Driver stories and your up-to-date guide on running your car, written by Caura’s experts. Keep up to speed with charge changes, new zones, insurance tips and much more. 

Welcome to the Roadeo - find stories, insights and tips for drivers across the UK.  

An MOT certificate is an essential document in the UK that confirms your vehicle meets the minimum acceptable environmental and road safety standards. 

You will receive an MOT certificate upon completion of the MOT test which checks several car components like tyres, lights, seat belts, exhaust emissions, and more, to ensure the safety of the driver, passengers, and other road users.

This test is mandatory for all vehicles over three years old. If your car passes the MOT test, you'll receive an MOT certificate.

An MOT certificate plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of your vehicle, and is important for the following reasons:

Legal requirement: the law mandates all vehicles over three years old to have a valid MOT certificate. Driving without one could result in hefty fines

Vehicle insurance: insurance companies require you to have a valid MOT certificate if your vehicle requires an MOT. If you have an accident and your vehicle doesn't have a valid MOT, your insurance claim could be affected

Vehicle excise Duty (vehicle tax): you need a valid MOT certificate in order to pay your vehicle tax. This is very important since you can get fines of up to £1,000 for not paying your tax. So get your MOT done well in advance of your vehicle’s tax expiry

Vehicle resale: if you plan to sell your vehicle, a valid MOT certificate can increase its value as it reassures buyers about the car's condition

Losing your MOT certificate can be stressful, but the good news is that if you've misplaced your MOT certificate, getting a replacement is straightforward.

If you've lost your MOT certificate, don't panic. Here's how you can get a replacement MOT certificate:

Apply online and you can get a replacement MOT certificate for free. You’ll need your Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) and V5C number (11 digits that can be found in your vehicle logbook).

You can ask for a replacement MOT certificate from any MOT test centre. You’ll need to have the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) and V5C reference number, and the MOT test centre can charge you up to £10.

Remember, a replacement MOT certificate will have the same expiry date as your lost MOT certificate. It's not a way to extend the validity of your vehicle's MOT. If your vehicle is due an MOT, book now in Caura.

Booking an MOT in Caura is easy. Enter your Vehicle Registration Number, choose a centre that’s convenient for you, select your preferred dates and book in minutes. 

Don't wait until the last minute to get your MOT test done. Garages get booked up quickly, so booking early ensures you get your preferred date, and will give you enough time for any necessary repairs if your vehicle fails the MOT test.

If you’ve lost or damaged your MOT certificate, don’t panic. 

In this blog, we'll walk you through what an MOT certificate is, why it's crucial to have one, how to get a replacement MOT certificate, and how to book an MOT in Caura.

Need to replace a lost MOT certificate? Stay calm! This step-by-step guide covers all you need to know about getting a replacement MOT certificate. Ready to book an MOT? Book now in Caura in minutes

How to get a replacement MOT certificate | Caura

Download Caura to book your MOT via vetted garages nationwide, at exclusive pricing

Number plates, also referred to as licence plates or registration plates, are identifiers affixed to the front and back of a vehicle. These plates prominently display the Vehicle's Registration Number (VRN), enabling easy identification.

In the past, Great Britain and Northern Ireland had two different number plate systems in place. As of September 28, 2021, the UK shifted its identifier from GB to UK, applicable both in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The UK number plate system has been in place since 1903, introduced by the Motor Car Act. Since then, it has evolved through various systems, including the suffix and prefix systems, and the current system in place - the 'current style' system, which was introduced in 2001.

The UK number plate is made up of seven characters, divided into two sections. The first section comprises the local memory tag and age identifier. The second section is a string of random letters.

The first two letters show where the vehicle was registered. The first letter represents the region (for example ‘L’ for London), and the second corresponds to a DVLA local office.

We’ve attached a full list of local memory tags at the end of this blog, scroll down to view!

The two numbers following the local memory tag indicate the vehicle’s age, which is the six-month period in which the vehicle was first registered. New vehicles are registered every year in March, and September. 

The last three letters are random and provide a unique identifier for the vehicle.

An example would be ‘LA07 ABC’ where ‘LA’ denotes the car was registered in London, ‘07’ indicates the car was registered between March and August 2007, and ‘ABC’ is the unique identifier.

All number plates must be made from a reflective material and display black characters on a white background (front) or yellow background (rear). They must also follow the Charles Wright 2001 font, without any changes to the spacing between characters.

As of 2021, new cars are issued number plates that include a mandatory green flash to indicate that the vehicle is zero-emission. The green flash is not required on vehicles registered before this date even if they are zero-emission.

It is illegal to alter, rearrange, or misrepresent the characters on a number plate to form names or words, and you can face a fine of up to £1,000 if caught.

You can purchase personalised number plates either from the DVLA or from a private dealer. However, there are certain rules and regulations that drivers must follow.

Taking a private number off your vehicle, but keeping it (retention)

If you don’t want to use your private number anymore, you will need to apply to take it off your vehicle via the DVLA website. 

You’ll then get a V778 retention document that proves you still have the right to use the personalised number.

If you don’t wish to use your private number plate anymore, you can sell it online.

Remember, do not share a photograph or scan of the V778 document with anyone but the buyer. Someone else can get a hold of this and use it on another vehicle. 

Transferring a personalised plate from one vehicle to another

If you already own a personalised plate but want to put it on another vehicle, you will need to apply to take it off the original vehicle and fill another form to assign it to the new vehicle. 

The DVLA hosts number plate auctions about 5 times a year. The DVLA auctions 1,000 number plates on each day and drivers can bid in person, on the phone, in writing or online. 

The next 3 auctions taking place this year fall on the 21st, 22nd and 23rd of June in Chesterfield – save these dates if you’re looking to purchase some new number plates!

If you’re buying personalised plates from a private dealer, most will transfer the number plate to you.

If you want to keep or assign the number yourself, ask the dealer for the V778 form.

You will need to apply to take off your number plate if you want to:

When you take off a personalised number plate, the original reg plate is automatically assigned to your vehicle.

To take off your personalised number plate, your vehicle must be:

It costs £80 to apply, and can be either done online or by post. If the vehicle is not in your name, you will only be able to apply by post.

When you take off your personalised plate:

If you have AutoPay set up for London city charges, remember to cancel this for the old reg plate and set it up again for the new reg plate

After you apply to take off the number plate, you will receive:

A new V5C showing the vehicle’s replacement registration

A V778 retention document if the personalised number plate is in your name

If you are selling the private number plate, the V778 document will be sent to the new owner.

Yes. The first thing MOT testers perform during an MOT is a reg plate check. Research conducted by the BNMA found that nearly 4% of all vehicles fail an MOT due to faulty number plates. 

Here’s a list of 7 reasons that could cause an MOT failure due to a number plate:

Dirty reg plate that obscures the vehicle registration number 

Rear reg plate light is damaged or not working

Ready to book your MOT? Book now in Caura via over 6,000 independent and main dealerships and at exclusive pricing too!

In conclusion, number plates in the UK are more than just random combinations of letters and numbers. They hold significant information about the vehicle's registration and are governed by specific rules to maintain order and standardisation. 

Remember, if you are considering purchasing a personalised number plate, ensure that it adheres to DVLA regulations to avoid any unwanted penalties.

Number plates are essential for every vehicle in the United Kingdom and driving without a number plate is illegal. They are the unique identifier that links a vehicle to its owner and allows for identification by the authorities or in the event of a car accident. 

However, the UK's number plate system is not as simple as just assigning a random string of characters to a car. This blog will delve into the structure, history, and regulations surrounding UK number plates. Also find out what number plate faults will result in an MOT failure. 

Read our complete guide on UK number plates. Learn about their structure, history, regulations, how personalised number plates work, and how number plate faults can lead to MOT failures. Equip yourself with the knowledge you need to avoid fines and stay compliant on UK roads

UK number plates explained: structure, regulations, and impact on MOT tests | Caura

How long can you drive with the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) light on

Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) is the particles found in diesel engines that are responsible for the black smoke.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a device designed to remove diesel particulate matter from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine and plays a vital role in the health and efficiency of the engine. ­It’s a device designed to remove diesel particulate matter from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine. In a nutshell, the DPF filter aids in minimising the emission of harmful pollutants, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. 

A DPF works much like a regular filter: by trapping and storing the soot particles produced during the engine's normal operation. After the DPF has gathered a certain number of particulates, it automatically burns them off, a process known as "regeneration."

Legislation introduced in 2009 to help lower car emissions made DPFs mandatory in all diesel vehicles. 

When the DPF becomes clogged or blocked, an orange car warning light will appear on your car’s dashboard.

Primarily, the DPF light is designed to alert you when the DPF filter becomes too full of soot and can’t self-clean. This often happens when the vehicle is frequently driven for short distances or at low speeds, not allowing the DPF to reach the temperature required for a successful regeneration.

Additionally, a faulty DPF pressure sensor can also cause the light to illuminate. The DPF pressure sensor monitors the amount of soot in the filter, and if it malfunctions, it may incorrectly signal that the filter is full

Poor servicing and vehicle maintenance can also cause a DPF to become blocked. Generally, a DPF should last at least 100,000 miles if the vehicle is well serviced and looked after. 

Book a your vehicle in for a service now on Caura to ensure your engine and all its parts are running efficiently.

How long can you drive with the DPF light on

Once the DPF light illuminates, it's a signal that your DPF filter is reaching its capacity and needs immediate attention. While your vehicle won't stop running the moment the light turns on, continuous driving can lead to more severe issues like decreased fuel efficiency, reduced performance, and in the worst case, engine damage.

An illuminated DPF light will cause an MOT failure. Since part of an MOT test is to check that vehicles comply to environmental standards, a faulty or missing DPF will cause an immediate failure.  

If your DPF light turns on, the first thing you should do is attempt to initiate a DPF regeneration cycle. 

This can be done by driving at a consistent speed of at least 40 mph for approximately 10 minutes. This higher sustained speed increases the exhaust temperature, which can often trigger a DPF regeneration.

However, if the DPF light remains on after trying this, or if it's constantly coming on, it's time to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic. They can perform a manual or forced DPF regeneration, or if needed, clean or replace the DPF filter.

Remember, prompt attention to a lit DPF light can save you from expensive repair costs and prolong the life of your vehicle. 

Book into a garage near you on Caura today.

To avoid frequent DPF issues, follow these simple guidelines:

Regularly drive your vehicle at higher (but legal!) speeds on a motorway for at least 20 minutes. This allows the engine to reach the temperature required for DPF regeneration

Regularly service your vehicle, ensuring oil and filters are changed as per the manufacturer's guidelines

Never ignore the DPF light. Take immediate action to prevent any long-term damage

Maintaining the health of your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is not just about maintaining your vehicle's performance, it's also a matter of environmental responsibility. A well-functioning DPF filter reduces the emission of harmful pollutants, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.

Stay on top of vehicle maintenance in Caura.

A common question amongst diesel vehicle owners is: "How long can I drive with the DPF light on?" 

This blog will discuss all things Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) including what can cause the DPF light to turn on, how long you can continue driving in this state, and what steps you should take if the DPF light comes on.

Discover what triggers the DPF light in your diesel vehicle. Learn about DPF filter blockages, DPF pressure sensor issues and how to avoid DPF problems

How long can you drive with the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) light on | Caura

The benefits of booking an MOT test near you

Booking an MOT test is an essential part of vehicle ownership for many drivers in the UK, and finding a local garage near you can make the process even more convenient. Here's a rundown of the key benefits if you choose to book your MOT test at a nearby testing centre:

Save time and money: less travel means reduced fuel or public transport costs and more efficient use of your time. 

Convenience: we’ve simplified the booking process and made it easier than ever for you to book an MOT near you. All you need to do is enter your postcode in Caura and choose from a range of vetted local garages

At Caura, we understand the importance of booking an MOT test and making the process as smooth as possible. That's why we offer a simple and convenient way to book your MOT through our app. 

With just a few taps on your phone, you can find the best MOT garage near you and book your MOT at a time that works for you.

We don’t just offer MOTs, you can also book a car servicing or request a quote for repairs. Our expert mechanics will get back to you with a competitive quote and will only start work upon approval from you.

With Caura, you can easily keep track of all your car-related tasks in one place. Here’s everything you can do in the app:

MOT history: check your MOT history, including all the advisories and faults found during previous tests

Mileage check: each time your car passes an MOT test, the garage will record the mileage. You can see your mileage history in Caura for all the years since the car’s first registration

Renew road tax: we’ll remind you when your vehicle tax is due, then simply renew in-app in under 20 seconds

Trustworthy car insurance: get speedy quotes from market leading insurers and get insured in under a minute

Two-tap city charge / toll payments: check if you’re exempt or make two-tap payments for Clean Air Zones, Congestion Charges and airport drop-off fees

So why wait? Download the Caura app today and discover how easy it is to manage your car!

Are you due for an MOT test and searching for the best MOT garage near you? 

Finding a good MOT garage can be stressful, but look no further than Caura, the app that makes booking an MOT an absolute breeze. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of booking an MOT near you and how Caura can help simplify the tedious booking process.

Find the best MOT garage near you and book your MOT with ease. Learn about the benefits of booking an MOT near you, including convenient locations, cost-effectiveness, and more. Discover how you can book your MOT on Caura and make the process even easier

An MOT test involves various checks of the vehicle to ensure that it is safe and roadworthy. When a vehicle fails its MOT test, it means that at the time of the test, the car did not meet the minimum requirements set out by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).

When faults are identified with the vehicle, the MOT tester will list them as ‘dangerous’, ‘major’, ‘minor’ or ‘advisories.

You can’t fail an MOT on advisories or minor faults alone. This means that, only if an MOT tester identifies any major or dangerous faults with the vehicle, you will not be able to pass your MOT test until the necessary repairs have been made.

What could cause an MOT failure: 11 things that could fail an MOT

When an MOT tester believes that faults found with the vehicle are a potential threat to your safety and that of other road users, it will result in an MOT failure. 

The most common reasons that could cause an MOT failure are:  

Faulty headlights, rear lights, brake lights, indicators, or hazard lights

Improper functioning of fog lights, reverse lights, or number plate lights

Incorrect operation of the lighting control system

Insufficient brake performance when in operation

Insufficient tread depth (below the legal limit of 1.6mm)

Incorrect tyre pressure (the correct tyre pressure is written in your car’s manual)

Faulty shock absorbers or suspension components

Exhaust leaks or excessive corrosion in the exhaust system

Modified or tampered emission control systems

Windscreen cracks or damage that obstructs the driver’s view

Worn or damaged wiper blades that do not clean the windscreen effectively

Damaged seatbelts including buckles and mounts

Inoperative seatbelt retractors or tensioners

Missing or inadequate child restraint systems

Leaks within the fuel system including filler caps

Incorrect or missing fuel system components

Missing or incorrect Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or reg plates Illegal number plates

Horns that don’t work or product sufficient sound

Malfunction car warning lights including ABS, airbag, EML, battery warning lights

Pre-checks to reduce the risk of an MOT failure

We understand how frustrating an MOT failure can be, so we’ve written a detailed blog on pre-checks you can do yourself before heading to your vehicle’s MOT test to minimise the risk of failing. 

By conducting these pre MOT checks, you can take proactive steps to address any issues and increase the chances of a successful MOT test.

We highly recommend checking your MOT history in Caura before your MOT test. You will be able to see all your past test results including any faults or advisories found during the test. 

If there are any faults or advisories on your latest MOT test that you haven’t gotten repaired, you should book these repairs in before your MOT test.

You can book all repair work directly in the Caura app. 

Following an MOT fail, you will need to get the defects to be fixed and then take the vehicle back for a retest. 

If you get your MOT retest done at the same garage:

The next working day, the garage should conduct a free partial retest

Within 10 working days, the garage should conduct a partial retest by may charge a small fee

Read more about getting an MOT retest here.

It's important to note that if your MOT has expired and your vehicle failed the test, you will only be allowed to drive your vehicle to the test centre for a pre-booked MOT test or to a garage for repairs.

Book an MOT with trusted mechanics in Caura

Ever failed an MOT and wondered why? A recent study by the RAC found that around 7.3 million vehicles fail their MOT test each year. We’re here to stop this happening to you!

In this blog, we’ll explore the different causes of an MOT failure and pre MOT checks you can do yourself to minimise the risk of failing an MOT.

Learn the 11 most common reasons for an MOT fail. This blog post will also provide crucial pre MOT checks to reduce the risk of failure, and MOT retest tips. Also find out how you can check your MOT history in Caura.

Understanding what an MOT failure means | Caura

Be prepared for the Bristol Clean Air Zone

Part 4: Now you’re prepared, make sure your friends are too

Know someone who might need to pay for the Bristol Clean Air Zone? Head to the ‘Refer’ tab in-app and send them your referral link to download Caura. They can check if they’re liable to pay using our Bristol Clean Air Zone vehicle checker and from there, they can pay the CAZ charge in a matter of seconds, too.

That’s not all. Each friend that signs up to Caura using your referral code will also get £50 credited to their account, ready for them to use against their insurance renewal. When their insurance is expiring, they can get speedy insurance quotes from market-leading insurers in-app in under a minute!

Your account will also be credited with £50 for each friend that takes out a successful insurance policy with Caura. Remember, the more friends you share your link with, the more you can save on your insurance!

Want a quick way to share Caura with your friends? We’ve made a handy infographic you can share on your socials below! 

Part 1: How will I know if I have driven into the CAZ? 

Signs have already been put up across the city on the roads that lead into the Clean Air Zone. Some signs will indicate how far away the zone is, and others will let you know when the zone starts and ends. All signs will have a symbol with the letter D on it, indicating the class of the CAZ. View the image below for some examples of signs. 

In addition to looking out for these signs while you’re driving, we also suggest you familiarise yourself with where the zone is in place. 

The charging zone will extend across the city centre and harbourside, covering the area from Bristol Temple Meads to the A4176 Portway. The zone will operate 24/7, and like all other Clean Air Zones, the charge will only need to be paid once, even if you are entering the zone multiple times a day.

For more information about the boundary of the Bristol Clean Air Zone, read through our Bristol CAZ page here.

Part 2: How do I know if my vehicle needs to pay the Bristol Clean Air Zone charge?

Bristol is a Class D zone, meaning buses, coaches, taxis, private hire vehicles, heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), vans, minibuses and cars are all included in the charge, provided they don’t meet the minimum national emission standards.

To be exempt from the charge, your vehicle must meet the following emission standards:

Petrol vehicle: Meet Euro 4 emission standards (typically 2006 onwards)

Diesel vehicle: Meet Euro 6 emission standards (typically 2015 onwards)

Hybrid vehicle: Meet the above standards depending on fuel type

If you’re not sure whether your vehicle meets these requirements, don’t worry! Apart from making it easier for you to pay the charge, we’ve also created a Bristol Clean Air Zone vehicle checker! 

All you’d need to do is download Caura (available on the Apple app store and Google play store) and enter your vehicle registration number into the app. Once the Bristol Clean Air Zone goes live on the 28th of November, you will see the CAZ charge in-app, telling you if your vehicle is exempt, or if you need to pay the charge. 

In the meantime, the best way to check if you’re exempt from the Bristol CAZ is by tapping ‘City Charges’ in-app and looking at the Birmingham CAZ charge. Since Birmingham is also a Class D CAZ affecting all drivers of non-compliant vehicles, if the app tells you your vehicle is exempt from the Birmingham CAZ charge, it will also be exempt from the Bristol CAZ charge. Click here to view a video tutorial on how to check exemption status using our Clean Air Zone vehicle checker.

If your vehicle is not exempt, Caura will let you know exactly how much you need to pay depending on your vehicle type, and you can go ahead and pay in a matter of just two taps. By doing it this way, you’ll never have to worry about getting a fine!

There are quite a few temporary exemptions in place that last until March 31st 2023 to support residents whilst they look for a more sustainable mode of travel. If you fall within any of these categories, you will not need to pay the charge even if your vehicle doesn’t meet the minimum emission requirements. You will need to apply for an exemption on the Bristol City Council website – applications are open now. 

Part 3: How much is the Bristol Clean Air Zone charge, and how do I pay it?

The charge is £9 for cars, vans, taxis, minibuses, and light goods vehicles (LGVs) and £100 for HGVs, buses, and coaches. Motorcyclists are exempt from the charge. 

If you need to pay for the Bristol Clean Air Zone, Caura is the quickest and simplest way to pay. Once you’ve entered your vehicle registration number into the app, tap ‘City Charges’ and select ‘Bristol CAZ’. 

In Caura, you can pay for yesterday’s, today’s or tomorrow’s travel – make sure you choose the right date and pay through either Apple pay, Google pay, or your preferred bank card.

No more faffing around with fiddly online forms and having to upload your personal details every single time you drive into the zone. Manage the CAZ with Caura instead.

Driving into Bristol soon? Whether you live locally or are going to visit Bristol for the first time, you’re going to need to be aware of the new Bristol Clean Air Zone (CAZ) that goes live on Monday, 28th November 2022. From this date, all drivers of non-compliant vehicles, including cars, will need to pay the daily zone charge specific to their vehicle type.

We understand that navigating a new CAZ is confusing. Don’t worry, we’ve made you a step-by-step guide detailing how to check if you’re exempt from the charge or how to pay it in a matter of seconds.

Navigating a new Clean Air Zone can be confusing. We’ve made you a step-by-step guide detailing how to check if you’re exempt from the Bristol Clean Air Zone charge or how to pay it in a matter of seconds!

Be prepared for the Bristol Clean Air Zone: A guide to navigating the CAZ | Caura

Why you should book a car service before an MOT test

Difference between an MOT test and a car service

Before we dive into this blog, it’s important to understand the difference between an MOT test and a car service. 

An MOT test is a mandatory annual inspection for all vehicles over three years old to ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive on public roads. During the test, an MOT tester will simply check specific parts of a vehicle for its condition but will not conduct any repairs during the test.

A car service is a comprehensive evaluation and maintenance process that ensures your vehicle operates at peak performance and safety. This routine assessment involves numerous inspections, adjustments, and repairs to optimise your car's efficiency and longevity.

Book an MOT, car service or repair in Caura

Why the order matters: 4 reasons you should service your car first

The order in which you get an MOT test and car service depends on your specific circumstances, but garages suggest it’s a good idea to get the car serviced before your MOT test.

Reduce the likelihood of failing an MOT: during a car service, mechanics can identify and rectify issues that might cause your vehicle to fail its MOT test. This could include replacing worn-out tyres, fixing faulty lights, or even adjusting the brakes. By servicing your car first, you stand a better chance of passing the MOT test the first time around, saving you time and potential retest fees

Early identification of problems: a car service addresses the overall health of your vehicle, including aspects not covered by the MOT test. By getting your car serviced first, you can discover potential issues early and rectify them. This proactive approach not only helps maintain your car in good condition, but it also prevents minor issues from escalating into major, costlier problems down the line

Enhance longevity and efficiency of your vehicle: regular servicing ensures that your car stays in prime condition. By servicing before the MOT, you can make certain that your car is not just safe, but also performing optimally. According to Halfords, this maintenance can improve fuel efficiency, extend your vehicle's lifespan, and offer a smoother, more enjoyable driving experience

Resale value: you can prove that you regularly service and maintain your vehicle which is a great selling point for potential buyers who will want to ensure any vehicle they buy is in good condition

Remember an MOT is not a replacement for a car service. While the MOT test checks that your vehicle is safe and roadworthy, a service might identify issues that aren't part of the MOT test but could cause problems in the future.

When you should get an MOT before service

While most mechanics and garages usually recommend getting a car service before an MOT test, there are scenarios where you might want to book an MOT before service:

WELCOME TO THE ROADEO