Scrap & Non-RunnersA car that is on SORN, has failed its MOT with dangerous problems, or will not start has to be moved on a recovery truck. The law lets you drive a SORN car only to or from a pre-booked MOT or test, and a car without a valid MOT only to a place of repair or a pre-arranged MOT test.
When you can and can’t drive it
| The car is | What the law allows |
|---|---|
| On SORN | Only to or from a pre-booked MOT or other test; otherwise a fine of up to £2,500 (GOV.UK) |
| Without a valid MOT | Only to or from a place of repair, or to a pre-arranged MOT test; otherwise a fine of up to £1,000 (GOV.UK) |
| Failed its MOT with a dangerous problem | Not at all until repaired (GOV.UK) |
| Uninsured | Not at all |
Even where an exception applies, the car must be insured and roadworthy.
Why towing with a rope is a poor idea
A tow rope or bar still puts the towed car on the road, so the same tax, insurance and MOT rules apply to it. It also needs a second driver who can steer and brake with the engine off, which is hard in a modern car with no power steering assistance. A recovery truck carries the car with its wheels off the road.
Common reasons to move a non-runner
- From an MOT centre to another garage for a second quote (see car failed its MOT? your options)
- To a scrapyard (see how to scrap a car in the UK)
- To a buyer after selling it as a non-runner
- To a new address when you move house
- From a street where it has stopped starting, before you get a parking ticket
Before the truck arrives
- Have the keys ready. Without them, the steering may be locked and the car harder to load.
- Tell the company whether the wheels turn and whether the handbrake releases.
- Give the exact address of both ends, and mention narrow access or low car parks.
- Take personal items out of the car.
- Ask for the total price before the truck sets off.
If the car just will not start, a jump start may be enough to get it going. See jump start.
Moving non-runners in Essex and East London
AXI Recovery moves cars, vans and motorcycles that can’t be driven, 24/7, across Essex, East London and Dartford, to any garage or address you choose. See car recovery, scrap car removal or all the areas we cover.
Call +44 7342 850180.
Related guides
- Car failed its MOT? Your options
- How to scrap a car in the UK: step by step
- Breakdown cover vs pay-as-you-go recovery
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