What Are MOT Advisories and Failures?

When your vehicle undergoes an MOT test, the results may include advisories and failures. Understanding these terms is key to knowing your car’s condition and planning for necessary repairs. In this guide, we’ll explain what MOT advisories and failures are, how to interpret them, and how CarOwl’s MOT check service can help you access detailed records.

What Are MOT Advisories?

MOT advisories are notes from the tester about issues that didn’t cause the vehicle to fail but may need attention soon. These are typically minor problems, such as slightly worn tyres or small cracks in the windscreen. Advisories serve as a warning that the parts may need replacing or repairing in the near future.

What Are MOT Failures?

An MOT failure occurs when a vehicle does not meet the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the UK government. If your car fails the MOT test, it means there are serious defects that need to be fixed before the vehicle can be deemed roadworthy. Common reasons for MOT failures include faulty brakes, defective lights, or excessive emissions.

How to Check MOT Advisories and Failures Online

You can check MOT advisories and failures using free tools like the GOV.UK service or CarOwl’s MOT check. Here’s how:

1. Visit the GOV.UK MOT History Checker: Go to the GOV.UK MOT history checker page.
2. Enter Your Vehicle Registration Number (VRN): Input your car’s VRN and click “Check MOT history.”
3. Review Advisories and Failures: The results will show a summary of advisories and any failures noted during previous tests.

Get Detailed MOT Records with CarOwl

While the GOV.UK tool provides basic information, CarOwl offers a comprehensive paid report that includes a full list of MOT advisories and detailed failure records. Here’s what you get with CarOwl:

• Full List of Advisories: See all advisories noted during past MOT tests, helping you plan for upcoming maintenance.
• Detailed Failure Information: Access specific details about the defects that caused the vehicle to fail previous MOT tests.
• Free MOT and Tax Status Check: Verify your car’s current MOT and tax status instantly using your VRN at CarOwl’s MOT Check.

How to Interpret MOT Advisories and Failures

Understanding MOT advisories and failures helps you determine the urgency of repairs. Here’s what to consider:

• Minor Advisories: These are usually small issues that don’t require immediate action but should be monitored, such as slightly worn brake pads.
• Major Advisories: Advisories marked as “major” should be addressed sooner rather than later, as they could worsen and lead to an MOT failure in the future.
• Serious Failures: If your car fails the MOT test, the defects must be repaired before the vehicle can be driven legally (except to a pre-booked test appointment).

Tips for Handling MOT Advisories and Failures

Here are some practical tips for dealing with MOT advisories and failures:

• Address Issues Promptly: Don’t ignore advisories, as they may lead to more severe problems if left unchecked.
• Get a Professional Inspection: If you’re unsure about the severity of an advisory, consider getting a mechanic to assess the issue.
• Plan for Repairs: Use the information from the MOT check to budget for upcoming repairs and maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions About MOT Advisories and Failures

Here are some common questions about MOT advisories and failures:

• Can I drive my car if it has advisories? Yes, advisories don’t prevent you from driving, but the issues may need attention soon to avoid future failures.
• What happens if my car fails the MOT test? If your car fails the MOT test, you must fix the defects before the vehicle can pass the test and be considered roadworthy.
• Can I see all MOT advisories for free? The free check shows basic status. To view the complete list of advisories, upgrade to a paid report from CarOwl.

Conclusion

Understanding MOT advisories and failures is crucial for keeping your vehicle safe and roadworthy. Use the GOV.UK checker for a quick look, or visit CarOwl’s MOT Check to access a detailed report. Stay informed and address any issues promptly to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Read our other articles: