When you receive your MOT results, you might breathe a sigh of relief if your car passes. However, if there are a few advisories listed, ignoring them could cost you far more down the road. These minor issues may not cause an immediate MOT failure, but they often act as early warning signs of developing problems. Over time, neglecting them can lead to expensive repairs, unsafe driving conditions, or even a failed MOT at your next test.

What Are MOT Advisories?

MOT advisories are notes made by the MOT tester to highlight parts that are worn, deteriorating, or close to failing. While the car passes its MOT, these advisories signal that attention will soon be required.

Examples include:

• Slightly worn brake pads
• Tyres nearing the legal tread limit
• Small exhaust leaks
• Suspension components showing early wear

You can view your car’s full MOT history and advisories on CheckMot.com.

Why Drivers Often Ignore Advisories

Many drivers overlook advisories because they assume the car is “fine for now” or want to delay repair costs. However, what starts as a minor issue can worsen quickly with regular use. For example, slightly worn brake pads may become dangerously thin within a few thousand miles, while a small exhaust leak can escalate into a costly replacement.

Ignoring advisories might save you money in the short term, but it usually leads to larger repair bills later.

The Long-Term Consequences of Neglect

Over time, neglected advisories can have a significant impact on both your wallet and your safety:

1. Increased MOT Failure Risk

A previously minor advisory often turns into a major defect by the next MOT test, leading to an automatic failure. This not only means additional repair costs but also the inconvenience of rebooking and retesting.

2. Higher Repair Costs

Fixing small issues early is usually much cheaper. For instance, replacing worn brake pads is far more affordable than replacing damaged brake discs caused by extended wear.

3. Reduced Vehicle Safety

Many advisories affect critical components like tyres, brakes, and suspension. Neglecting these can compromise handling and braking performance — especially in wet or icy conditions.

4. Lower Resale Value

A car with unresolved advisories in its MOT history can deter buyers or lower its market value. Regularly addressing advisories keeps your MOT record clean and your car more attractive to future buyers.

Best Practices for Managing MOT Advisories

• Check advisories after each MOT: Use CheckMot.com to track advisories over time.
• Schedule preventative maintenance: Don’t wait for issues to worsen. Address them at your next service.
• Keep maintenance records: Documentation of repairs reassures future buyers and shows responsible ownership.

FAQs

1. Do advisories mean my car is unsafe?

Not immediately, but they indicate parts that are wearing out or deteriorating. It’s best to monitor and repair them soon.

2. Can advisories cause an MOT failure next year?

Yes, if the issue worsens, it could turn into a major defect, resulting in a failed MOT.

3. Are advisories visible to buyers?

Yes. All advisories are recorded in your car’s public MOT history, which anyone can view online.

4. How soon should I fix an advisory?

It depends on the severity, but addressing them within a few months is generally recommended.

Neglecting MOT advisories may seem harmless at first, but over time, they can lead to serious faults and costly repairs. Regularly reviewing your MOT record through CheckMot.com ensures you stay on top of maintenance and keep your car roadworthy year-round.