If you run a heavy goods vehicle, keeping it road-legal is not optional. An HGV MOT is a legal requirement, and understanding the cost helps you plan and budget with confidence. So, how much does a HGV MOT cost?
The answer depends on the type of vehicle and the number of axles, but prices are set by the DVSA, so you know exactly what to expect.
HGV MOT Costs at a Glance
The DVSA sets the maximum fees that authorised test facilities can charge for HGV MOTs. At FW Abbott in Kettering, our prices reflect these rates with no hidden extras.
Motor Vehicle Testing Fees
| Vehicle Type | MOT Cost |
|---|---|
| 2-axle HGV | £151.00 |
| 3-axle HGV | £173.00 |
| 4+ axle HGV | £197.00 |
| PSV vehicle (e.g. coach) | £163.00 |
| Brake test (per axle) | £15.00 |
| Steam clean (per axle) | £30.00 |
| Headlight check | £20.00 |
Trailer Testing Fees
| Trailer Type | MOT Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-axle trailer | £41.00 |
| 2-axle trailer | £114.00 |
| 3-axle trailer | £124.00 |
| Brake test (per axle) | £15.00 |
| Steam clean (per axle) | £30.00 |
These prices cover first tests, annual tests, and prohibition clearances including full inspections. Trailers are tested separately from the towing vehicle, so factor this into your total budget if you run a full rig.
What Does an HGV MOT Include?
An HGV MOT is a thorough safety and compliance check carried out by DVSA-authorised testers. It covers all the critical systems that keep your vehicle safe on the road.
You can expect the following to be inspected:
- Brakes and braking performance
- Steering and suspension
- Tyres and wheels
- Lights, signals, and reflectors
- Emissions and exhaust systems
- Windscreen, wipers, and visibility
- Cab structure and driver controls
At FW Abbott, all testing takes place through our Authorised Testing Facility (ATF) lane in Kettering. This means your vehicle is tested to the same standard as a DVSA testing site, giving you full confidence in the result.
How Often Does an HGV Need an MOT?
Most HGVs need their first MOT one year after registration. After that, annual testing is required to keep the vehicle legally on the road. Missing a test deadline can result in fines, prohibition notices, and in serious cases, the loss of your operator’s licence.
More Than Compliance
Staying on top of your HGV MOT schedule is not just about compliance, it also protects your drivers and other road users. Regular testing catches problems early, reducing the risk of costly breakdowns and unplanned downtime.
Should You Book a Pre-MOT Inspection?
A pre-MOT inspection is a smart step before your official test date. Our technicians check your vehicle against the same criteria used in the full test, flagging any issues that could cause a failure. Fixing these in advance is almost always cheaper than dealing with a retest and the downtime that follows.
Roller Brake Testing
We also offer roller brake testing as a standalone service, which is useful for checking brake performance between scheduled MOTs. At £15.00 per axle, it is a low-cost way to stay ahead of any problems.
Why Choose FW Abbott for Your HGV MOT in Kettering?
FW Abbott has been serving operators across Northamptonshire for decades. We are a VOSA-authorised testing facility, meaning our tests are officially recognised and fully compliant with UK regulations. Our team of specialist HGV technicians understands that every hour off the road costs money, so we work efficiently to get your vehicle tested and back in service as quickly as possible.
We work with fleets of all sizes, from single owner-drivers to large logistics companies. Alongside MOT testing, we offer a full range of HGV services including servicing, repairs, and DAFaid roadside assistance, making us a one-stop workshop for your fleet.
Ready to book your HGV MOT? Contact the team at FW Abbott in Kettering to arrange a date that works for your schedule.
9-10 Orion Way, Kettering, NN15 6NL