15/11/2023
The MOT test is a crucial annual check designed to ensure your vehicle is safe and environmentally compliant. Since May 2018, the categorisation of defects identified during an MOT test in England, Scotland, and Wales has been updated, bringing clearer guidelines for both testers and vehicle owners. Understanding these new categories is vital for knowing what action, if any, is required for your vehicle to remain road legal. This guide breaks down the updated defect classifications, explaining what each category signifies and the implications for your vehicle's MOT status.
The New Defect Categories Explained
When your vehicle undergoes its MOT, any issues found will now be placed into one of three primary defect categories: Dangerous, Major, or Minor. The MOT tester is responsible for making the final decision on which category a defect falls into, based on its severity and potential impact. In addition to these, testers will continue to provide 'advisories' for issues that don't immediately cause a fail but require monitoring.
Dangerous Defects
A 'Dangerous' defect represents a direct and immediate risk to road safety, or has a serious detrimental effect on the environment. If your vehicle is found to have a dangerous defect, it must not be driven under any circumstances until the necessary repairs have been completed. Any vehicle with a dangerous defect will automatically fail its MOT test. This category is reserved for the most critical issues that could lead to an accident or significant environmental damage.
Major Defects
A 'Major' defect indicates that the vehicle's safety may be compromised, potentially putting the driver, passengers, or other road users at risk. It can also signify an environmental impact. Vehicles with major defects will require immediate repair. If any part of your vehicle is categorised as 'Major', it will result in an MOT fail. While not as immediately critical as a dangerous defect, a major defect still necessitates prompt attention to ensure safety and compliance.
Minor Defects
Defects categorised as 'Minor' do not pose a significant risk to the vehicle's safety or have any notable environmental impact. While these defects do not cause an immediate MOT failure, the tester will advise that repairs should be carried out as soon as possible to prevent potential future issues. Your vehicle will still pass its MOT test even with minor defects present, but it's wise to address them proactively.
Advisories
Items labelled as 'Advisory' are issues that the MOT tester has identified as needing attention or monitoring. These are not defects that cause an immediate fail, but they are points of concern that could develop into more serious problems over time. The vehicle will pass its MOT test with advisories, but you should plan to have these items repaired or addressed when convenient.
Specific Changes in the MOT Test
The 2018 update introduced several other key changes:
Stricter Emissions for Diesel Cars
Vehicles equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) are now subject to more stringent emissions testing. The DPF is designed to trap soot, reducing harmful emissions. If a diesel vehicle emits visible smoke from its exhaust during the MOT, or if the tester finds evidence of tampering with the DPF system, it will be classified as a major fault, leading to an MOT fail. It is important to consult your vehicle's handbook if you are unsure whether it has a DPF.
New Checks Introduced
The MOT test now includes checks for a range of new items:
- Obviously underinflated tyres.
- Contaminated brake fluid.
- Fluid leaks that could pose an environmental risk.
- Malfunctioning brake pad warning lights and missing brake pads or discs.
- Functionality of reversing lights on vehicles first used from 1 September 2009.
- Functionality of headlight washers (where fitted) on vehicles first used from 1 September 2009.
- Functionality of daytime running lights on vehicles first used from 1 March 2018 (this check primarily affects newer vehicles, as the first MOT is typically due at three years old).
New MOT Test Certificate
A new style of MOT certificate has been introduced. This certificate clearly lists any defects found, categorised according to the new system (Dangerous, Major, Minor, Advisory), making the results easier to understand. The online service used to check a vehicle's MOT history has also been updated to reflect these changes.
Exemption for Classic Vehicles
A significant change for owners of older vehicles is that cars, motorcycles, and light passenger vehicles over 40 years old are now exempt from the MOT test, provided they have not undergone substantial modifications. Previously, this exemption only applied to vehicles manufactured before 1960. The 40-year period is calculated from the vehicle's original registration date. While no formal application is needed to benefit from this exemption, you must declare that your vehicle meets the criteria for not requiring an MOT each time you tax it.
Key Takeaways and Practical Advice
Understanding the MOT defect categories is essential for responsible vehicle ownership. Here's a summary of what you need to know:
| Category | Implication | Action Required | MOT Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dangerous | Immediate risk to road safety or serious environmental impact. | Must not be driven. Immediate repairs required. | Fail |
| Major | Compromises vehicle safety or affects other road users/environment. | Requires immediate repair. | Fail |
| Minor | No significant risk to safety or environment. | Repair as soon as possible. | Pass |
| Advisory | Item needs monitoring; potential future issue. | Monitor and repair if necessary. | Pass |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What happens if my car fails its MOT?
If your vehicle fails its MOT due to a 'Dangerous' or 'Major' defect, you will receive a refusal of an MOT certificate. You must have the necessary repairs carried out. You can then have the vehicle re-tested. Depending on the nature of the failure, you might be able to leave the test centre if the defect is not deemed immediately dangerous, but you must get it repaired before driving it again.
Q2: Can I drive my car if it has a 'Minor' defect?
Yes, a vehicle with only 'Minor' defects will pass its MOT. However, you should arrange for these minor issues to be repaired as soon as you reasonably can to maintain your vehicle's safety and prevent them from developing into more serious problems.
Q3: What is the difference between a 'Major' defect and an 'Advisory'?
A 'Major' defect means your vehicle has failed the MOT and requires immediate repair to be roadworthy. An 'Advisory' is a recommendation for future maintenance; it doesn't cause a fail on the current test but suggests an area to monitor or address soon.
Q4: How do I know when my MOT is due?
You can use the free MOT reminder service offered by the government. You can opt to receive reminders via text message or email approximately one month before your MOT is due. This helps you avoid driving a vehicle without a valid MOT, which can incur a fine of up to £1,000.
Q5: Are the MOT test fees changing?
No, the maximum fees that MOT test centres are permitted to charge remain unchanged. The threshold for requiring an MOT remains at three years old for most vehicles, despite discussions about potentially increasing this to four years, as the current three-year rule is maintained for road safety reasons.
By familiarising yourself with these defect categories and the updated MOT procedures, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe, compliant, and passes its test with confidence. Regular maintenance and addressing advisories promptly are key to avoiding unexpected failures and ensuring your vehicle is always in good condition.
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