Understanding MOT Advisories: What They Mean for Your Car

When your vehicle goes through its MOT test, the result isn’t always a simple pass or fail. Often, you’ll find a section labelled “Advisories” on your MOT certificate. But what exactly are MOT advisories, and how do they impact your car and future MOTs?

What Are MOT Advisories?

MOT advisories are notes made by the tester about issues that aren’t serious enough to cause a fail but could become a problem later. These are recommendations for repair or maintenance to keep your car safe and roadworthy.

Common Examples of MOT Advisories

• Tyres Close to Legal Limit – Your tyres may pass now but are nearing the minimum tread depth (1.6mm).
• Brake Pads Wearing Thin – They work for now but need replacing soon.
• Exhaust Corrosion – Rust has started, but it’s not yet causing a leak.
• Fluid Leaks – Small oil or coolant leaks that don’t yet affect safety.

These warnings give you an early heads-up, helping you budget for future repairs before they become urgent or expensive.

Are MOT Advisories Mandatory to Fix?

No, advisories are not legally required to be fixed for your vehicle to remain road-legal. However, ignoring them could lead to:

• Costlier repairs later.
• A possible MOT failure next year.
• Safety risks if the problem worsens.

How Long Do MOT Advisories Stay on Record?

Advisories appear on your MOT certificate and are stored in the DVLA’s MOT history database. You can check them anytime using CheckMOT.com. This information is also visible to potential buyers, so addressing advisories can protect your car’s resale value.

Why You Should Act on Advisories

Fixing advisories promptly helps:

• Improve vehicle safety for you and other road users.
• Avoid MOT failures in the next test.
• Save money by dealing with small issues before they become major repairs.

How to Track MOT Advisories Easily

Use CheckMOT.com to:

• View your full MOT history.
• Check past advisories.
• Book your next MOT online in minutes.

Conclusion

MOT advisories are not just casual suggestions—they are essential warnings that help you maintain your car in top condition. Don’t wait for minor issues to become major problems. Stay on top of your MOT status and advisories by visiting CheckMOT.com today.