Is It Legal to Remove Advisories from an MOT Test?

MOT advisories are advisory, but they are still official warnings recorded against your vehicle. According to GOV.UK guidance, the only way to remove an advisory is to demonstrate that the tester entered it in error. Otherwise, it stays in the DVSA record forever, even if you fix the issue the next day.

Why Advisories Exist

Advisories highlight components that are borderline now but could become dangerous before the next test. They help you budget for maintenance and provide transparency when buying or selling. Use our free MOT report to see historical advisories alongside failures and passes.

Can Garages Remove Them?

Garages cannot delete advisories on request. DVSA monitors MOT testers closely, and attempting to alter a record without evidence is fraud. If an advisory was logged by mistake, the tester must submit a correction request—with proof—to the agency. Otherwise, the note stays attached to that test entry for life.

Showing That Work Has Been Done

Because advisories remain visible, document the fix so future buyers can see progress. Keep:

  • Invoices for the part and labour.
  • Photos before and after the repair.
  • A fresh VehicleScore report showing the advisory is only historic.

Buying a Car with Advisories

If a seller claims they have removed advisories, ask for the paperwork instead. Compare the MOT record with a mileage check and the common failure list to see whether the car has recurring issues. If you’re unsure, book a pre-purchase inspection for peace of mind.

Advisory Fix Checklist

  • Log the advisory in your maintenance plan and tackle it within 30 days.
  • Photograph the worn component to prove the repair was necessary.
  • Store digital copies of invoices alongside your VehicleScore reports.
  • Re-run the MOT before selling so buyers see a clean latest certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Once an MOT advisory is recorded, it becomes part of the DVSA digital history. A tester can only correct it if there was a clear clerical error and they submit evidence to DVSA.

Keep invoices, photos, or an inspection report. On your next MOT, the tester will note the item again only if it remains a problem. Buyers like to see paperwork plus a clean VehicleScore report.

Significant advisories (tyres, brakes, rust) can impact valuations because they hint at future spending. Tackling them quickly keeps premiums stable and reassures potential buyers.

Is It Legal to Remove Advisories from an MOT Test? | VehicleScore