How Much Does an APK Inspection Cost? [2025 Price Overview Netherlands]

How much does an MOT inspection cost in 2025? We get this question every day at Faay Auto Groep. The price of an MOT inspection can vary significantly by garage and region. In this article, we explain in detail what an MOT costs, the reasons for the price differences, and how you can save money.

At Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein, you pay from €17.95 for an MOT inspection. But there are other costs to consider, such as potential repairs and re-inspections. We've listed everything for you.

APK Costs 2025: Price Overview

Average APK Prices Netherlands

  • Passenger car: $17.95 – $60
  • Engine: \u20ac15 – \u20ac40
  • Van (up to 3500 kg): \u20ac30 – \u20ac75
  • Camper: \u20ac40 – \u20ac85
  • Trailer: \u20ac20 – \u20ac45

Prices Faay Auto Group Nieuwegein

  • APK inspection: From €17.95
  • MOT + minor service combination: From €149.95
  • Re-inspection: Free (if repaired immediately)
  • Re-inspection repaired elsewhere: \u20ac17.95

Why Do APK Prices Differ?

The price of an MOT inspection varies by garage and region. The main reasons are:

1. Location and Region

  • Randstad: Higher costs (\u20ac35-\u20ac60)
  • Provinces: Lower cost (\u20ac17.95-\u20ac40)
  • Cause: Rent, labor costs and competition

2. Type Garage

  • Brand dealer: \u20ac40-\u20ac60 (most expensive option)
  • Chain (ATU, Kwik-Fit): \u20ac25-\u20ac45
  • Local garage: $17.95-$40 (best price/quality)
  • APK-only companies: $17.95-$30 (cheapest)

3. Combination deals

Many garages offer combination deals that are more advantageous:

  • MOT + maintenance service
  • MOT + repair
  • APK + air conditioning service
  • MOT + tire change

At Faay Auto Groep you get MOT + minor service from €149.95 – cheaper than having it done separately.

Complete Cost Overview APK Inspection

Element Costs Explanation
APK inspection $17.95 – $60 Basic inspection costs
Re-inspection (same garage) Free – \u20ac25 Often free with immediate repair
Re-inspection (other garage) $17.95 – $40 Full APK price again
Minor repairs \u20ac25 – \u20ac100 Light, windshield wiper, tire pressure
Medium-sized repairs \u20ac100 – \u20ac500 Brake pads, exhaust, tires
Major repairs \u20ac500+ Engine, gearbox, rust

What is checked during the APK?

During the MOT inspection, more than 300 checkpoints are inspected. The most important categories:

  • Brakes: Operation, wear, brake fluid, handbrake
  • Relief: All lamps, reflectors, indicators
  • Tyres: Tread depth (min. 1.6 mm), tension, condition
  • Steering and suspension: Clearance, condition, suspension
  • Exhaust: Leaks, mounting, emissions
  • Body: Rust, sharp edges, soundness
  • Windshield wipers: Operation and condition
  • Seat belts: All belts and fastenings
  • Mirrors: Present and undamaged
  • Horn: Operation

Read more in our extensive APK inspection guide. For an optimal chance of success, we recommend combining your MOT with a service.

How Long Does an APK Inspection Take?

A standard MOT inspection takes 30 to 45 minutes. This may take longer for:

  • Larger vehicles (campers, vans)
  • Many defects that are repaired immediately
  • Crowds at the inspection station
  • Complex repairs during inspection

At Faay Auto Groep, your repair is usually completed within 30 minutes if there are no defects.

When does my car need to be inspected?

  • New cars: First MOT after 4 years (from 2010 onwards)
  • After first MOT: Every year again
  • Classic cars: Exempt from MOT (50+ years)
  • Term: Maximum 1 month before expiration date

Save Money on MOT Costs

1. Compare Prices

APK prices can vary (€17.95 vs. €60). Call a few garages in your area and ask about:

  • APK price
  • Re-inspection costs
  • Combination deals with maintenance
  • Waiting time for appointment

2. Prepare the car

Get your car inspected immediately – this will save you re-inspection costs. Check beforehand:

  • All lights work
  • Tire pressure and tread (min. 1.6 mm)
  • Windshield wipers in good condition
  • Windshield washer fluid refilled
  • Mirrors intact
  • Horn works
  • No sharp edges or rust

Read our complete APK preparation checklist with 15 points.

3. Combine with Maintenance

A combination subscription saves time and money:

  • MOT + minor service: From €149.95 (instead of €180 separately)
  • Time saving: One appointment, one visit to the garage
  • Better chance of success: Car in top condition due to maintenance
  • Free re-inspection: In case of any defects

4. Direct Repair in Case of Rejection

If your car fails inspection:

  • Have it repaired immediately at the same garage
  • Re-inspection is often free
  • Repair elsewhere = pay full MOT again

5. Regular Maintenance

Cars with regular maintenance are approved more than once:

  • Less wear and tear on critical parts
  • Problems are discovered in time
  • Lower total car costs

Most Common APK Rejection Points

These defects most often lead to rejection:

  1. Lighting defect: 28% of rejections (easily avoided!)
  2. Tires worn: 22% (profile under 1.6 mm)
  3. Brakes worn: 18% (brake pads/discs too thin)
  4. Rust: 12% (load-bearing parts affected)
  5. Windshield wipers: 8% (malfunction)
  6. Exhaust: 6% (leaks, excessive emissions)
  7. Suspension: 4% (too much play)
  8. Other: 2% (horn, mirrors, etc.)

Average repair costs after rejection: \u20ac150-\u20ac400

APK Approved, Rejected or Reinspection?

Approved

Your car meets all requirements. You will receive a digital inspection certificate that will be automatically registered in the RDW system. Valid for one year.

Rejected

One or more defects have been found that endanger road safety. You are permitted to drive for another two months, but must undergo a re-inspection within that time. Dangerous defects: immediate driving ban.

Recovery inspection

After repairs, you must return for a re-inspection. Only the previously failed points will be re-inspected. This is faster and often cheaper than a full MOT.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the average cost of an MOT inspection?

An MOT inspection for a passenger car costs an average of €17.95 to €60 in the Netherlands. At Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein, you pay from €17.95. The price varies by garage and region, with larger cities generally being more expensive.

How long is an APK valid?

An MOT inspection is valid for one year. You can have it inspected up to one month before the expiration date without losing the expiration date. The new expiration date will then be one year after the old expiration date, not after the inspection date.

Can I get a better deal with an APK-only company?

MOT-only companies often have the lowest inspection prices (€17.95-€25). The downside: if your car fails inspection, you'll have to repair it elsewhere and pay the full price for the re-inspection. At a regular garage, re-inspection is often free after immediate repair, which can be more cost-effective.

How much does a re-inspection cost?

If you have your car repaired immediately by the garage that inspected it, the re-inspection is often free. If you have it repaired elsewhere, you'll pay the full MOT price again (€17.95-€60). This usually makes immediate repairs more cost-effective.

How do I know if my MOT is about to expire?

Check the APK expiration date in three ways: in your vehicle registration certificate, part 1, via the RDW app, or online at rdw.nl by entering your vehicle registration number. You won't receive an automatic reminder – checking it yourself is essential!

Can I drive with an expired MOT?

No, driving with an expired MOT is prohibited and will result in a fine of €140. Your insurance may also not cover any damage. After failing your MOT, you have two months to drive before re-inspection. Any dangerous defects will result in an immediate driving ban.

What are the cheapest days for MOT?

Weekdays (Monday through Thursday) prices are often slightly lower than weekends. Avoid the rush around the turn of the month, when many MOTs are due. Book during off-peak hours for faster service and sometimes special offers.

Do I get a discount for MOT + maintenance?

Yes, combination deals are often more affordable. At Faay Auto Groep, an MOT and minor service cost €149.95, while booking them separately would cost €180+. You save time, money, and increase your chances of success because your car is in top condition.

What happens in the event of a dangerous defect?

In the event of dangerous defects (e.g., serious brake failure, loose wheels), you will be immediately banned from driving. You will no longer be permitted to drive and must have the car towed to a garage. This is rare with well-maintained cars.

Are there hidden costs with APK?

Reliable garages have no hidden costs. The MOT price is the inspection fee – repairs are an additional charge. Always request a quote for repairs beforehand. At Faay Auto Groep, you'll receive a clear price quote before we repair anything.

Book your APK inspection at Faay Auto Group

Bee Faay Auto Group in Nieuwegein you are assured of a competitive price and honest service:

  • APK from €17.95: Competitive price, no hidden costs
  • Quick inspection: Often ready within 30 minutes
  • RDW approved: Official recognition, digital inspection certificate
  • Free re-inspection: In case of immediate repair
  • Transparent: First quote, then repair
  • Combo deals: MOT + maintenance from €149.95
  • Experienced inspectors: Years of expertise
  • Direct repair: Often ready the same day

Book your MOT inspection now:

Don't let your MOT expire – book your appointment today!

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