The annual MOT test; the automotive equivalent of visiting the doctor with a bit of a worrying cough, is a time of trepidation for many motorists, unless they are very rich. Previously unknown faults are discovered meaning many, many Pounds Sterling are required to effect repair and these poor owners are left in the garage waiting room, hyperventilating into a paper bag.
Take It Under Advisement The annual MOT test; the automotive equivalent of visiting the doctor with a bit of a worrying cough, is a time of trepidation for many motorists, unless they are very rich. Previously unknown faults are discovered meaning many, many Pounds Sterling are required to effect repair and these poor owners are left in the garage waiting room, hyperventilating into a paper bag.
It’s not always bad news though. Cars that have been properly maintained can and do pass the MOT test and those fortunate drivers can breathe an annual sigh of relief when the pass certificate is handed over. On some occasions though, it is not always that clear cut. There could be advisories.
Under Advisement
MOT advisories are a warning that the vehicle tested is okay at that point in time but could still become unroadworthy in a matter of weeks if the advisories are ignored. For example, a tyre advisory could be because the tread is nearing the 1.6mm minimum depth, or the tyres may have developed some cracking due to age, wear notwithstanding. It might be a brake advisory because the vehicle’s brakes are nearing the wear limit, or showing signs of deterioration– potentially posing a safety risk to both owner and passengers.
More Data
Some of the latest road safety data has noted that more than one in four vehicles with a valid MOT leaves the forecourt with potentially serious advisories that could result in a very heavy fine if not addressed in a matter of weeks, as advised. It’s reckoned that out of around 38 million motors in the UK, over nine million could be at hazard.
As mentioned above, the most common serious MOT advisories concern tyres and brakes, with nearly 1 in 6 drivers who pass their MOT leaving the forecourt with advice from mechanics to have them fixed soon. These are not just idle comments and it pays to note them. One in seven cars also have an advisory for suspension and just 1 in 45 for their lamps. Clouding of headlamp covers can be an issue for example.
Once unroadworthy post-MOT and subsequently discovered by authorities, owners driving a vehicle with defective tyres, brakes or with unfit parts that could cause danger find suddenly that fault is punishable with a hefty fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points. Twelve percent of drivers with advisories have at least two off the back of their MOT and 4% have more than three, meaning that if left unfixed they could potentially be liable for multiple fines or penalty points on their driver’s license. It boils down to a question of some pain now or greater pain later. No brands do better or worse than any other. Some are good on brakes or easy on tyres while others have issues elsewhere. Poor tyre maintenance and faulty brakes are being cited as the top two most common reasons for vehicle accidents in Britain but it’s worth noting that they are the most common advisory for cars that pass their MOTs too. There’s a clear correlation.
That’s why the cars that we sell are always examined by a qualified AA inspector and, where appropriate, the length of current MOT is clearly shown for guidance.