full article →Northern Ireland has additional documentary requirements when taxing a vehicle at a Post Office, including paper insurance evidence and MOT/TEC evidence.
Read full article →A clean private sale is not just about getting paid. The keeper record, private plate, tax position and handover all need to be handled properly.
Read full article →Your rights can be very different depending on who is actually selling the car — and some traders may try to appear as private sellers.
Read full article →A pass is not a clean bill of health. Northern Ireland vehicle test certificates can list defects that did not cause a failure but still need attention.
Read full article →Category B car-test appointments are released three months ahead on the first working day of each month, with extra opportunities appearing through cancellations and added capacity.
Read full article →Waiting times vary by test centre, so changing centre and checking the booking system for released appointments can get some motorists tested sooner.
Read full article →A keyless car can be unlocked and started while the fob is still inside your home. PSNI advice focuses on blocking the signal, protecting the OBD port and adding visible physical security.
Read full article →The legal rule and the temporary enforcement position are not the same thing. DVA says drivers facing testing delays must book the earliest available appointment and keep the car safe, insured and roadworthy.
Read full article →The UK Electric Car Grant applies in Northern Ireland, with approved cars priced at £37,000 or below eligible for discounts of £1,500 or £3,750 depending on sustainability criteria.
Read full article →Electric cars are no longer exempt from vehicle tax. For 2026/27, newer EVs move onto the £200 standard rate and expensive models can face an additional £440 a year.
Read full article →You can still start tracing an old car-finance agreement even if the paperwork is gone. The FCA points motorists to bank records, dealers, credit files and its lender directory.
Read full article →The FCA says you can complain directly to your lender for free, and using a claims firm can reduce any eventual compensation by a substantial fee.
Read full article →A Class IV car MOT costs £38 and the standard retest fee is £29.50, but miss the 21-day application window and you can end up paying for another full test.
Read full article →New drivers under 24 face a six-month night-time passenger rule under GDL, but immediate family and some accompanied journeys are exempt.
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