Over the past year, countless drivers who brushed off advisory notices during their MOTs ended up facing the consequences — from inconvenient breakdowns to serious accidents. It’s a sobering reality: those “minor” warnings are often the first signs of major problems.
Nearly half of all vehicles tested recently came back with at least one advisory. These notices don’t mean an immediate fail, but they do flag issues that could easily turn into serious faults. Think tyres nearing the legal tread limit, brake pads on their last legs, or small oil leaks that could quickly escalate.
Many drivers do take advisories seriously and get them sorted straight away. But worryingly, around four in ten admit they’ve either ignored them or have no plans to fix the problems. Even some motorists with a clean bill of health at their last MOT confessed to overlooking advisories in the past.
Neglecting them doesn’t just risk your car’s performance — it can put lives in danger. Driving a vehicle that isn’t roadworthy can land you with a hefty fine, penalty points, or even invalidate your insurance.
Tyres were the most frequently flagged issue in advisories last year, followed by problems with brakes, suspension, lights, and rust. Some of these — like replacing a bulb or checking your tyre tread — are fairly simple. But others need professional attention. Leave them too long, and they can turn into costly repairs or, worse, safety hazards.
Just over a third of drivers who received advisories got them fixed immediately at the MOT garage. Most, however, delayed repairs — with some waiting over a month before doing anything about it.
That delay can be dangerous. In the last year alone, more than a thousand road incidents were linked to vehicle defects — including several fatal crashes. It’s the highest total in years and a clear sign that we need to take maintenance more seriously.
Motoring experts point out that while MOTs are a legal requirement, they’re not a guarantee of long-term safety. Advisory notices are early warnings — a signal that something could soon go wrong. Depending on how and where you drive, some issues can worsen in a matter of weeks.
They also highlight the importance of regular maintenance between MOTs. While many drivers are confident handling basic checks, more technical problems often go unnoticed without a proper service. Regular servicing can catch wear and tear early — before it becomes dangerous or expensive.
At the end of the day, the MOT gives you a snapshot of your vehicle’s condition — but it’s not a substitute for year-round care. Staying on top of advisories and keeping up with servicing keeps your car safe, legal, and on the road — exactly where it should be.
Get in touch with Segensworth Automobiles, specialists in MOT, servicing and tyres. We’re here to ensure that your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy. Call us today on 01489 662 000 or email sales@segensworth-automobiles.co.uk to book an appointment.