Can You Sell a Car Without an MOT?

Selling a car without a valid MOT isn’t illegal, but it does make the process more complicated. 

If you’ve found yourself in this situation, it’s worth understanding the pros, the cons, and your options.

It’s important to ask yourself whether or not it might be easier (and potentially more profitable) to put the car through its MOT first.

What Is an MOT, and Why Does It Matter?

The MOT is a mandatory safety and emissions check. It is required for most vehicles over three years old in the UK. 

Without it, a car can’t be taxed or legally driven on public roads. Except when heading to a pre-booked MOT appointment.

The test checks a range of components, from brakes, lights, and tyres to steering and suspension. 

At the end of a test the car will receive either get a pass, a pass with advisories, or a failure if faults are found.

If the MOT has expired or the car has failed, that doesn’t mean you can’t sell it. However, it does change the dynamics of the sale.

Can You Legally Sell a Car Without an MOT?

Yes, you can. There’s no law preventing the sale of a car without an MOT. 

However, you must:

• Disclose the MOT status honestly to the buyer
• Ensure the car isn’t driven on public roads (except to an MOT test)
• Arrange collection (or ensure the buyer does). This could be via trailer or recovery vehicle for example.

Important: It’s illegal to drive a car without a valid MOT unless you’re taking it to a pre-arranged test. 

So, the moment you put the car up for sale, make sure you're clear about how it can be collected.

What Are Your Options?

1. Get the MOT First

If the car is roadworthy or only needs minor fixes, putting it through an MOT can increase its value. Also making it far easier to sell. 

Buyers are more confident when they see a recent MOT pass. You’ll be more likely to get closer to your asking price.

If you need an MOT soon, you can now book your MOT online with Blackcircles.com. Choosing a time and garage and test centre that suits you. 

2. Sell Without the MOT

You can still advertise your car on private marketplaces, to dealers, or through car-buying platforms. Just be aware that:

• Buyers will likely expect a discount
• You’ll have a smaller audience 
• Scrap or salvage dealers may be more likely to make an offer. At a lower price

If you’re not interested in putting time or money into the car, this might still be the simplest route.

Pros and Cons of Selling Without an MOT

Pros:

• Quicker to list. As there is no waiting for repairs or test slots
• No upfront cost for servicing or fixing issues
• May appeal to buyers looking for a project or bargain

Cons:

• Reduced value
• Harder to sell, due to a lack of interested buyers
• Buyers must arrange collection. Which can be offputting
• Potential for longer wait before finding a buyer

Part-Exchanging or Scrapping?

Some dealerships accept MOT failures in part exchange. However, the offers will reflect the condition. 

Alternatively, you can contact an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) to scrap the vehicle. For this you may receive a small payment and will be issued with a Certificate of Destruction.

If the car is still mechanically sound, though, you’ll often get a better deal by getting it roadworthy first.

What’s the Easiest Route?

For many sellers, especially when the car is still in decent shape, the simplest and most profitable step is to book an MOT.

Addressing any minor issues before selling.

Not only does this reassure buyers, but it will also widen your potential audience.

If you want to avoid the hassle of ringing around garages, you can now book an MOT or car service online with Blackcircles.com in just a few clicks. 

MOT and Selling Your Car

Selling a car without an MOT is legal, but it’s rarely the easiest option. 

Unless your vehicle is beyond repair or you need it gone urgently, getting an MOT first often pays off. Both financially and in terms of convenience.

Whatever route you choose, just be transparent, stay within the law, and weigh up whether investing in a quick MOT might make life a lot easier.