When your car fails its MOT, it can be stressful and confusing. Should you repair it, appeal the decision, or is scrapping the better option? At Birmingham Autobreak Recycling, we speak to hundreds of motorists every month facing this exact situation.
This guide explores what happens after a failed MOT, how to assess whether your car is worth fixing, and why scrapping your vehicle might be the most practical and financially sound choice in Birmingham.
Every vehicle in the UK over three years old requires an annual MOT test. It checks the roadworthiness, emissions, and safety of your car. Common reasons for failure include:
While some of these issues are minor and cheap to fix, others can be complex and costly, especially on older vehicles. Replacing parts like catalytic converters, brake systems, or suspension components can lead to bills running into the hundreds or even thousands of pounds. That’s why so many Birmingham motorists consider scrapping when faced with these kinds of expenses.
Additionally, as emissions regulations continue to tighten, older diesel cars are more likely to fail their MOT due to NOx emissions or particulate filter issues. These types of repairs can be extremely expensive, and often not worth pursuing if the car is over 10 years old or already has other age-related issues.
If the failure points are minor and the cost of repair is reasonable, fixing the vehicle may make sense. Your mechanic can retest it quickly after repairs. It’s worth obtaining multiple quotes for repair work, especially for older cars where the cost of parts and labour may quickly exceed the car’s value.
If you believe your car failed unfairly, you can appeal through the DVSA. However, this is rare and involves time and effort. The appeal must be made within 14 days, and the car must not be repaired during that time. It’s a lengthy process and not always successful.
When the cost of repairs outweighs the vehicle’s market value or the car has high mileage, scrapping is a sensible choice. You save money, avoid future repair bills, and get paid for the car.
At Birmingham Autobreak Recycling, we offer instant scrap car quotes, free collection, and fast payments across Birmingham and Solihull. Scrapping your car is often quicker, simpler, and more financially beneficial than trying to repair or resell it.
If your car:
Then scrapping can save you time and money.
Let’s say your 12-year-old car fails its MOT due to suspension issues and excessive emissions. The garage estimates the total repair bill at £750. The car’s value if it passed the MOT would be about £600. In this case, spending more than the car’s potential resale value on repairs isn’t financially viable.
We see many customers who try to repair a failing car only to face more bills months later. If you’re unsure, get a quote from us first and weigh the options.
We are a fully licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), which means we operate under strict environmental and legal regulations. Your car is depolluted, dismantled, and recycled responsibly, reducing environmental impact and recovering usable materials.
These steps ensure that the car is taken off the road legally and that you’re no longer responsible for it. Birmingham Autobreak Recycling ensures all documents are handled correctly so you don’t face unexpected issues down the line.
Can I drive a car that has failed its MOT?
Only if you’re driving to a pre-booked MOT retest or repair garage. Otherwise, it’s not legal or safe.
How much is my car worth after MOT failure?
We base scrap value on weight, model, and current scrap metal prices. Even if it doesn’t run, your car still has value as scrap. You can get a free quote online.
Do I need the V5C logbook to scrap my car?
It’s helpful, but we can scrap your car without it if you provide ID and proof of ownership. We’ll guide you through this.
How long does collection take?
We can usually collect your vehicle the same day or within 24 hours. Our team works across Birmingham and the West Midlands daily.
Is scrapping better than selling privately?
If the car has failed its MOT, selling privately can be harder and slower. Scrapping is quicker, doesn’t require advertising, and pays instantly. Most buyers will walk away once they hear the vehicle has no valid MOT.
Can I scrap a car with outstanding finance or insurance claims?
No. You must settle any outstanding finance or remove it from insurance claims before scrapping. Once cleared, we can help you recycle it.
A failed MOT doesn’t always mean the end of the road, but it often signals it’s time to move on. If repairs are too costly or your car is nearing the end of its life, scrapping with a trusted Birmingham-based company is often the most efficient and rewarding solution.
At Birmingham Autobreak Recycling, we make the process quick, legal, and financially worthwhile. We offer top prices, same-day collections, and handle all the paperwork so you don’t have to.
Get your instant quote today or call us for more information. Let us help you turn a failed MOT into a smart decision.
