Direct Answer: An MOT advisory is a minor fault recorded by the tester that does not prevent the vehicle from passing its MOT. It serves as a warning that an item is wearing out and will require repair in the near future.
The DVSA Defect Categorisation System
Since the updated testing framework was introduced, all vehicle defects found during an MOT are classified into three distinct categories of severity:
| Defect Class | MOT Result | Is it Legal to Drive? | Required Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dangerous | FAIL | No. Instant driving ban. | Tow or repair immediately before moving. |
| Major | FAIL | Only to go to a pre-booked repair. | Repair before driving anywhere else. |
| Advisory | PASS | Yes. Legal to drive. | Monitor and address during next service. |
Most Common MOT Advisory Items
Advisories are common, affecting more than 40% of vehicles that pass their test. The most frequently logged items are:
- Tyre Wear: Tyres with a tread depth between 1.6mm (legal minimum) and 3mm are routinely issued advisories.
- Thin Brake Pads: Brake pads that are approaching 1.5mm remaining thickness.
- Worn Brake Discs: Discs showing surface pitting or slight scoring that hasn't compromised structural thickness yet.
- Suspension Bushing Play: Slight movement or cracking in rubber suspension mounts.
Warning on Insurance: While an advisory is legal to drive with, you have a duty of care to ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. If an advisory deteriorates into a dangerous failure and you are involved in a collision, you could be prosecuted.