Have you ever had an MOT test result you thought was unfair? Well, you can actually appeal it if you think it was unjust.
Appealing an MOT test result allows car owners to challenge a decision – but you need to understand the appeals process, and gather compelling evidence to prove your case. It’s not a walk in the park, but there actually have been instances where MOT test results were successfully overturned. So, to kick things off, let’s talk about the appeals process.
Appealing an MOT Test Result
The appeals process for an MOT test failure is in place to protect vehicle owners from erroneous decisions only – it’s not for blasting your local test centre or making mountains out of molehills! If you genuinely believe a test result is wrong, you’ve got to go through the process in full.
Understanding the appeals process
To start the appeals process, you’ve first got to tell the test centre that you’re going to contest the result. You then need a VT17 form, which outlines the process. Complete it and send it to the DVSA within 14 working days. The DVSA will then arrange for an independent retest of the vehicle, at an authorised test centre.
The vehicle must not undergo any repair work before this retest!
If your vehicle passes this independent retest, your appeal will be successful, and you’ll get an MOT certificate issued. But if the vehicle fails the retest, the original failure decision stands. It’s as fair as it can be – but to get to this stage, you need evidence that the decision was wrong in the first place.
Gathering evidence
To have a successful appeal, you need proof that the MOT test failure wasn’t the right decision. Evidence could be in maintenance records, repair receipts or expert assessments that you’ve had carried out. Keep all records of any work performed on your vehicle leading up to the MOT test, as these can serve as evidence, too.
Aim to show that your car is well looked after, well maintained, and that any faults claimed in the test result were found in error. Don’t attempt to fix them – this will just prove you were wrong anyway, and invalidate your appeal.
If you suspect that the original MOT test was conducted incorrectly or unfairly, document your concerns. Was the test unusual in any way? Any strange comments from the tester? Does your car’s trip computer have a reasonable mileage for an MOT test? Can you show that your car came back in a different condition from when you dropped it off for the test?
Providing a detailed account can give your case strength.
Moreover, if your vehicle failed on a specific issue, seek an independent inspection, or opinions from qualified mechanics, who can prove the roadworthiness of your vehicle. Their expert statements can carry significant weight during the appeal process.
Remember – the more comprehensive your evidence is, the stronger your appeal will be.
Are there any examples of overturned MOT test results?
Yes – we’ve heard of a vehicle that failed an MOT elsewhere, due to failing the MOT emissions test. The decision was appealed and upon retesting, it was discovered that a malfunctioning emissions testing sensor was to blame.
Having said this, it is overwhelmingly likely that an original test result will stand. MOT testing is rigorous but fair, and test centres are duty bound to keep drivers and roads safe. But although it is rare, mistakes do happen in MOT testing, and MOT test results have been successfully overturned in the past.
We also have to point out that sadly, some garages will fake results to get drivers to pay for unnecessary repairs. We think this is appalling, disgusting behaviour – and it’s why our industry has endured such a bad reputation over the years. At We Only Do MOTs, we only do MOTs for this reason; to avoid conflicts of interest, and give our customers real, accurate results.
Book your MOT
Book your MOT test in Eastleigh today, with We Only Do MOTs. We promise to provide an impartial, independent MOT to everyone – and will carry out some minor repairs for free!
Send your message to enquiries@onlydomots.co.uk or call us on 023 8064 7180
