AN INCREDIBLE 86% of drivers think their car will pass its MoT test first time and without the need for any remedial or service work.

A further 62% of British drivers fail to put any money aside to help with the cost of an MoT|and any repairs that result|from the legally required annual test.

The research by Asda Money found that only 7% of drivers think their car will fail its MoT. This is despite figures from VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) that show 40% of cars fail the MoT initially.

Younger drivers are more likely to have a car that will fail its MoT as 27% of those in the 20-29-year old age group drive a car that is nine years old or more.

Another cause of MoT failures and unexpected bills is drivers not taking care of their cars and avoiding servicing for fear of being landed with a large bill.

Kirsty Ward, head of Asda Money, said: “Paying for an MOT and all the necessary repairs means the cost of running a car can rocket.

“With the recent Asda Mumdex report revealing that 86%5 of mums are worried about the cost of living, drivers need to make sure that they are putting a bit of spare cash aside for their MOT where possible and the potential costs of repairs on top of this.

“There is nothing worse than having a huge bill sprung on you when you least expect it. By taking preventative measures such as regular services as well as replacing the tyres and brake pads, this can avoid the need for a hefty bill after an MOT.”