Many UK drivers don’t consider common MOT scams when booking their car for the annual test. However, knowing the signs is critical for saving time and money. 

In this blog, we’re gathered the top seven MOT scams and strategies to avoid them to ensure your next test goes without a hitch. Let’s get into it.

7 Common MOT Scams UK Drivers Should Know

 a few bad actors use common MOT scams to take advantage of unsuspecting drivers. 

The best way to avoid MOT scams is to know the signs of deception. Here are seven tricks you should be aware of.

1. Not Performing the Test Well (Or At All)

First, we’ll start with an outright criminal scam — not performing the test correctly or at all.

Some garages charge ‘bargain’ MOT prices much lower than the standard cost. This might seem great initially, but low costs mean the mechanics will either rush the test, miss out on checks, or, in some cases, not perform the MOT.

Remember, MOTs are there to ensure your car's safety—not just for a certificate. Plus, if the garage is caught, 

, and you might face a fine or points on your licence.

So, if the fee looks too good to be true, it might be a sign to stay away!

Next is unfair failure, one of the most common MOT scams. This happens when the

For example, an untrustworthy garage might replace your bulbs with broken ones or damage your wipers. Experienced mechanics know how to do this quickly and subtly. 

They’ll then charge you for these repairs, even if you know they weren’t broken before arriving at the garage.

Fake MOT certificates are one of the worst frauds on the list, as these are easy to fake and can land you in trouble if you don't realise the garage has handed you an unofficial document. 

Since 2011, MOT certificates are no longer official documents but simple papers (VT20/VT30) that are easy to fake. The real MOT record is stored online on a government database. 

 or getting a test, never rely on a paper 'certificate' provided by the seller. 

Instead, get the vehicle identification number (VIN) and test number from the VT20/VT30 document, and then use the official MOT checker to verify it. This ensures the MOT is genuine and avoids potential fraud.

While there are legitimate costs for parts and labour, some garages exploit this by inflating prices or exaggerating the time needed for repairs.

Always ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, compare quotes from multiple garages, and consider getting a second opinion if a price seems unusually high.

test meters to show falsely high pollution levels, pressuring you into paying for unnecessary repairs. This scam often targets drivers who may not be familiar with vehicle emissions standards.

and engine. Use a trusted garage with good reviews, and if you suspect bad behaviour, get a second opinion or retest elsewhere.

Poor garages may also exaggerate small issues as serious faults, leading to you paying more for repairs you don’t need. A key example of this is 

To confirm accuracy, check your advisory notes carefully and compare them with MOT test standards. It’s also helpful to know whether your car has any minor faults before arriving at the garage, this way, you have a better understanding of any

If you leave the vehicle at a test centre for repairs and it’s retested within ten working days,

Some garages do not tell you about the free retest option, which can lead to paying unnecessarily for another full MOT test.

To avoid this, know your rights—drivers are entitled to a free partial retest at the same garage for most failed items. Always ask for this retest if your car fails, and ensure repairs are completed promptly to meet the 10-day window.

Alongside knowing the common MOT scams, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to ensure high-quality service. These include:

as soon as possible. This will save other drivers from falling for scams.

Avoiding MOT scams comes down to staying informed and vigilant. Hopefully, this blog has given you a helpful starting point to protect yourself and your vehicle when your next test rolls around. 

Split the cost of MOT payments with Bumper

MOT costs and last-minute repairs can set you back. But that’s where Bumper comes in. 

You can split the cost of MOTs and service plans into manageable, interest-free monthly payments with Bumper.

Find out more about our MOT service plans here 

How to Avoid MOT Scams in the UK

We're please to announce Bumper has secured a £2 million investment from 

This is the first investment from London-based Salica and follows funding earlier this year from Suzuki Global Investments and Marubeni Ventures.

The additional funding comes at an important time for the business as it marks the millionth customer using its digital payment platform and its first acquisition, with the recent purchase of AutoBI, the provider of business intelligence tools for car retailers. 

Bumper has also been recognised as one of the fastest growing European startups in 2024 in the newly published 

James Jackson, Co-Founder and CEO, said: “Attracting high-profile investors of the calibre of Salicia Investments vindicates our approach to delivering a seamless digital payments platform for dealers in the UK and across Europe. 

“This year Bumper will facilitate £300m worth of car repairs, with one million customers having now used our services to fund over £0.7bn worth of aftersales bills. Salicia’s investment will empower us to achieve the ambitious growth plans we have set for 2025.”

Jemma Bruton, Managing Director of Salica Investments, said: “We are delighted to support Bumper, a highly successful fintech which is transforming the way car repairs are paid for through its pioneering digital solutions. This investment underscores our confidence in the business, its leadership and its growth potential.”

Bumper secures £2m funding from Salica Investments

Bumper obtiene 2 millones de libras de Salica Investments

Small cars aren’t your only option if you’re ready to go green. Electric SUVs are here to provide ample space and a more powerful driving experience without the extra emissions!

However, don’t just pick the first car you see. Make sure you select an SUV that meets your (and your passengers’) needs. 

In this blog, you’ll find the thirteen best electric SUV cars, their key features, and approximate prices. Ready? Scroll down to get the lowdown 

Grab your notepad! From sleek SUVs to family-friendly vehicles, here are the best electric SUV cars you need to know. 

We used Auto Trader for the most up-to-date prices, this article was last updated on November 12, 2024. 

First on the list is the Volvo EX30. This electric SUV is a top pick, offering an 

 swift performance, and easy, comfortable driving, starting at £32,850. 

On the inside, you’re met with a modern minimalist design. Plus, most controls are accessible through the touchscreen, making it easy to navigate.

While the rear seats and boot aren’t the largest, the EX30’s overall quality makes it a fantastic choice. If you know you need lots of space, consider viewing this model in person to get a realistic scope of the car.

 However, if you’re looking for classic BMW-style luxury and a spacious drive, it’s worth considering the investment. 

This vehicle has one of the most sophisticated interiors on the list. With luxurious materials, impeccable build quality, and tech-rich dual curved screens, it’s a delight to drive and experience. 

Alongside a swanky interior, the iX offers up to 380 miles of range and is ideal for long trips. And for power seekers, the iX M60’s 619 hp can hit 0-60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, delivering a thrilling drive.

The Korean brand Genesis is slowly gaining more popularity within the UK, especially with the Genesis GV60 electric SUV car. 

This extremely quiet vehicle has a generous range of approximately 321 miles, allowing you to drive for hours without stress. It also boasts fast charging, as a 10 to 80% top-up takes as little as 20 minutes. 

To top it all off, the car has an attractive interior and an impressive infotainment system. The only drawback is that the boot and rear space are smaller than other options on this list.

If you like the look of the famous Tesla Model 3 but want more space and an SUV-like drive, the Tesla Model Y could be a match for you.

This spacious five-door, five-seat model boasts a tech-filled, minimalist interior with extra rear headroom and a light, airy feel thanks to its panoramic roof. 

Want more speed? The top Performance version thrills, hitting 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, while even the Long Range model completes the sprint in under five seconds. 

With a range of up to 315 miles, it’s both practical and exciting—a perfect blend of style and performance. 

Everything you’d expect from a Tesla vehicle!

The Hyundai Kona Electric isn’t the largest electric SUV, coming in at around 4.4 metres in length. But don’t scroll away! This model is surprisingly spacious and has an impressive electric range. 

Other highlights of the Kona Electric include plenty of legroom for occupants and luggage, a 466-litre boot space, a user-friendly dashboard, and light steering. 

However, some drivers may not find the drive as enjoyable as others on the list. So, if drive feel is your priority, it might not be the SUV for you.

Calling anyone looking for a family car! The Electric Renault Scenic is here to transform the school run into a stylish affair.

With 545 litres of boot space, a five-star Euro NCAP 

 and a range of up to 379m miles (with the largest battery size), the Scenic can assist on all occasions. Plus, drivers boast that the Scenic is comfortable over bumps, which is ideal if you’re transporting little ones. 

The only drawbacks include poor rear visibility and a more basic interior style.

Experience a modern fusion of sports performance, sleek estate car aesthetics, and SUV-level functionality with the Kia EV6. 

The base models of this car aren’t the fastest, but they make up for their speed with a 328-mile range and lots of high-tech features, such as an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, front and rear door storage, and rain-sensing front wipers.

This car is spacious and feels undoubtedly modern. The downsides? It has smaller boot space than other options.

Like the look of the Kia EV6, but aren’t sure if it’s for you? Well, take a moment to check out the Kia EV9 — a larger, three-row electric SUV car designed for families. 

 five doors, and a battery range of up to 349 miles, it’s worth the investment if you want more space and practicality. 

Other features include a modern interior, fast charging, touchscreen navigation, eCall system, and wireless mobile phone chargers.

However, some drivers complain that the car is too loud at motorway speeds.

When you think of Smart cars, does the image of a small, city car pop into your mind? Smart is known for their pint-sized vehicles, but the Smart #1 offers an SUV-sized alternative!

Like other Smart cars, the #1 has an undeniably cool look and a modern interior. It also boasts space for four passengers and a battery range of up to 273 miles. It's not the longest, but it's nothing to scoff at, either!

The boot sits at 313 litres, which is enough for luggage and daily drives, but if your priority is an SUV with ample space, you might need a larger model.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the second electric SUV car from the brand on this page, and for good reason! 

The Ioniq 5 has a battery range of up to 354 miles, two large high-resolution screens, and an attractive futuristic design. Overall, the exterior and interior are made from high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and 

 However, a few buttons and switches on the interior feel cheap.

Want the frills of the Ioniq 5 with extra speed? There’s also a ballistic 641hp N high-performance 

The Audi Q4 e-tron offers up to 330 miles of range, a comfortable ride, plenty of rear seat room, and a 

However, its interior is solid but not particularly exciting. Not ideal if you’re imagining a swanky cabin experience.

You should also note that not all models have parking and reversing sensors. If these are non-negotiable, make sure you look at the specification before buying!

 Enyaq may not be the most well-known electric SUV car. Still, it offers a comfortable and smooth ride with a spacious interior that stands out, especially compared to more basic competitors.

The cabin features high-quality materials, 

. Its sleek and understated design, with sharp lines and slim headlights, steers clear of the over-the-top futuristic look found in some rivals. 

With a range of up to 345 miles in the Coupe version, it’s an excellent option for long-distance travel. Road trip, anyone?

The Ford Mustang Mach-E ushers legendary Mustang performance into the electric era, offering a practical yet stylish interior and a solid driving range of up to 372 miles—a respectable number for any EV. 

Inside, you can expect a large vertical touchscreen, with intuitive menus and sharp graphics. The cabin is spacious, featuring ample front storage and decent rear headroom, despite the sloping roofline. 

Although the ride can feel a bit firm over bumps, the Mach-E compensates with thrilling handling, making it one of the most fun electric SUVs on the market. 

Electric SUV cars offer a perfect blend of practicality, sustainability, and performance, with long driving ranges, spacious interiors, and lower running costs. So, if you’re interested in these eco-friendly picks, this is your sign to go for it!

 offers zero-interest financing on car repairs — including the best electric SUV cars!

 who provide expert electric SUV car repairs to ensure your car is road-safe and ready to go. 

Or get the lowdown on the latest news and other car guides. 

Your Guide To The Best Electric SUV Cars

Ready to fall in love with driving all over again? Small Mercedes cars offer a luxurious driving experience without the hefty price tag.

Whether you’re looking to easily navigate city streets or enjoy premium quality without overspending, this guide has you covered. Below, we’ll explore the top 8 smallest Mercedes models and why they’re popular with UK drivers.

Small Mercedes cars are typically A-Class, CLA, and GLA models. 

These options are more compact than other cars yet still offer the luxury Mercedes brand experience. 

 these cars are designed with efficiency in mind. They’re built with high-end materials and advanced technology and have a smaller environmental footprint. You get green points for driving one of these!

The smallest Mercedes cars can be driven anywhere. However, they’re most popular for city driving or with drivers who want an easy-to-maneuver vehicle. They’re also excellent for a high-end feel without a premium price tag or poor 

Unbeatable benefits of a small Mercedes car

Owning a small Mercedes car offers several inspiring benefits. Here are the key advantages:

From the iconic A-Class to the CLA, here are the 8 best small Mercedes cars you should consider. 

Are you a fan of the classics? The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a subcompact luxury car known for its sleek design, advanced technology, and refined interior. 

Since its 1997 debut, it has evolved from a compact MPV to a sporty hatchback and sedan.

in the A-Class, featuring helpful systems like Collision Prevention Assist and Lane-Keeping Assist. These advanced technologies make it a smart choice for drivers who want a compact car that’s both stylish and secure. 

You can find new models starting at £30,450.

The Mercedes A-Class Saloon is a luxurious compact car that blends stylish design, advanced technology, and impressive performance. 

What's the difference between the A-Class and A-Class Saloon? 

The Mercedes A-Class is typically a hatchback, offering a sportier, compact design, while the A-Class Saloon features a traditional sedan layout with a longer rear end. 

The A-Class Saloon is better if you're looking for a small Mercedes car but need a little more space or luxury associated with hatchbacks. 

As part of the A-Class lineup, the Saloon model provides an entry point into the world of Mercedes luxury. The sleek exterior features the iconic grille and striking LED headlights, while the interior boasts the latest infotainment and driver-assistance systems. With efficient turbocharged engines, it's perfect for small city streets and longer journeys. This model appeals to younger buyers and those looking to downsize without sacrificing elegance and comfort. 

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Saloons are available from £32,440.

Don’t leave the kids at home! The Mercedes-Benz B-Class is a compact family car that perfectly balances luxury, comfort, and practicality. 

With a spacious interior and high-quality materials, it’s designed for modern families who need that extra space. And, 

, the B-Class is larger than the A-Class Saloon.

The B-Class is fitted with the typical stylish Mercedes design and tech. You can also choose from various engine options, including petrol, diesel, and 

 to fit your lifestyle. Plus, advanced safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane-Keeping Assist ensure a secure drive. 

If you need a small car that caters to family life, the B-Class should be on your shopping list. New models start around £35,000. 

Buying your first luxury car is a memorable moment, especially when it’s the Mercedes-Benz CLA. This stylish subcompact coupe is perfect for those seeking performance on the road and lots of style while doing so. 

Launched in 2013, the CLA offers luxury and practicality, featuring high-tech infotainment and safety systems. With a range of efficient engines, this car delivers an enjoyable driving experience, making it an attractive entry point into the world of luxury automobiles.

Notable features include a classic Mercedes design, premium materials, and optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive for enhanced traction.

All of this is without the big price tag found on alternative Mercedes models. New models start at £32,290. 

Next up is the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake, a luxury compact estate that yet again combines stylish aesthetics with practical functionality. 

But what’s the difference between the Mercedes CLA and the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake?

The Mercedes CLA is a sleek four-door coupe, while the CLA Shooting Brake offers a more practical station wagon design with increased cargo space. Both models maintain luxury and performance, but the Shooting Brake is better for those needing extra room for passengers or luggage.

As such, this car is perfect for those needing extra boot space for hobbies or weekend getaways. It features a sleek roofline, spacious cargo area, and a range of engines, from fuel-efficient options to powerful turbocharged variants. 

On the inside, you’ll find premium materials and innovative tech, including the MBUX infotainment system. Nothing to complain about here!

The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake is available for £35,750. 

Need a compact car but dream about the ruggedness of an SUV? Meet the Mercedes GLA.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is a compact luxury SUV that blends performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, ideal for discerning drivers. Launched in 2014, it features a sleek design that balances SUV practicality with sporty coupe aesthetics. 

The cabin is plush with high-quality materials and advanced tech, including safety systems and infotainment options. The essentials for modern driving. Other notable features include off-road capabilities and a versatile cargo space of 435 to 1,430 litres.

With various engine choices and optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the GLA caters to adventure-seekers who want a robust yet compact vehicle. You can purchase a new model for £35,600.

Similarly to the GLA, the Mercedes GLB proves SUVs can come in compact sizes. 

The Mercedes-Benz GLB is another compact luxury SUV that sits between the GLA and GLC models. A key attraction to the GLB is its optional third-row seating, a feature you don’t see in many compact models. Seven seats? No problem here.

Like most Mercedes cars it caters to buyers seeking both luxury and practicality with a rugged yet stylish look and spacious interior.

The GLB also offers a range of efficient turbocharged engines for a smooth driving experience. It boasts high-quality materials and advanced technology throughout its cabin, notably advanced driver assistance features.

The Mercedes GLB is available for £39,150, depending on the version you choose. The most expensive models sit over 

Ready to make the switch? The Mercedes EQA (Electric) is here to prove the power of electricity without taking up too much space. 

Prepare to blend sustainability and that all-luxury Mercedes feel with the EQA. This small Mercedes car features a sophisticated interior, advanced driver-assistance systems, and an electric powertrain with a competitive range for city commuting and longer journeys. 

Other highlights include the interactive MBUX infotainment system, zero-emission driving, and fast charging capabilities. You won’t have to wait around with this speedy engineering. 

Overall, the EQA provides an excellent entry point into 

 while maintaining Mercedes-Benz's reputation for comfort and quality. 

However, this is the most expensive small Mercedes on the list, with prices starting at £49,750. 

Small Mercedes cars are an excellent way to downsize without sacrificing quality or power. Plus, there’s a vehicle for every need. 

Whether you want space for the little ones, your golf clubs, or a robust SUV feel, you’ll find something to admire. So, which caught your eye?

 offers zero-interest financing on car repairs — including for the smallest Mercedes cars!

 who provide small Mercedes car repairs to get you back on the road quickly. Not a minute is wasted.

Or keep exploring the latest news and other car guides. 

References - We used Auto Trader for the most up-to-date prices, this article was last updated on November 11, 2024.

The Ultimate List Of Small Mercedes Cars

La lista definitiva de Mercedes compactos

Die ultimative Liste kleiner Mercedes-Modelle

Bumper has been listed in the Sifted 250 — an annual list of the top 250 European startups with the highest percentage revenue growth over the past three financial years.

Backed by the Financial Times, the list consists of companies that are headquartered in Europe, founded in or after 2014, and have a revenue of at least €500k in the most recent financial year.

Together, the 250 startups on the list employ over 25,000 people across Europe, have generated revenues of over €6.8 billion, and raised over €70 million in capital.

Bumper ranked 50th in fintech and 216th overall, with 70 employees, a latest revenue of €13.9m and a compound annual growth rate of 96.87%.

Also included in the list is Buy Now Pay Later provider, Zilch. Digital bank, Allica, topped the list.

Earlier this year Bumper was included in the Financial Times list of fastest-growing top 1000 companies in Europe — a list of companies with the highest annual growth rate in revenue over the period 2019 and 2022.

Bumper Listed in Sifted 250: Europe's Fastest Growing Startups

Bumper aparece en Sifted 250: Las startups europeas de más rápido crecimiento

Small electric cars excel in urban settings, gliding through traffic with zero emissions and minimal noise. 

Most people think of EVs as large cars, but compact models offer a more practical solution for city driving — they're easy to park, agile, and efficient. 

Small electric cars also require fewer recharges, and their eco-friendly design helps reduce 

. Despite their size, many also deliver a comfortable, quiet experience on highways. What more could you ask for?

Below, you'll find the best small electric cars in the UK to help you find the perfect EV. 

, but its compact design qualifies it as a small electric car, making it ideal for city driving. 

Its elevated driving position provides excellent road visibility, while its manageable size allows for easy manoeuvring on tight streets. With an 

impressive battery range of up to 295 miles

, the EX30 strikes a balance between efficiency and performance, offering great value for money. Like many smaller EVs, it does come with a compact boot and rear seats. 

The Volvo EX30 is available new from £32,850, or used from £27,000.

Looking for a stylish, compact car that’s perfect for city streets? The Peugeot e-208 combines chic design with an upscale interior, making it both eye-catching and environmentally friendly. 

Available new from £28,290 or from £12,000 used, the e-208 delivers excellent value with a respectable range and a 

, too, taking just an hour for a quick top-up (adding up to 30 miles) or around 7 hours and 33 minutes for a full charge, which provides up to 225 miles of range.

Smart cars are renowned for their compact size, but the Smart #1 surprisingly combines a cosy footprint with a spacious interior. 

The cabin offers ample room for rear passengers, making it easy to install a child seat or accommodate friends comfortably. While the boot may be small, the Smart #1 provides a smooth and enjoyable ride, effortlessly absorbing bumps along the way. 

With a battery range of up to 254 miles, the Smart #1 is priced from £31,950 when purchased outright or from £334 monthly, with used models starting around £33,000.

The Kia Niro EV might appear to stretch the definition of a small EV, but it shares dimensions with many other top compact electric cars. 

This stylish small SUV is crafted for a comfortable driving experience, making it ideal for city commuting. With a 

, it provides excellent practicality for those looking to venture beyond just local errands.

The Kia Niro EV is available from £35,000 or used from £21,000. 

 small electric car, the BYD Dolphin is worth considering. 

Its design is quite simple, and the interior quality is mixed, but it’s well-priced at £24,600 and comes with decent features for the money. 

The Dolphin also offers a battery range of up to 265 miles. While alternatives may provide longer ranges, it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for an affordable EV for city cruising.

The Fiat 500e is a UK favourite for good reason. Its charming retro design, electric 

, and lively performance make it a standout choice in the EV market. 

With compact dimensions, it effortlessly navigates city streets, while its vibrant interior and exterior styling can brighten even the dreariest days. Although it may not be the most spacious or comfortable option, it shines as a zero-emission city car, boasting a battery range of up to 194 miles.

The Fiat 500e is available from £22,000 new or £12,000 used, making it an accessible choice for urban drivers.

Looking for the rugged SUV aesthetic without the bulk of a large 4x4? The Jeep Avenger Electric should be on your list. 

This compact electric car combines an outdoorsy look with a design perfect for city driving. With a battery range of up to 249 miles, it’s practical for 

 though it can be a bit noisy at higher speeds, making longer trips somewhat tiring. 

The Avenger Electric is available new for £24,700 or used for £21,000, offering a versatile choice for both urban and adventurous drivers.

Another UK favourite, the Vauxhall Corsa is a well-known model. But the Electric variant is also worth your time.

Its interior puts functionality over style, and it delivers excellent comfort over bumps and feels surprisingly quiet on the motorway. With a battery range of up to 252 miles, it's a match for daily use.

However, it’s wise to stick to lower trims—high-spec models approach £40,000, which isn’t the best value for money. Otherwise, it’s available new from £28,900 or from £15,000 used, making it an accessible option for many drivers.

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

How to Avoid MOT Scams in the UK

Bumper secures £2m funding from Salica Investments

Your Guide To The Best Electric SUV Cars

The Ultimate List Of Small Mercedes Cars

Bumper Listed in Sifted 250: Europe's Fastest Growing Startups

The 15 Best Small Electric Cars

How Much Does Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Cost In The UK?

How to check the service history on a car