MOT/Tax Question

Hello, I just moved to the East Midlands from the US. I have been getting on without a car (and enjoying it) but have been contemplating getting a cheap clunker car for the rare trip out of the city. Cars are super cheap here, but I'm wondering how much MOT and Taxes work out to be. (I know there is also insurance which would depend on individuals)

Also, is it easy enough to get rid of a beater if it just dies and I don't want to get it fixed?

Hi,

The amount of the car tax depends first on how old the car is and then on a couple of other factors.  If the car was first registered before March 2001, the amount of the tax depends on the engine size.  For cars registered after March 2001, the amount of the tax depends mostly on the car's emissions.  It sounds more complex than it is, and here's a link to help explain it:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/OwningAVehicle/HowToTaxYourVehicle/DG_10012524

The MOT is easier.  For cars it costs £54.00.  Here's a link with more details:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/OwningAVehicle/Mot/DG_4022514

The MOT is pretty comprehensive, and for older cars it's not unheard of to fail.  Obviously, if the car fails the MOT, then you'd have to pay to have it repaired if you wanted to drive it.  Alternatively, you could just junk it. 

Just like in the US, if your car dies and you don't want to get it fixed, you can just have a junkyard take it (junkyards are called "breakers" in the UK).

Hope that helps.