MOT advisory check
An MOT advisory check identifies potential issues noted during MOT tests that do not cause the vehicle to fail but may need attention in the future. This check helps buyers understand potential maintenance needs and identify recurring issues that may indicate ongoing problems.
Why this matters
MOT advisories indicate potential issues that may require future repairs or maintenance. Recurring advisories may indicate ongoing problems that have not been properly addressed. Understanding advisories helps buyers assess potential future costs and maintenance needs before purchasing a vehicle.
What can happen if you skip it
- You may miss potential issues that could require expensive repairs
- You may not identify recurring problems that indicate ongoing issues
- You may face unexpected maintenance costs shortly after purchase
- You may purchase a vehicle with unresolved mechanical issues
- Advisories may become failures in future MOT tests
What to look for before buying
- Run a vehicle history check to view all MOT advisories
- Check for recurring advisories that may indicate ongoing issues
- Review the most recent MOT test for current advisories
- Consider the cost of addressing any current advisories
- Have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic if advisories are present
- Ask the seller about any work done to address previous advisories
How a vehicle history check helps
A vehicle history check provides complete MOT history from official DVSA records, showing all advisories noted at each test. This helps buyers identify recurring issues, assess potential maintenance needs, and understand the vehicle's condition over time. The check reveals patterns that may indicate ongoing problems.
What a Carpeep vehicle history check can show
- Theft and recovery status, including whether the vehicle has been reported stolen
- Write-off category (Cat S, Cat N, Cat A, Cat B, Cat C, Cat D) and date of write-off
- Outstanding finance agreements, including provider name, agreement type, and start date
- Mileage inconsistencies and potential odometer rollbacks, automatically flagged
- Keeper changes and number of previous owners
- MOT history timeline, including all test dates, pass/fail results, advisories, and recorded mileage at each test
- Vehicle identity verification
Related guides
Learn more about MOT issues: What does MOT advisory mean? and What does MOT failure mean?
Frequently asked questions
What is an MOT advisory?
An MOT advisory is a note about a potential issue that does not cause the vehicle to fail the test but may need attention in the future. Advisories are recorded on the MOT certificate and should be addressed to prevent future failures or safety issues.
Should I be concerned about MOT advisories?
It depends on the nature of the advisory and whether it recurs. Minor advisories that are addressed may not be a concern, but recurring advisories may indicate ongoing problems. You should have the vehicle inspected and consider the cost of addressing any current advisories.
Can MOT advisories become failures?
Yes, if an advisory is not addressed, it may worsen and cause the vehicle to fail a future MOT test. Advisories are intended to alert owners to potential issues before they become serious problems or safety concerns.
How can I check MOT advisories?
You can check MOT advisories by running a vehicle history check using the vehicle's registration number. The check will show all advisories noted at each MOT test, helping you identify recurring issues and assess potential maintenance needs.
What should I do if a car has MOT advisories?
If a car has MOT advisories, you should have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to assess the severity of the issues. Consider the cost of addressing any current advisories and ask the seller about any work done to address previous advisories.
Are recurring MOT advisories a red flag?
Recurring MOT advisories may indicate ongoing problems that have not been properly addressed. You should investigate why the same advisory appears multiple times and consider whether the vehicle has underlying issues that may require expensive repairs.