Every UK vehicle owner should know what an MOT certificate is. Yet, what many overlook is the importance of checking their MOT certificate for mistakes.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the relevance of the MOT certificate, common MOT certificate mistakes and the process of amending any inaccuracies.
What is an MOT certificate?
An MOT certificate is the official document provided in the United Kingdom that affirms a vehicle's roadworthiness. This certificate is a result of the MOT test, an annual examination mandatory for vehicles over three years old, covering various aspects such as safety, roadworthiness, and exhaust emissions.
7 common MOT certificate mistakes
Despite being a standardised document, MOT certificates can occasionally contain mistakes. Here are 7 common mistakes that could be found on an MOT certificate:
Why should you check your MOT certificate for mistakes?
While it may seem like a tedious task, checking your MOT certificate for mistakes can be of significant benefit. A wrongly noted MOT certificate mistake could lead to legal issues, particularly if the errors involve your vehicle's identity or status of roadworthiness. Here’s 6 reasons why you should check your MOT certificate for mistakes:
How to amend or fix MOT certificate mistakes
If you discover an error in your MOT certificate, it's essential to take immediate action to rectify it.
You should start by contacting the MOT test centre where the inspection was conducted. Explain the issue to them, and if the mistake originated from their end, they’ll provide a replacement MOT certificate with the corrected information.
There are also some rules when it comes to fixing MOT certificate mistakes.
Getting the wrong mileage corrected for an MOT test less than 28 days ago:
The MOT tester will check the mileage and if it was indeed wrong, they will provide you with a replacement MOT certificate.
Getting the wrong mileage corrected for an MOT test more than 28 days ago:
You will need to report this to the DVSA by emailing them at motreplacement@dvsa.gov.uk
You will need to email them photo proof of what the mileage should be, and be able to prove that the photo was taken on the same date as the MOT test.
We recommend taking a picture of your mileage the day of your MOT test in case you’re ever in this situation
Getting vehicle details or MOT test centre details corrected
Email the DVSA at motreplacement@dvsa.gov.uk if your MOT certificate has the wrong vehicle make, model, colour, country where it was registered or MOT test centre.
Add or remove test records from your MOT history
If there’s a test record that’s missing, or one that doesn’t belong to your vehicle, you will need to email the DVSA customer service centre at enquiries@dvsa.gov.uk or call them on 0300 123 9000.
You will need to provide them with your:
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In conclusion, ensuring that your MOT certificate is error-free is an integral part of responsible vehicle ownership. Remember, an accurate MOT certificate maintains your vehicle's legal status, protects its value, and supports overall road safety. So, next time you receive your MOT result, make sure you check your MOT certificate thoroughly.