Jan 7, 2019
In 2018 we saw some drastic changes to the MoT test where new categories were introduced, previously car owners who put their car through the test got a pass or a fail. Previously the testers would advise on areas that would need to be checked soon, but car owners had no real idea of the level of severity of the repairs. In 2018 a traffic light system was introduced to help car owners determine how serious or how soon their repairs will need to be looked at. In the 2018 MoT test changes, we also saw new tests introduced to make the MoT tougher for diesel vehicles.
The DVSA have new plans, they are working with the Department of Transport to see how the current MoT test can include a check on the latest safety recalls from car manufactures. It’s very common for car makers to issue recalls for vehicles, in fact, there are roughly 2.39 million cars that are subject to safety recalls in the UK.
Recalls typically include things like
It’s important to understand that not all recalls are life-threatening but they do need to be taken seriously by car owners, hence why the DVSA want these included in the MoT test. At present it’s legal for dealerships to sell vehicles that require outstanding recall work, however, there is no legal requirement for car owners to get any serious recalls fixed. Recalls are seen as a hassle for car owners even though they are FREE, with many ignoring the recall it’s often left until the issue causes a problem. If your car is due a recall you can check with your local dealership or you can check with the DVSA here. It’s important not to ignore these!
Nothing has been set in stone yet, however, the DVSA are keen to make the systems of recalls and MoT test align. So it’s likely that this will be made mandatory for car owners so they can address the issue and reduce the number of outstanding recall vehicles on the road and improve overall safety.
The main barrier is that if a recall is introduced the day before the car owner has the MoT test booked then it’s unfair to penalise based on this, the MoT must include a buffer with enough time for the car owner to have the fault fixed prior to the MoT test. There are also issues when the vehicle changes ownership and sometimes recalls are not echoed to the current car owner. These are all areas which will need to be considered if safety recalls are added to the MoT test in 2019.
Is your car MoT due in 2019? Why not compare the market and get quotes from multiple garages, dealerships and fast-fit chains in your area. Compare the price, read reviews and choose the best deal for your MoT test. By the time you’ve boiled the kettle, you could have let garages in your area know you’re in the market for an MoT or service, don’t waste time phoning. Let MyCarNeedsA.com match you to garages today!
