Is it Legal to Remove Advisories from an MOT Test?
In the UK, it is illegal to tamper with or remove advisories from your MOT test. Advisories are issued during an MOT test to highlight areas of the vehicle that may not pose an immediate risk but could develop into a problem in the future. They are not a pass or fail indicator, but they help vehicle owners understand areas that might need attention in the near future.
Advisories might include issues such as worn brake pads, slight cracks in the windscreen, or slightly worn tyres that don't yet meet the legal minimum tread depth. While these issues may not result in a fail during the MOT, they can eventually worsen and lead to costly repairs. Ignoring or removing advisories can lead to serious problems down the road, and it can also have legal consequences.
Why Are Advisories Issued? Advisories are meant to inform the car owner about potential issues that could cause problems before the next MOT test. They allow you to plan repairs ahead of time, helping avoid breakdowns or more expensive repairs. They are not meant to be hidden or removed; they are an essential part of the vehicle's MOT record.
If you attempt to remove or alter advisories, this could be considered fraudulent, as it’s an attempt to conceal safety issues. Not only is this illegal, but it could also result in your car being deemed unroadworthy and potentially lead to fines or other penalties.
For peace of mind, you can check your vehicle’s MOT history, including any previous advisories, using our MOT Check page. This will give you a complete overview of your car’s test history, including advisories from past tests.
What to Do If You Receive an Advisory If your vehicle receives an advisory, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible. The MOT test ensures that your car is roadworthy at the time of inspection, but ongoing maintenance is key to keeping it in good condition. By fixing the issues highlighted in advisories, you’ll ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive and avoid more costly repairs in the future.
Regular servicing is one way to prevent the need for advisories. A service includes a more comprehensive check of your car's systems and ensures that it runs efficiently. You can easily book a service and check your car's performance through the Car BHP Check and verify mileage through the Car Mileage Check to maintain your vehicle's overall health.
Conclusion It’s important to remember that advisories are part of your car’s official MOT record, and attempting to remove or tamper with them is illegal. If you receive an advisory, it’s best to address the issue to ensure your vehicle remains in safe and roadworthy condition. You can check your vehicle’s full MOT history, including any previous advisories or failures, on our MOT Check page.
Published: 13/11/2024
Other useful links
VehicleScore CheckCar Tax CheckMOT & Tax CheckDVLA Vehicle CheckGOV.UK: Getting an MOTFrequently Asked Questions
Free Car Health Score