11/05/2002
The annual MOT test is a crucial part of vehicle ownership in the UK. It ensures that your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards. While passing your MOT is the primary goal, many drivers are left wondering about those little notes on the advisory section of the report. Are MOT advisories something to worry about? Are they expensive to repair? This article aims to shed light on these common concerns, providing you with valuable insights into the MOT advisory system and what it means for you and your vehicle.
Often, when a car is presented for its MOT test, it might not fail outright but will have several 'advisories'. These are noted by the tester as items that are not currently causing the vehicle to fail but are showing signs of wear or potential future problems. Think of them as early warnings, giving you a heads-up about what might need attention in the near future. While some drivers might be tempted to ignore these advisories, treating them as minor issues, understanding their significance can save you money and hassle down the line. It's also important to understand that the cost of rectifying these advisories can vary significantly.
What Exactly is an MOT Advisory?
An MOT advisory is a condition noted by the MOT tester that does not warrant an immediate failure but is likely to cause a component failure in the near future. These are documented on the MOT certificate. Examples include minor corrosion, worn but not yet critical brake pads, or slightly perished tyres. The key here is 'near future'. The tester is essentially flagging something that, based on their professional judgment and experience, will require attention within the next 12 months or so, before the next MOT is due.
It's vital to distinguish between an advisory and a failure. A failure means the vehicle is not roadworthy in its current state and must be repaired before it can be legally driven. An advisory, on the other hand, means the car has passed the test. However, ignoring advisories can lead to more significant and costly repairs later on, and potentially an MOT failure at the next test.
Are MOT Advisories Expensive to Repair?
This is the million-dollar question, and the answer is: it depends. The cost of repairing an MOT advisory can range from very little to a substantial amount. For instance, an advisory about a tyre that is nearing its legal limit might only cost the price of a new tyre (typically £50-£150 depending on the tyre size and brand). However, an advisory about corroded brake pipes or suspension components could be more expensive, potentially involving labour costs for replacement parts. Some advisories, like minor surface corrosion on the chassis that hasn't compromised structural integrity, might not require immediate action and could be monitored.
One common scenario is when a car is being purchased. Buyers often ask for a reduction in the asking price to cover the cost of rectifying any advisories. This is a perfectly reasonable negotiation tactic. If a car has several advisories, it's not unreasonable to expect a discount from the seller to reflect the potential future expenditure. For example, if a car has advisories for two worn tyres and slightly corroded brake fluid, a seller might be persuaded to knock off £150-£300 from the asking price.
Common MOT Advisories and Their Potential Costs:
| Advisory Item | Potential Issue | Estimated Repair Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Tyres nearing minimum tread depth | Poor grip, potential for aquaplaning, MOT failure | £50 - £150 per tyre |
| Worn shock absorber(s) | Reduced handling, increased braking distance, MOT failure | £100 - £300 per shock absorber (incl. labour) |
| Slightly corroded brake pipes | Potential brake failure, MOT failure | £150 - £400 (depending on extent and location) |
| Perished or cracking rubber hoses | Fluid leaks, potential for component failure | £50 - £200 |
| Minor corrosion on suspension components | Could lead to structural weakness, MOT failure | £100 - £500 (depending on component and severity) |
| Worn but not excessively | May pass this year, but will likely fail next | £50 - £100 (if minor adjustment needed) |
Please note: These are estimated costs and can vary significantly based on your location, the garage you use, and the specific make and model of your vehicle. It's always best to get a quote from your chosen mechanic.
The Consistency of MOT Testing: A Cause for Concern?
This is where things can get a bit murky. While the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) aims for consistency, anecdotal evidence suggests that there can be variations in how MOT tests are conducted and how advisories are issued. The information provided highlights a few instances that raise questions about this consistency.
One user reported an advisory for a 'slightly buckled wheel' that disappeared from the report in subsequent years without any apparent repair. This could suggest a few things: perhaps the wheel wasn't as buckled as initially assessed, or the interpretation of 'slightly buckled' varies between testers. Another experience details a car failing on tyres, only for a different garage to deem the tyres acceptable shortly after. This can be particularly frustrating for car owners.
There's also a suggestion that some garages might be more inclined to issue advisories to encourage customers to book repairs with them. While this isn't a widespread practice, it's a possibility that can erode trust. The scenario where a car fails on tyres after the owner agreed to a price match for new tyres also raises eyebrows. While the garage claimed they didn't have the tyres in stock, the pre-booking suggests otherwise, hinting at a possible upsell or a deliberate decision to fail the vehicle on a specific item.
Furthermore, the idea that testers might be encouraged to fail a certain proportion of cars to justify the annual MOT system is a contentious one. The argument is that if cars were consistently passing with very few issues, it might lead to calls for less frequent testing. Therefore, a certain level of 'strictness' could be maintained to preserve the current system. This is largely speculative, but it's a sentiment echoed by some motorists.
Factors Influencing MOT Test Results:
- Tester Interpretation: While there are guidelines, some aspects of the MOT test allow for tester discretion. What one tester deems 'minor corrosion', another might flag as 'significant'.
- Garage Policy: Some garages may have stricter internal policies regarding wear and tear, aiming to preemptively address potential issues.
- Vehicle Age and Condition: Older vehicles are naturally more likely to have advisories due to general wear and tear.
- Specific Components: Certain components, like tyres and brakes, are more frequently flagged due to their direct impact on safety.
What to Do About MOT Advisories
Receiving an MOT advisory doesn't mean your car is unsafe to drive, but it's essential not to ignore them completely. Here's a sensible approach:
- Assess the Severity: Read the advisory carefully. If it's something like 'nearside front tyre tread slightly below limit', you know you'll need new tyres soon. If it's 'minor corrosion on offside rear brake pipe', it's worth getting a second opinion from a trusted independent mechanic.
- Get a Second Opinion: If you're unsure about an advisory, especially if it involves a significant repair cost, take your car to a different reputable garage for an inspection and quote. As demonstrated in one of the user experiences, the difference in opinion regarding brake pipe corrosion was substantial.
- Prioritise Safety: If the advisory relates to critical safety components like brakes, steering, or suspension, address it promptly. It's better to be safe than sorry.
- Budget for Repairs: Keep track of your advisories and budget for potential repairs. Regular maintenance can often prevent minor issues from becoming major, expensive problems.
- Negotiate When Buying: If you're buying a used car with MOT advisories, use them as leverage to negotiate the price. Get a clear understanding of the potential repair costs before agreeing on a purchase.
Mileage Correction Concerns
The provided text also touches upon mileage correction. A lack of consistency in annual mileage (e.g., 10k-12k miles for two years, then significantly less in the third) can indeed raise suspicions of mileage tampering. While not all discrepancies are due to illicit activity, a significant and unexplained drop in recorded mileage can be a red flag. This is something to be particularly aware of when purchasing a used vehicle. Always check the vehicle's MOT history online, which can help identify any inconsistencies in recorded mileage over the years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I drive my car if it has MOT advisories?
Yes, you can legally drive your car with MOT advisories as long as it passes the MOT test. Advisories are recommendations for future repairs, not immediate reasons for failure.
Q2: How long do I have to fix MOT advisories?
There is no set deadline for fixing advisories. However, they indicate components that will likely fail the MOT in the future, so it's advisable to address them within a reasonable timeframe, ideally before your next MOT is due.
Q3: Should I always fix MOT advisories immediately?
Not necessarily. Assess the severity of the advisory. Minor issues can often wait, but safety-critical items should be dealt with promptly. Getting a second opinion can help you decide.
Q4: Can a garage fail my car for an advisory item?
No, a garage cannot fail your car for an advisory item. An advisory is something that does not cause an immediate failure. If a garage insists on failing your car for something listed as an advisory, it would be advisable to seek clarification or a second opinion.
Q5: What is the difference between an advisory and a defect?
A defect is a reason for the vehicle to fail the MOT test. An advisory is a recommendation for future repair.
In conclusion, MOT advisories are an integral part of vehicle safety and maintenance. While they might seem daunting, understanding what they mean and taking a proactive approach to addressing them can save you money and keep your vehicle in good condition. Always seek clear explanations and consider getting a second opinion when in doubt, ensuring you're making informed decisions about your car's upkeep.
If you want to read more articles similar to Understanding MOT Advisories, you can visit the Maintenance category.