Number of private parking tickets predicted to reach record high

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June 10, 2026

Over 90 percent of drivers want private ‘Parking Charge Notices’ to be renamed to avoid confusion

The total number of private parking tickets issued during 2025-2026 is expected to reach a record level.

Analysis by the RAC predicts that some 17 million private ‘Parking Charge Notices’ will be included in the latest government figures when they are published next month.

Car park management companies have been issuing an average of 4.3 million parking tickets per quarter, according to RAC research.

This could lead to the already record total of 14.4 million tickets handed out to drivers in 2024-2025 being exceeded by almost three million.

Notably, this figure only applies to ‘Parking Charge Notices’ issued by private parking management companies, not to ‘Penalty Charge Notices’ issued by local authorities.

Drivers unaware of parking ticket rules

The RAC also found that almost half of all drivers are unaware of the distinction between parking tickets from private companies and those issued by local authorities.

Although 44 percent of those questioned thought there were differences, 50 percent felt confused by the fact that both are regularly referred to as ‘PCNs’.

A Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) is issued to drivers by local authorities and Transport for London due to a parking offence on public land.

This is a genuine fine that drivers have to pay, and is backed by law. However, independent tribunals allow the fine to be contested.

By comparison, a Parking Charge Notice is issued by a private company if a driver is said to have breached terms and conditions when parking on private land.

Instead of a fine, it is technically an invoice for breach of contract. Appeals are available through the two private parking trade associations.

A deliberately misleading approach?

The RAC’s research found that 91 percent of drivers think the private ‘Parking Charge Notice’ term is confusing, due to sharing the same ‘PCN’ acronym as local authority fines.

Almost a third (31 percent) argued that private companies should use the term ‘Private Parking Charge’ (PPC) instead, with 19 percent suggesting ‘Private Car Park Charge’ (PCPC).

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: “Drivers are clearly confused by the PCN acronym, which is concerning as they are very different in terms of consequences. A PCN sent by the council is a fine and must be paid, whereas a Parking Charge Notice, issued by a private car park operator, is an invoice for alleged breach of contract.

“The fact both can be put on drivers’ windscreens in identical bright yellow colour doesn’t help. We suspect they are deliberately designed to look very similar to a council penalty charge notice”.

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Youngest ‘Gen Z’ drivers most likely to get road rage

By

John Redfern

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June 9, 2026

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Last year, new data showed younger drivers were twice as likely to have aggressive or reckless behaviour a factor in collisions

New research reveals that younger British drivers are more likely to get angry behind the wheel than older motorists.

Some 16 percent of Gen Z drivers – i.e. those aged between 18 and 28 – said they experience road rage multiple times a day behind the wheel. In addition, 15 percent of Millennials (now aged 29-44 years old) reported the same.

By comparison, only 11 percent of Gen X drivers, aged from 45 to 60, admitted to having several incidents of road rage per day.

The oldest drivers in the survey, Baby Boomers, were the least likely to get angry. Just five percent of those aged between 61 and 79 said they had multiple road rage experiences each day when driving.

Older drivers keep calm and carry on

The survey of 1,000 UK motorists was commissioned by Saga Car Insurance. It found this pattern was continued when incidents of road rage were expanded to include weekly occurrences.

Some 60 percent of Gen Z drivers, and 59 percent of Millennials, said they experience road rage at least once a week.

This compares to 37 percent of Gen X drivers and 32 percent of Baby Boomers who say the same.

For younger generations of motorists, traffic was identified as the biggest non-driver-related cause of road rage. From Saga’s survey, 38 percent of Gen Z, and 40 percent of Millennials, ranked it among their top three causes.

Older motorists were more likely to be made angry by poor road surfaces. Almost half of Gen X and Baby Boomers respondents put them among their top three triggers.

Tips to avoid the ‘red mist’ taking over

The research by Saga follows the publication of the latest Department for Transport (DfT) data on reported road casualties, highlighting the serious implications of road rage.

Younger drivers involved in road traffic collisions were twice as likely as older motorists to have ‘being aggressive, dangerous or reckless’ recorded as a contributing factor.

Almost a quarter (24 percent) of young drivers in serious or fatal collisions saw these behaviours play a part, compared to just 12 percent for other motorists.

Lisa Murphy, a registered therapist, said: “When we’re in our cars, we can develop a perceived sense of safety because we’re in a familiar setting and we’re separated from the outside world by the windscreen. The problem is, we’re not as safe as we think.

“In the short term, learning some basic relaxing breathing techniques or other physical relaxation methods can be useful. Remember: prevention is better than cure, so practice these daily. Don’t just pull them out when you’re already too far gone and the ‘red mist’ is rising.”

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New Mk1 Ford Escort RS makes world debut at London Concours

By

John Redfern

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June 9, 2026

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A bespoke 2.1-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine endows the Mk1 RS with 330hp, and revs to an awesome 10,000rpm

The first new Ford Escort Mk1 RS in 50 years has been revealed at London Concours. Built by Boreham Motorworks, the reborn fast Ford is more than just another restomod.

Instead, Boreham Motorworks has built a genuine continuation of the original Escort RS. It uses continuation chassis numbers and is officially licensed by the Ford Motor Company.

Unveiled at London Concours 2026 – taking place from 9-11 June at the Honourable Artillery Company in London, EC1 – the new car has a direct lineage to the classic Escort Mk1 RS, but draws upon five decades of development.

As such, while the Boreham Motorworks Escort may look like the original, almost every component beneath the surface has been re-engineered and improved.

Not simply another restomod

Boreham Motorworks Escort Mk1 RS London Concours

Being a continuation means that the Boreham Motorworks Mk1 RS does not rely on a chassis being donated by an existing Ford Escort.

A brand new steel body is made for each example, developed especially to support the huge performance of the new Mk1 RS.

A custom-designed subframe sees the Escort’s wheelbase extended by 30mm, although the proportions of the two-door saloon remain unchanged.

Lightweight carbon fibre is used for the bonnet and boot panels, while the headlights and tail lights are enhanced LED versions of the Ford items. The exterior brightwork is fashioned from billet-machined aluminium and stainless steel.

Boreham Motorworks has developed the Escort’s chassis around a set of lightweight 15-inch alloy wheels, incorporating new coil springs and dampers. The brakes are also suitably beefed-up, with a traditional cable-operated handbrake retained.

All the way to 10,000rpm

Two versions of the Boreham Motorworks Escort Mk1 RS will be offered, starting with the Twin Cam model – a direct homage to the Alan Mann Racing-built motorsport engine of 1968.

However, the Boreham ‘Ten-K’ is the real attention-grabber, being a completely bespoke 2.1-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine.

Developed in-house by Boreham Motorworks, the Ten-K uses a 16-valve cylinder head with Formula 1-inspired port and valve geometry, belt-driven camshafts and individual throttle bodies. Lightweight internal components and a carbon fibre airbox are other highlights.

The result is an output of 330hp, with the Ten-K revving to a frenetic 10,000rpm. In a car weighing just 895kg, the Boreham Motorworks engine should deliver astonishing performance.

A five-speed dog-leg manual gearbox is standard for the Ten-K. It transfers power to a fully floating aluminium and titanium rear axle with a limited-slip differential.

A modern take on a classic interior

Designer Wayne Burgess has ensured the Boreham Motorworks Escort Mk1 RS looks equally special on the inside, with a philosophy based on ‘driver engagement and lightweight functionality’.

Carbon fibre is used extensively for the dashboard, door cards and rear panels. The latter can be combined with an optional racing helmet storage compartment.

New analogue dials are a reminder of the Escort’s classic origins. while the rest of the interior can be personalised to each individual customer’s preference. The seats, steering wheel and even the integrated roll cage can all be customised.

Mounted on the centre console are a pair of rally chronographs, developed with Breitling, as a nod to the Escort’s formidable rallying heritage.

‘Giving enthusiasts what they expect’

Speaking at London Concours, Iain Muir, CEO of Boreham Motorworks, commented: “The public debut of the Escort Mk1 RS marks a hugely important moment for the programme, because it demonstrates how far the engineering and development process has progressed since the original reveal.

“What matters most to us is ensuring the car delivers exactly what enthusiasts expect the moment they get behind the wheel. Lightweight engineering, immediate response, usable naturally aspirated performance and genuine driver connection have guided every decision throughout development.”

Only 150 examples of the Boreham Motorworks Escort Mk1 RS will be manufactured, and cars can be configured in either right- or left-hand drive. Prices start from £295,000 in the UK, or $400,000 for US-based customers.

Boreham Motorworks says it wants these cars to be driven, so each will come with a two-year, 20,000-mile warranty.

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New 2027 Dodge Charger goes big on customization

By

John Redfern

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June 8, 2026

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The 2027 Dodge Charger range begins with the Sixpack-powered R/T model, with 420 horsepower on offer

Dodge has revealed an array of new personalization options for the 2027 model-year Charger, with order books now open.

With both electric- and gasoline-powered versions of the Charger muscle car now available, Dodge is doubling down on customization.

Some 25 new factory-fit options have been added for the 2027 model, so there are no shortage of ways to make your eighth-generation Charger unique.

Mechanically unchanged for 2027, the Dodge Charger range kicks off with a 420 horsepower version of the 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo ‘Sixpack’ engine in the Charger R/T.

Alternatively, a High Output Scat Pack version of the six-cylinder Sixpack delivers 550 horsepower. The electric Daytona Scat Pack remains at the top of the pile, with 670 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.

Ways to customize your Charger

One of the new options for the 2027 Dodge Charger is Petrol Blue leather performance seats (pictured above), which are available for Scat Pack models.

Complete with ‘Digital Slash’ perforations and red stitching, they complement the existing choices of Demonic Red leather, or a black leather and suede combination.

Charger R/T and Scat Pack Sixpack models can now be ordered with a Satin Black painted hood, which expands on the existing Satin Black hood patch option.

There are also various Mopar body graphics, with ‘Charger’ blade stripes and strobe stripes in various colors, plus classic muscle car dual body stripes.

Finally, Chargers fitted with the Brembo performance brake package can have their calipers painted in orange or black.

Electric Charger Daytona models are now equipped with a NACS charging port as standard. This allows them to use the Tesla Supercharger network without the need for an adapter.

An award-winning muscle car

Dodge’s expansion of customization options for the Charger comes after the muscle car collected the prestigious 2026 North American Car of the Year Award.

“The entire Dodge Charger lineup – from two-door and four-door models to the 420- and 550-horsepower Sixpack-powered R/T and Scat Pack, and the 670-horsepower Daytona – is now in production and arriving in dealer showrooms,” said Matt McAlear, CEO of Dodge.

“For 2027, we’re shifting into second gear. As the world’s only four-door muscle car with Sixpack-powered gas performance at its core, more interior color options, like new Petrol Blue seats, and new ways to customize straight from the factory, the Charger delivers what drivers demand: power, personalization and presence.”

Orders can be placed now through Dodge dealerships. The first completed 2027 model-year Chargers are expected in the third quarter of 2026.

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Over 4,000 UK motorists with 12 or more points are still driving

By

John Redfern

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June 8, 2026

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The ‘totting up’ process would typically see drivers banned once they have amassed 12 or more penalty points on their licence

A substantial number of speeding drivers are still being allowed onto UK roads, despite totting up enough penalty points for a ban.

The RAC made a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency), to investigate the scale of the problem.

Under the ‘totting up disqualification’ process, drivers who accumulate 12 or more penalty points on their driving licence should receive a ban of at least six months.

However, some 4,154 motorists currently have 12 or more penalty points on their driving licence due to speeding, but have still escaped a ban.

Incredibly, there are 117 drivers who have amassed more than 20 penalty points for speeding, plus two drivers who have a shocking 43 and 45 points respectively.

Despite seemingly being such habitual speeders, they have been allowed to keep driving as a ban would cause ‘exceptional hardship’.

Public support for stronger speeding action

The RAC is supporting the Stop Excessive Speeders campaign. This calls for courts to be granted powers to force offenders to have speed-limiting technology fitted to their vehicles.

In practice, this could mean the mandatory fitment of Intervening Intelligent Speed Assistance (IISA) to the cars of speeding drivers.

This technology prevents the car from exceeding the speed limit, except in pre-defined emergency override situations. Any instances of this are logged to be reviewed later.

Research by the RAC, ahead of the government’s recently published Road Safety Strategy, found that 86 percent of UK motorists back the idea of new measures to tackle persistent speeders.

This is even higher than the 82 percent of motorists who support the use of mandatory ‘alcolocks’ for convicted drink-drivers.

A need to tackle habitual speeders

RAC head of policy Simon Williams commented: “It’s very concerning that so many repeat speeders have been allowed to carry on driving despite amassing 12 points or more, which would normally lead to them losing their licences. And for very good reason, given that speeding is one of the leading factors in the most serious collisions on our roads.

“A better solution for people like this who have demonstrated a compelling need to the court to be allowed to continue driving would be for them to have devices fitted to their vehicles that prevent them speeding again. Our research also identifies strong support among drivers for those who speed excessively to have to have these devices.”

A spokesperson for the Stop Excessive Speeders campaign added: “Excessive speed remains one of the leading causes of death on our roads, and the public clearly recognises the need for action. What our research shows is that people instinctively understand the link between tackling dangerous driving and saving lives.

“Intervening Intelligent Speed Assistance is a practical, proportionate solution, targeting repeat offenders while allowing the vast majority of drivers to go about their daily lives without disruption.”

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Hot Wheels Legends Tour returns to find UK’s most creative cars

By

John Redfern

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June 6, 2026

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This year, judging of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK will take place as part of CarFest at Silverstone in August

The Hot Wheels Legends Tour is back for 2026, and searching for the UK’s wildest modfied car to be transformed into a die-cast model.

Now in its ninth year, the latest Hot Wheels Legends Tour will be the biggest to date, with a total of 19 countries now involved.

The hunt is now on for the UK’s most amazing cars, to find a contender that can challenge the rest of the world.

The global winner will see their car transformed into a Hot Wheels 1:64-scale model, and put on sale for enthusiasts and collectors.

For 2026, the UK leg of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour will be part of the CarFest event at Silverstone.

On the hunt for the UK’s craziest cars

Entering the Hot Wheels Legends Tour requires owners to upload three photos of their car, along with a description of what sets it apart, to a special Hot Wheels website.

As in previous years, judges will be looking for a car that truly stands out from the crowd, making it unique when rendered in die-cast form.

The UK has a history of producing strong Hot Wheels Legends Tour contenders. These include Lee Johnstone’s Volvo P1800 drag racer, which won the overall competition in 2021.

Last year, an extreme E21-generation BMW 3 Series was chosen to represent the UK in the European Hot Wheels Legends Tour regional final.

Although it did not win the ultimate prize, with a rally-inspired Fiat 126 chosen instead, the BMW still demonstrated enormous creativity.

Live judging at CarFest in August

Entries for the 2026 Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK are now open, and will remain so until 3 July 2026. The live final will take place on 29 August 2026, forming part of the CarFest event at Silverstone circuit.

A surprise celebrity judge will join presenter Nicola Hume, a Hot Wheels designer, to reveal the UK champion. This car will then progress to the online European finale.

The UK winner will also receive a trip for two to Los Angeles, California, the home of Hot Wheels, later in the year.

“The Hot Wheels Legends Tour is all about celebrating builders who dream big and aren’t afraid to break the mould,” says Ted Wu, global head of design for vehicles at Mattel.

“This will be our seventh stop in the UK and it never disappoints. The creativity, craftsmanship and garage spirit on show always makes the judging incredibly tough and that’s exactly how it should be. We can’t wait to see which finalists make it to Silverstone.”

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Supercar shock! New 1,001hp Audi Nuvolari breaks cover

By

John Redfern

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June 5, 2026

0

The dramatic Audi Nuvolari combines a mid-mounted 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine with three electric motors

Audi has revealed a surprise hybrid-powered supercar, with dramatic styling and a name that pays tribute to its motorsport heritage.

Launched ahead of this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix, the Nuvolari is named after Tazio Nuvolari, who drove for Auto Union (which eventually evolved into Audi) during the 1930s.

As Audi returns to grand prix racing with its new Formula 1 team, the company is keen to demonstrate the innovation that competing in the sport can bring.

The result is a 1,001hp limited-production supercar, with design inspired by Auto Union racers and thoroughly modern engineering underneath.

“With the Audi Nuvolari, we are accelerating technological progress,” said Audi chairman Gernot Döllner. “It shows what is possible when the focus is on technology, performance and execution through teamwork – and when we achieve progress together.”

Inspired by Auto Union race cars

If the narrow front grille of the Nuvolari looks familiar, that’s because Audi first showed it on the Concept C sports car, revealed last year. The concept was directly inspired by the Auto Union Type C racer, as driven by Tazio Nuvolari.

The rest of the Nuvolari looks more conventional by supercar standards, It’s styling has more than a hint of Lamborghini Temerario – a car that contributes many of its mechanical components.

However, Audi has added its own unique elements via the use of active aerodynamics, as seen on the company’s Formula 1 cars. Downforce, drag and aero balance can all be adjusted, depending on the driving conditions.

A deployable rear wing is controlled via a rotary dial on the steering wheel, or can be left in automatic mode. The steering wheel also features a button for the Drag Reduction System (DRS), used to help reach a maximum speed of 217mph.

When it came to developing the Nuvolari’s aerodynamics, Audi asked its current F1 drivers, Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg, for their feedback.

Equal to a Bugatti Veyron

Audi has chosen ‘Titanium’ paint for the Nuvolari, a colour previously seen on the Concept C – and also used on the company’s Formula 1 cars.

Beneath the signature hue are weight-saving carbon fibre body panels, mounted on a proven Audi Space Frame chassis.

This lightweight construction, along with the huge horsepower developed by the hybrid powertrain, should should give the Nuvolari an incredible power-to-weight ratio.

The Lamborghini-sourced twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine develops 800hp on its own, and is capable of revving all the way to 10,000rpm.

It is matched with three axial flux electric motors, which boost total output to a colossal 1,001hp – exactly the same as a Bugatti Veyron.

Quattro four-wheel drive is electrified

Two of the electric motors are mounted on the front axle, creating a new, electrified version of Audi’s famous Quattro four-wheel drive.

Branded as Quattro Predictive Ride, the Nuvolari can distribute torque rapidly between its front and rear axles, and between individual wheels. All this happens in collaboration with the active aerodynamics, too.

Deploying all its power and torque sees the Nuvolari accelerate from 0-62mph in 2.6 seconds, then reach 124mph in just 6.8 seconds.

A 7.3kWh lithium-ion battery stores electrical power, with energy boost and recuperation modes available.

Ceramic Pro brakes use 10-piston fixed calipers with 420mm brake discs on the front axle. At the rear, four-piston calipers are paired with 410mm discs.

The carbon brake discs are said to be derived from those on Audi’s Formula 1 car. They can apparently handle deceleration loads on a par with the Nuvolari’s racing cousin, too.

Nuvolari will arrive in 2027

On the inside, Audi has taken a minimalist approach to the Nuvolari, following design influences used in the Concept C.

Forget huge screens, as there is only a simple digital instrument panel and a relatively small central display, plus a smattering of physical buttons. You might also spot the large paddles for the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Compared to recent Audi models, it makes the interior of the 1,001hp supercar look pleasingly calm and focused.

Audi only plans to build 499 examples of the Nuvolari, with production set to commence in the first half of 2027.

Prices will start from £500,000 making the successor to the much-loved R8 a substantially more expensive supercar. However, hypercar levels of performance and exclusivity are guaranteed.

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New BMW M2 xDrive brings all-wheel drive to baby M car

By

John Redfern

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June 4, 2026

0

The 2026 BMW M2 xDrive boasts the same 480hp as its rear-wheel drive counterpart, but races from 0-62mph in a quicker time

BMW has added the option of all-wheel drive to its smallest M model, enhancing its appeal for many UK drivers.

Until now, both generations of BMW M2 had been rear-wheel drive, with tyre-shredding drifting ability very much on the agenda.

Fear not, though: the M2 xDrive has not abandoned its tail-happy roots. The new model still sends torque to the rear wheels until they cannot handle any more.

Only then will the xDrive system’s multi-plate clutch divert torque to the front axle, helping restore traction to slingshot the M2 down the road.

As a result, the new M2 xDrive could be a practical choice for UK enthusiasts who want to enjoy their sports car in all weathers.

New Ignite tech boosts efficiency

Powering the new M2 xDrive is the same 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six as found in the regular model, producing 480hp and 443lb ft of torque.

The engine features BMW’s patented new ‘Ignite’ technology, with a pre-chamber combustion process to boost efficiency. Set to be added to all six-cylinder M models, the new system allows the petrol engine to meet forthcoming EU7 emissions regulations.

Improved efficiency should also mean a reduction in fuel consumption, which BMW believes will be welcomed by track day drivers who can keep lapping circuits for longer.

BMW’s eight-speed automatic transmission is standard for the M2 xDrive. Only the rear-wheel-drive model can be equipped with a six-speed manual ‘box.

Going sideways is still allowed

The added traction of xDrive brings an extra benefit to the M2, reducing the time it needs to accelerate from 0-62mph.

Compared to 4.0 seconds for the rear-wheel-drive M2, the xDrive-equipped version takes just 3.7 seconds to complete the benchmark sprint.

Top speed remains capped at 155mph, with the optional M Driver’s Package upping this to 174mph for greater bragging rights.

As with any modern M car, drivers are able to customise the M2’s powertrain to their personal preferences. One option in the M Setup menu allows the xDrive system to be set solely to rear-wheel drive, with the Dynamic Stability Control switched off.

BMW notes that this ‘unlocks a driving experience of remarkable purity’ – and probably one optimised for lurid tail slides, too…

Bringing ‘traction and precision’ to the M2

Alexander Karajlovic, vice president for development at BMW M GmbH, said: “The new BMW M2 with M xDrive opens the next chapter in the story of an icon. It breaks new ground in blending the strong, uncompromising character of the BMW M2 compact high-performance sports car with the superior traction and precision of M xDrive for the first time”.

Prices for the BMW M2 xDrive will start at £74,255 in the UK, representing an increase of just over £2,600 versus the rear-wheel-drive coupe.

New for the 2026 M2 is the option of the bold BMW Individual Borusan Turkish Blue paint, which adds an extra £4,385.

The BMW Configurator has already been updated for the M2 xDrive, so you can start planning your ideal specification before production gets underway in August 2026.

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The bear facts: what you need to know about Fiat’s Grizzly SUV

By

John Redfern

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June 4, 2026

0

The new Grizzly SUV and Fastback will be larger than the existing Grande Panda, aimed at C-Segment rivals

Fiat has revealed the first images of its Grizzly SUV and Grizzly Fastback coupe, due to be launched later this year.

Set to become the largest models in the Fiat range, the Grizzly name is a deliberate play on the classic Panda lineage.

Being larger than the Fiat Grande Panda elevates the Grizzly into the C-SUV segment, pitching it against popular family SUVs such as the Dacia Bigster.

The Grizzly Fastback is the arguably more stylish coupe variant, with a design that has hints of Peugeot 3008 in its sleeker silhouette.

In order to make the Grizzly competitive in this hard-fought marketplace, Fiat says its new model will cost from around £25,000.

Bearing down on the SUV market

Fiat will build the Grizzly twins on the Stellantis ‘Smart Car Platform’ (SMP). This is already used by various other vehicles across the group’s brands, including the Citroen C3 Aircross and reborn Vauxhall Frontera.

The SMP also allows for a host of different powertrain options. As a result, we expect the Grizzly and Grizzly Fastback to be available in petrol, hybrid and fully electric guises.

Both Grizzly models measure less than 4.5 metres in length, but Fiat says that versatility is central to their appeal. The pair ‘set a new benchmark in practicality, offering exceptional interior space and a best-in-class boot capacity’, claims the official press release.

Bringing families back to Fiat

Olivier Francois, CEO of Fiat, commented: “Grande Panda marked the return of Fiat to affordable family movers. With Grizzly and Grizzly Fastback, we’re completing this lineup with two vehicles designed around different needs, different lifestyles, but sharing the same idea: smart, accessible and rooted in Fiat’s design DNA.

“Together, they bring Fiat back at the heart of the family mobility market with a complete and coherent lineup”.

Fiat plans to launch the Grizzly and Grizzly Fastback in the second half of 2026, with a focus on sales in Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.

Stellantis is also expected to launch versions of the Grizzly SUV and Fastback in North America, following a recent update to investors. The Stateside models will likely be sold under the Chrysler brand, and be known as the Arrow and Arrow Cross.

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Car MOT failure costs rocket to record levels

By

John Redfern

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June 4, 2026

0

Getting your car through its MOT test could be expensive, with the price of repairs said to have spiralled in recent years.

New research reveals that, even as MOT pass rates are increasing, the average cost to fix vehicles that fail the test has risen dramatically.

The analysis comes from car service booking platform BookMyGarage, which analysed thousands of invoices for cars tested at its partner garages across the UK.

BookMyGarage checked invoices from 2022 to 2025, covering full calendar years, allowing it to track the upward trend in the cost of MOT repairs.

For cars that fail their MOT when tested, owners can now expect to pay up to 70 percent more than they would have in 2022.

Failure rates down, but costs are up

According to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the overall failure rate for MOT tests currently stands at 28.1 percent. Just over a decade ago, in 2013-2014, two fifths (40 percent) of vehicles failed their annual inspection.

Motorists retaining their cars for longer, in part due to cost-of-living concerns, is one potential contributor to the rising cost of MOT repairs.

The average age of Britain’s 36 million cars now stands at just over nine years, exposing drivers to growing repair bills. BookMyGarage’s own data found that 49 percent of MOT bookings made on their platform resulted in advised or mandatory repairs for the oldest cars.

The research also uncovered that the average bill for failed MOT fixes has climbed to £425 for cars in the 6-8 year age bracket.

Even for cars as young as 3-5 years, the average repair cost is now £332. This includes the MOT test itself, which is capped at £54.85.

Older cars are potentially a factor

One nationwide garage chain now has an average MOT invoice of £227: a 70 percent rise since 2022.

At smaller regional garage networks, which may focus on older vehicles, the typical cost of an MOT needing extra repairs has jumped from £122 in 2023 to £183 in 2025: a 50 percent increase.

Karen Rotberg, co-founder of BookMyGarage, said: “Repairs are not optional after an MOT failure, so many of Britain’s motorists are caught in an inflationary spiral that shows no sign of easing.

“With more drivers holding onto their cars for longer, garages are inevitably seeing more vehicles reach the stage where parts naturally wear out.

“Most people don’t know exactly what their car needs and that’s where transparency is key. Our advice is to carefully compare trusted local garages, understand their pricing and read real reviews before making a choice.”

Has your car ever failed its MOT, and how much did you spend in fixing it? Let us know in the comments