LifestyleMotoringCarsAccording to the consumer website, drivers could bag a cheaper MOT using the booking hack13:52, 20 May 2026Updated 13:52, 20 May 2026Drivers could get cheaper MOTs using an expert-approved booking method. The tip was shared for drivers by MoneySavingExpert (MSE), Martin Lewis' consumer finance website.‌In a guide, one of the team's consumer experts revealed that motorists could find cheaper tests at 'hidden' test centres. The guidance explained that visiting lesser-known council MOT centres could help drivers find a better deal, as they typically charge lower MOT fees. MSE said: "Many councils have their own MOT testing stations for their own vehicles, such as buses or vans.‌"By law these test centres (though not taxi or Crown stations) must be open to the general public. But they generally only carry out tests and don't do repairs (always check), so they're ideal if your car's in pretty good condition and likely only has minor repairs needed."‌However, drivers should consider their options carefully, and it could be better to go elsewhere if they think their car could need serious repairs. MSE explained: "Under rules introduced in 2018, if your car receives a 'dangerous' fail you won't be able to drive it away until it's fixed, which means you might end up having to pay for it to be transported to get the necessary repairs done."Several MSE fans shared success stories with the platform, with a happy driver praising their council MOT centre for offering 'efficient and cheap' MOTs. Someone else said they would highly recommend the method to other drivers, provided they expect their car to pass.‌As Gov.uk explains, the MOT must be completed at an approved test centre. The guidance says: "Only centres showing the blue sign with three white triangles can carry out your MOT."Motorists could be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT. As per Gov.uk, MOT test stations can't charge more than £54.85 for a standard car and £29.65 for a standard motorcycle.For many drivers, the cost of repairing 'fails' can quickly add up. There are some pre-MOT checks that drivers can complete to ensure their vehicle has the best chance of passing. The RAC explains: "If anything does need a quick fix before your test, running through a checklist can help you keep your renewal date intact."‌The RAC shares several recommendations on its website. The list includes the following checks:Keep the inside and outside of the car cleanClean the number platesCheck the condition of the windscreen wipersCheck that all lights are working properlyCheck tyre pressure and tyre tread (using 20p test)Top up fluid levelsCheck that the horn works properlyEnsure all mirrors are intact and secureArticle continues belowThe RAC added: "The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in your car’s V5C logbook should match that marked on your car’s bodywork." More advice is available on the RAC website.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Martin LewisMoney MattersSave MoreSave moneyLife hacksExpert AdviceCars