Should I buy a car with MOT advisories?

Buying a car with MOT advisories can be reasonable, but ensure you understand the issues involved. Advisories indicate potential problems that could escalate.

How serious are advisories on MOT?

MOT advisories highlight issues that are not immediately dangerous but may require attention soon. They are warnings to keep an eye on.

Can an advisory be removed from an MOT?

Advisories remain on record unless proven to be entered in error. Fixing the issue does not remove the advisory from the DVSA record.

Can you pass MOT with advisory?

Yes, you can pass an MOT with advisories. They are not serious enough to cause a failure but indicate that attention may be needed.

What does MOT advisory mean? Plain English explanation

TL;DR

MOT advisories are warnings issued during a vehicle’s MOT test that indicate potential issues needing future attention. While they do not prevent a pass, they should not be ignored as they can lead to more significant problems.

Key facts

MOT advisories are not failures but indicate issues that may need future attention.
They are recorded on the MOT certificate and can affect resale value.
Advisories can highlight safety concerns or maintenance needs.
Ignoring advisories can lead to more significant and costly repairs down the line.

What is an MOT advisory?

An MOT advisory is a note made by the tester during a vehicle’s annual MOT (Ministry of Transport) test, assessing whether a vehicle meets necessary safety and environmental standards. Advisories indicate that certain aspects of the vehicle may require attention soon, such as worn brake pads or a small oil leak. They serve as an early warning system for vehicle maintenance.

How are MOT advisories different from failures?

MOT advisories differ from failures as they do not prevent a vehicle from passing the MOT test. A failure indicates a serious problem that must be rectified for the vehicle to be deemed roadworthy. In contrast, an advisory suggests that while the vehicle is currently safe to drive, there are issues that could escalate if not addressed, such as a slightly corroded exhaust.

What should you do if your vehicle has an MOT advisory?

If your vehicle has received an MOT advisory, it is advisable to take the following steps:

Review the advisory details: Understand what the advisory is about and how urgent the issue is.
Prioritise repairs: Some advisories may require immediate attention, while others can wait. Prioritise based on safety and potential costs.
Consult a mechanic: If unsure about the severity of the advisory, consult a qualified mechanic for their opinion.
Keep records: Maintain a record of advisories and any repairs made, as this can be useful for future MOT tests and when selling the vehicle.

Should you buy a car with MOT advisories?

Buying a car with MOT advisories can be reasonable, but it is essential to approach it with caution. Advisories indicate potential issues that may need addressing. Before making a purchase, consider the following:

Severity of advisories: Assess how serious the advisories are and whether they are likely to lead to significant repair costs.
Negotiation: Use the advisories as a bargaining chip to negotiate a lower price.
Future costs: Factor in the potential costs of repairs when considering your budget for the vehicle.

What people are asking

How serious are advisories on MOT? Advisories indicate potential issues that may require attention but are not immediate dangers.
Can an advisory be removed from an MOT? Advisories remain on record unless proven to be entered in error.
Can you pass MOT with advisory? Yes, a vehicle can pass an MOT even with advisories noted.