Dangerous MOT failures reach record high

MOT failures due to major safety concerns has reached a record high, according to DVSA figures.

It has reported that 684,746 vehicles failed their tests between October and December last year due to dangerous safety defects.

Across the entire year, nearly two million vehicles failed MOTs in 2023.

The most common cause of MOT failure was brake-related issues, which accounted for 29%. Issues with lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment made up a quarter of the failures, followed by suspension issues, with 19%.

In total, 8,396,179 MOTs were carried out during 2023. More than 1.8 million failed due to non-safety related issues.

The government announced revisions to MOTs in January after consulting industry about potential updates. It confirmed that first tests will continue to be carried out on new cars three years after purchase, with tests remaining annual thereafter.

Meanwhile, the government committed to carrying out further investigations into incorporating emissions testing for diesels into MOTs, and updating the process to reflect new technologies such as ADAS.

Neil Barlow, Head of Vehicle Policy at DVSA, said:

“Ensuring the MOT remains fit for the future is a key part of DVSA’s work and getting ready for new technology will help keep Britain’s roads safe.”