You’ve just passed your MOT — hooray! 

But what’s this? A list of MOT advisories? 

MOT advisories are small or potential future problems that should be checked as soon as possible. 

In this article, we’ll explain how to navigate MOT advisories, how long you have to fix them, how to stay safe, and other frequently asked questions. 

What is an MOT advisory?

MOT advisories highlight potential issues or minor problems identified during your car’s MOT test. 

While they don’t pose an immediate safety risk, they could develop into more serious issues over time. Addressing advisories promptly is essential to maintaining your vehicle’s safety and preventing costly repairs later.

MOT advisories are given to inform owners about upcoming maintenance needs. This helps prevent future MOT failures, ensures road safety, and helps you prepare for future inspections.  

MOT advisories vs MOT failures

MOT advisories alert drivers to potential issues that, while not immediate safety concerns, may require attention in the future. 

In contrast, MOT failures highlight severe defects that demand instant repair to comply with road safety standards and legal frameworks.

The critical difference between MOT advisories and failures lies in the level of danger and the urgency of action needed. Don’t take advisories too lightly, though. You must still get these checked out quickly.

Are MOT advisories important?

Yes, MOT advisories are an important element of maintaining your vehicle’s safety and overall performance. 

MOTs advisories and future issues

While they’re not as urgent as MOT failures, they highlight potential danger in the future and may worsen over time if you don’t address them. 

For example, if you get a corrosion or car rust advisory and don’t fix it, the rust may spread to other parts of the car and weaken its structure. This will lead to a future MOT failure.

Ignoring MOT advisories won’t just lead to a bad MOT test. It can also result in breakdowns, higher repair costs, or even road accidents. So, it’s vital that you make repairs as needed.

MOT advisories and car performance

Alongside preventing future issues, keeping on top of MOT advisories improves your car’s performance. 

When your car is in good condition, it delivers a smoother drive, improved fuel efficiency, and less wear and tear from daily usage.

Plus, a well-maintained car has a higher resale value. So, if you plan to sell your car in the future, you should keep it in tip-top condition.

How long do I have to fix an MOT advisory?

MOT advisories don’t come with strict deadlines. They offer guidance on what to fix rather than safety concerns with deadlines.

However, it’s best practice to fix them as soon as possible. This will make your car safer and less likely to get worse.

What if I don’t fix an MOT advisory?

Leaving an MOT advisory can lead to higher repair costs, future MOT failures, and an unsafe car. 

Most will worsen over time, so you should address them quickly while there’s no specific repair deadline. This is vital for your safety and will save you time and money in the long run.

Common MOT advisories 

Some MOT advisories are more common than others. Here are the ones UK drivers are most likely to see:

• Brake pads — These need to be replaced when the lining starts to erode.
• Corrosion — Rust can spread to the structure of your car and cause MOT failures.
• Lights — Lights with faults (e.g., blown or dim) will need to be replaced. Likewise, garages may suggest replacing old lights.
• General wear and tear — Scratches, bumps, and dents can cause long-term internal damage.
• Tyre health — Perhaps the most common MOT advisory. Tyre tread depth is crucial for road safety, especially in the winter.

Should I buy a car with MOT advisories?

Buying a car with MOT advisories can be a reasonable idea, but only if you know what to look for. 

Advisories show that the vehicle has problems that may become major issues. This can cost you time, money, and safety.

Don’t assume that a car is road-safe just because someone’s selling it. Always ask to see the car’s log book, check MOT details and ask for a professional opinion before you buy.

Other tips for buying a car with MOT advisories include:

• Estimate the potential repair costs before you buy
• Make sure the advisories won’t compromise your road safety
• Ask an independent mechanic to review the car
• Request a detailed history of repairs and maintenance
• Consider the car’s mileage and age

How can I check a car’s MOT history?

Checking a car's MOT history helps uncover past issues, such as failed tests or recurring advisories. 

It can also verify the car's maintenance and repair history, ensuring you're making an informed decision and avoiding unexpected costs or safety risks.

Here's a quick step-by-step guide to checking a car's MOT history:

1. Visit the UK GOV website for MOT histories
2. Enter the car's registration number
3. Read through the MOT results, noting past MOT dates, advisories, failures, and mileage
4. Remember any repeated advisories or failures to assess the car's condition

Conclusion

As long as you address them in good time, MOT advisories aren’t anything to worry about! 

However, this is your reminder not to put them off. Leaving them can lead to safety and performance issues, and you’ll have to spend a chunk of cash fixing larger problems. 

How Bumper can help

MOT advisory repairs and failure costs can set you back. However, Bumper’s here to help you navigate these frustrating expenses.

You can split the cost of MOT advisories and failure costs into manageable, interest-free monthly payments with Bumper.