Can Car Repair Garages Open During Lockdown?

The current lockdown has caused a lot of confusion and uncertainty for car owners. With MOT exemptions not available, drivers must pass a new test if they want to use their cars. But can you still get your car serviced or repaired during lockdown or increased restrictions? The good news is that car service departments and garages can remain open during the lockdown, so you should be able to repair your car. However, it is important to do your homework before choosing a repair shop.

Research the reputation of the shop online and ask friends and family for their opinion. You can also find out if they have any ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified mechanics. If your car remains in use during the lockdown, you must continue to pay VED (road tax) when it expires or, if you plan to stop driving altogether, consider placing your car in SORN. And even if the older car incurred a couple of repair bills, they would likely cost you less than the drop in value you'll experience with the newer car. The previous closure of car dealerships and the broader impact of the lockdown on people's lives saw a devastating drop in car sales, with new registrations dropping 97 percent at the peak of the lockdown.

But with car service departments and garages still open, drivers can still get their cars serviced and repaired during this difficult time.