Appeals against MOT Inspections

If a motorist who has recently had a vehicle MOT tested disagrees with the outcome of the inspection, they are entitled to an appeal against the decision. The appeal must be lodged with the VOSA/DVA within twenty-eight days of the original test date if the item(s) in question are mechanical in nature.

Three months are allowed for corrosion issues, except for corrosion of brake discs, brake lines or the exhaust system. Mileage, or the lack thereof, incurred after the inspection has no relevance to the appeal even if the vehicle has not been used for several months after the test.

If the items in question are repaired, replaced or removed from the vehicle, the right of the owner to appeal becomes null and void. Failure due to items that are easily replaced, such as tyres or windscreen wiper blades, may not be appealed against, as it cannot be adequately determined if they were the ones fitted at the time of inspection.

To appeal against an MOT pass is free of charge however, to appeal against a failure will incur a fee whose value would amount to the normal maximum price of an MOT for that vehicle. This fee will then be refunded if the appellate inspection finds in favor of the motorist lodging the appeal.

If the appellate inspection finds the vehicle was incorrectly diagnosed, the VOSA/DVA takes appropriate action against the station involved. This can range from penalty points being issued for minor infringements, to the station's MOT license being rescinded for more major violations.

The VOSA/DVA has only the power to discipline the station involved and cannot pursue compensation of any kind for the complainant; that is the responsibility of Trading Standards. An MOT station cannot be held responsible for defects that occur to the vehicle several months after the test was conducted. The appeal process and how to lodge one is outlined on the reverse of the VT20 pass certificate and the VT30 failure notice.

MOT Failure Certificate

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If you are unhappy with your MOT service
If you are unhappy with the way your test was carried out please let VOSA know as it helps to know that MOT test stations are providing a good service. Contact the Area Manager at your local VOSA office. The address is shown on the Fees and Appeals poster displayed at your MOT test station or you can ring VOSA on 0300 123 9000.