Question 1

When is my MOT due?

Accepted Answer

Your MOT is due every 12 months after your car turns three years old. You can book up to one month early without losing a month of cover. We can check your MOT history using your registration number.

Question 2

What happens during an MOT test?

Accepted Answer

We carry out a DVSA-standard test checking lights, brakes, steering, suspension, tyres, emissions, and windscreen. You will be shown the results — pass, fail, or advisory — and we explain each one clearly before suggesting any repairs.

Question 3

Do you do MOT retests?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your vehicle fails, we can repair it and rebook the retest. We give you an upfront quote before any work starts, so you know the cost before we proceed.

Question 4

What is an MOT advisory?

Accepted Answer

An advisory is a minor issue noted during the test. It will not stop you from passing, but it is something you should address soon — we can advise on the repair and timeline.

Question 5

What Class of MOT do you test?

Accepted Answer

We are DVSA-approved for Class 4 MOT testing (cars). If you need testing for a van or motorcycle, we can recommend a nearby authorised centre.

Question 6

Is there an MOT centre near me in Oldbury?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are a DVSA-approved Class 4 MOT centre at 93 Park Lane, Oldbury, B69 4LP, open Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm. Call us on 0121 544 3736 or book online and we will fit you in around your day.

Question 7

How long does an MOT test take?

Accepted Answer

Typically 45 minutes to an hour. We will let you know if we are running behind, and you can wait in our garage or pop back later.

Question 8

Can I drive on an MOT advisory?

Accepted Answer

Yes, an advisory does not make your car illegal to drive. However, we recommend fixing the issue soon — we can give you a quote and help you decide the right time to return.

Question 9

How often should I service my car?

Accepted Answer

Most manufacturers recommend every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Some vehicles may differ, so check your service schedule or give us a call — we are happy to advise.

Question 10

What is the difference between interim, full and major services?

Accepted Answer

An interim service (6 months / 6,000 miles) covers oil, filter and core safety checks. A full service (12 months / 12,000 miles) adds air filter and deeper inspections. A major service (24 months / 24,000 miles) covers everything plus spark plugs, transmission checks and exhaust review.

Question 11

Do you stamp service books?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We stamp your service book at every service to maintain your vehicle history. A stamped book is important for warranty cover and resale value.

Question 12

How long does a service take?

Accepted Answer

An interim service typically takes 1–2 hours. A full service is usually 2–3 hours, and a major service can take 3–4 hours. We will give you a realistic time when you book.

Question 13

What is included in a service?

Accepted Answer

Oil, oil filter, and fluid top-ups are standard. A full service adds air filter replacement and deeper checks of brakes, suspension and steering. We provide a detailed checklist so you know what has been looked at.

Question 14

Do you use genuine OEM parts?

Accepted Answer

We use OEM-equivalent or quality aftermarket parts depending on the job and your preference. We always give you the cost upfront and discuss options before proceeding.

Question 15

Can you service hybrid or electric vehicles?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We service most hybrid cars and can advise on electric vehicle maintenance. Some specialist electric work may need to be passed to a specialist, but we will discuss this with you.

Question 16

What if my service light will not reset?

Accepted Answer

We reset service lights where the system supports it as part of your service. Some vehicles require dealer-level diagnostics; we will let you know if that is the case.

Question 17

Do you work on all makes and models?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We service and repair most cars, vans and pick-up trucks — from family saloons to motorhomes. If there is something unusual, we will be honest about whether we can help or recommend a specialist.

Question 18

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We are based in Oldbury and serve Oldbury, Rowley Regis, West Bromwich, Smethwick, Halesowen, Dudley and surrounding areas across the West Midlands. If you are further out, call us — we may still be able to help.

Question 19

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Call us on 0121 544 3736, email Russell.rhautos@gmail.com, or drop by. We are open Monday to Friday 8:30am–5:30pm. We often have same-day slots available.

Question 20

Do you offer upfront quotes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We inspect your vehicle, give you a clear written quote, and only start work once you have approved it. No surprises on the invoice — you will know the cost before we begin.

Question 21

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, card and bank transfer. We are happy to discuss payment options when you call, and we can often invoice you after the work is complete.

Question 22

Is there a waiting room or lounge?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While we service your vehicle, you are welcome to wait in our garage, or if you prefer to leave, we will call you when the work is done.

Question 23

How much will my repair cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary depending on the job. We always give a detailed quote showing parts, labour and VAT before we proceed. For routine work like servicing or MOT, we are happy to give a ballpark estimate over the phone.

Question 24

Are you family-run and independent?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have been running RH Auto Engineering as a family business since 1991 — over 30 years of honest, reliable service in Oldbury. That experience means you get straight advice from people you can trust.

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