A DOUBLE dose of good news for owners of older Vauxhall cars and car-derived vans comes with improved MOT Test Insurance. Owners of most Vauxhall vehicles up to eight years old and with less than 80,000 miles on the clock can now cushion themselves against expensive repair and replacement of parts likely to cause MOT test failure. And the policy can be transferred to a new owner.

Available from Vauxhall Retailers and MasterFit Centre throughout the UK (excluding N Ireland and the Channel Islands), the special insurance scheme covers safety-related components and other parts identified as the cause of up to 85 per cent of MOT test failures. Repairs and replacement of parts up to a value of £750 including labour and VAT are covered and owners have the added reassurance of knowing that any defects will be put right by Vauxhall-trained technicians using only approved replacement parts.

The comprehensive policy embraces electrical and lighting equipment, brakes, steering and suspension, seatbelts, mirrors and general vehicle condition. The annual premium is just £35. Insurance must be taken out at least six months before the next MOT test is due, and is subject to owners providing proof that their vehicles have been serviced in accordance with the manufacturer's servicing schedule.

"With more components now covered and the chance to pass on the insurance should the car be sold before its next MOT test, this scheme will provide owners of older Vauxhalls with reassurance that their car will be properly looked after and safe to drive," commented aftersales marketing manager Nigel Griggs.