How to Get a Repair During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Ellie Dyerbrown, 3 years ago

5 min read

News
Advice

There are a lot of questions around how Coronavirus and the subsequent lockdown effects drivers. So we've answered the most common ones below and will update this guide if additional information becomes available.

Frequently Asked Questions:
Are garages open during the Coronavirus Pandemic?
Can I still drive my car during the Coronavirus Pandemic?
How do I keep my car safe and clean?
Do I still need to get my car MOT tested?
How do I make sure my car is still roadworthy & safe to drive?
Can I still get my car serviced during the Coronavirus Pandemic?
Our Commitment To Driver & Garage Safety

Are garages open during the Coronavirus Pandemic?

As of the government announcement on 24th March garages are one of a select few UK retail services which can remain open if sensible.

Read the full document from the Government on who can remain open during lockdown: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/further-businesses-and-premises-to-close

Can I still drive my car during the Coronavirus Pandemic?

Yes, you’re still allowed to use your car, but the government has recommended this should be only for one of a number of approved reasons. Including travel to and from work for key workers. All travel should be essential, such as to visit the supermarket for necessities.

Visit https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus for more information from the Government.

How do I keep my car safe and clean?

There are multiple surfaces in vehicles that need special attention. Give the car a thorough clean inside and out but make sure to prioritise the areas that are most frequently touched. Notably: the door handles, gear stick, dashboard and controls, seats and armrests, seat belts and the handbrake and most importantly the steering wheel Wear gloves while driving to minimise the spread of germs after cleaning.

Do I still need to get my car MOT tested?

Owners of cars, vans and motorcycles have been granted a six-month exemption from MOT testing from 30 March, the Department for Transport has conﬁrmed. However, your vehicle does sill need to be deemed roadworthy to be used and you still face prosecution if it is found to be unsafe.

For further information on MOT extensions, the government have provided this document: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-mots-for-cars-vans-and-motorcycles-due-from-30-march-2020

How do I make sure my car is still roadworthy and safe to drive?

Although MOT’s have been granted extensions, aforementioned your car still needs to be roadworthy. For this assurance and to avoid the risk of prosecution we would recommend a vehicle health check.

Many of our garages offer these for free, and it will provide you with reassurance whilst making any essential travel during the Covid-19 lockdown period.

Can I still get my car serviced during the Coronavirus Pandemic?

Yes, you’re still allowed to get your car serviced if you require it during this time for essential travel (e.g. if you are a key worker). However, you must still adhere to social distancing guidelines to prevent the spread of Covid-19.