DVSA urgent warning to drivers to check car with MOT tester

cars parked in the street
-Credit:Getty Images


By 2025, drivers might remain unaware of 'outstanding recalls' on their cars, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has warned. Recall notices are essential alarms about severe defects in vehicles that demand urgent attention.

Neglecting these reminders could pose massive safety risks to all road users. The DVSA used X—previously known as Twitter —to inform owners: "Why stall? Check for recalls. If your vehicle has an outstanding recall, it will appear on your MOT certificate."

Moreover, the agency assures that "Your MOT tester can tell you: what the fault is, who you should contact. Vehicle recalls help protect vehicle owners and road users from unsafe products." Convenience is key as drivers can swiftly identify any recall for their vehicle via their MOT test papers.

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Cars parked in residential street in London.
Drivers need to check one thing on their MOT certificate. -Credit:Getty Images

Industry giants such as Ford, Toyota, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen keep the DVLA current with updates. This prompt update mechanism ensures that all recent recalls are reflected on the MOT certificates, enabling car owners to address issues immediately.

Generally, manufacturers shoulder the expense for recall repairs; vehicle owners just need to reach out to a dealer to arrange the service. For those who invested in brand-new vehicles, they're likely still receiving direct alerts about new recalls.

However, second-hand car owners might face challenges if manufacturers lack their correct contact details to communicate crucial recall information.

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Sue Robinson, chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), has been vocal about the NFDA's long-standing campaign for recall notices to be included in MOT tests.

The Government's website offers clear guidance on this issue, stating: "Find out if the manufacturer has recalled a vehicle, part or accessory because of a serious safety problem."

A middle-aged woman driving a car
Motorists may be unaware of 'outstanding recalls' on their vehicles in 2025. -Credit:Getty Images

It further instructs car owners: "You need to get your car fixed or replaced by the manufacturer if there's a problem. You will not usually have to pay for any repairs or parts."

The advice continues with: "If your vehicle has a serious safety defect, the manufacturer will write to you to tell you what to do. You must not drive the vehicle. You can also check if the vehicle, part or accessory has a fault that's been registered with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)."