MOT Advisories: What Two Mean

Understanding Your MOT: What Two Advisories Really Signify

Receiving an MOT certificate with advisories can understandably cause a degree of concern for any vehicle owner. While an advisory doesn't mean an immediate failure, it does highlight potential issues that, if left unaddressed, could lead to more significant problems or even a failure at a future MOT test. When your car garners two advisories, it's natural to wonder about the severity of these points and what action, if any, you need to take. This article aims to demystify what two advisories on your MOT report mean, explore common reasons for them, and provide guidance on how to manage these recommendations effectively.

What Exactly is an MOT Advisory?

An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is an annual inspection to ensure your vehicle meets roadworthiness and environmental standards. The test is rigorous, covering a wide range of components, from lighting and steering to braking and emissions. When an examiner conducts the test, they assess your vehicle against specific criteria. If a component is not of an acceptable standard but does not directly cause a failure, it will be listed as an advisory. These are essentially recommendations for maintenance or repair that should be addressed to prevent future issues.

Interpreting Two Advisories: Common Scenarios

Having two advisories on your MOT report is not uncommon. Often, these advisories relate to wear and tear that is gradual and doesn't immediately compromise safety to the point of failure. Let's consider some frequent examples and what they might imply:

Brake Wear: The Most Frequent Culprit

Brake discs and pads are consumable items that wear down over time with use. It's very common to see advisories related to brake components. For instance, an advisory might state:

• "Nearside front brake disc worn, but not scored as to cause immediate braking impairment."
• "Offside rear brake pad worn close to the minimum thickness."

As the provided information suggests, even if your brakes pass the braking test, the examiner might notice that the discs or pads are approaching their wear limits. This doesn't mean your brakes are unsafe *now*, but they will likely require replacement sooner rather than later. The concern here, as highlighted, is understanding *why* they are in this condition. Is it due to a lack of regular servicing, leading to seizing or poor lubrication, or simply the natural progression of wear on a vehicle that is used frequently?

Cost Consideration: While the cost of replacement parts like Pagid discs and pads can be relatively affordable (around £100 for both from suppliers like Euro Car Parts, as per the example), the labour cost for a garage to fit them can vary. It's always wise to get a quote.

Suspension Components: A Common Area for Advisories

Suspension systems are subjected to constant stress. Components such as:

• Ball joints
• Tie rod ends
• Shock absorbers

can develop play or start to leak over time. An advisory might read:

• "Nearside front suspension arm has slight play in a ball joint."
• "Offside rear shock absorber is leaking fluid."

Slight play in a ball joint or a minor leak from a shock absorber might not cause immediate handling issues or affect the MOT test outcome, but they indicate wear that needs monitoring. Over time, this play can increase, affecting steering and tyre wear, and a leaking shock absorber can reduce damping effectiveness, impacting handling and braking.

Tyre Wear: Beyond the Tread Depth

While insufficient tread depth is an MOT failure, advisories can relate to other tyre conditions:

• "Nearside front tyre has a bulge on the sidewall."
• "Offside rear tyre worn on the edge."

A bulge on the sidewall is particularly concerning as it indicates potential structural weakness and a risk of blow-out. Even wear on the edge of a tyre, if not severe enough to be a failure, suggests an issue with wheel alignment or suspension geometry that should be investigated.

Exhaust System: Minor Corrosion or Leaks

Small areas of corrosion on the exhaust system or a very minor leak that doesn't affect emissions levels might be noted as advisories:

• "Exhaust shows signs of minor corrosion."
• "Exhaust system is slightly blowing."

These advisories indicate that the exhaust system is showing signs of age and potential future deterioration. While not an immediate safety risk, significant corrosion can lead to leaks, increased noise, and eventual failure.

What to Do When You Have Two Advisories

The presence of two advisories does not mean your car is unsafe to drive immediately. However, it's crucial to take them seriously. Here’s a recommended course of action:

1. Understand the Advisories: Read the advisories carefully. If you're unsure about the technical terms or implications, ask your MOT centre for a clearer explanation. They may be able to show you the worn parts or explain the potential consequences of not addressing them.
2. Prioritise Repairs: Some advisories are more critical than others. For example, a bulge in a tyre or significant play in steering components should be addressed promptly. Worn brake pads or discs, while not a failure, should be scheduled for replacement before they reach a dangerous level.
3. Seek Professional Advice: It's often best to have a qualified mechanic inspect the areas highlighted in the advisories. They can assess the true condition of the components and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
4. Budget for Repairs: Factor in the potential cost of repairs when planning your vehicle maintenance budget. While some fixes might be minor, others, like suspension work, can be more costly.
5. Monitor the Advisories: Keep a record of your MOT advisories. At your next MOT, the examiner will check if these issues have been addressed or if they have worsened.

Table: Common MOT Advisories and Their Implications

Here's a quick reference table for common advisories:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: If my car has two advisories, does it mean it's unsafe?

Not necessarily. An advisory indicates a potential issue that needs monitoring or future repair. It means the component is not in perfect condition but does not currently meet the criteria for an MOT failure. However, it's crucial to address them to maintain safety and prevent future problems.

Q2: How long do I have to fix advisories?

There is no strict deadline to fix advisories. However, they highlight wear and tear that will likely worsen. It's best to address them as soon as practically possible, especially if they relate to critical safety components like brakes or steering.

Q3: Can I sell a car with MOT advisories?

Yes, you can sell a car with advisories. However, being transparent with potential buyers about the advisories is essential. Many buyers may be put off or may negotiate the price down due to the need for future repairs.

Q4: Should I get the work done at the MOT centre?

You are not obligated to have the repairs done at the MOT centre. You can take your car to any qualified mechanic. It's often advisable to get a second opinion or a quote from your preferred garage.

Conclusion

Two MOT advisories are a signal from your vehicle that certain components are showing signs of wear or are approaching the end of their service life. By understanding what these advisories mean, seeking professional advice, and acting on the recommendations, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe, reliable, and compliant with roadworthiness standards. Proactive maintenance is key to avoiding more significant and costly repairs down the line, and keeping those advisories in check will contribute to a longer, healthier life for your car.

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