The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has announced that it is rolling out a new initiative to tackle ‘ghost MOTs’, a fraudulent service where vehicles are issued MOT certificates without the car ever being physically inspected or brought into the garage. Garages across the country will soon be required to take photos of every vehicle they test. 

Tyre experts at Blackcircles.com have commented on the new legislation and offered advice on what to do if you are issued a ghost MOT certificate. 

Nyo Logan, a specialist at Blackcircles.com, commented:

“We are extremely pleased to hear about the new initiative to tackle ghost MOTs. New information from the DVSA has shown that ghost MOTs account for 80% of all fraudulent test certificates.”

“Not only are ghost MOTs illegal, but they are also extremely dangerous. Without being physically inspected, unroadworthy and potentially lethal vehicles are allowed on public roads, putting both drivers and pedestrians at extreme risk.”

“If caught with a ghost MOT, motorists can face fines of up to £1,000, penalty points or court action. This is still the case if they did not know the certificate is fake.” 

The most common signs that your MOT is fraudulent include: 

1. Mismatched vehicle data on the official database. 
2. Mileage logged on your latest online certificate that is dramatically different from the number on your dashboard odometer. 
3. Your online record being completed in a garage you have never been to
4. Missing advisories and comments of obvious safety flaws
5. An immediate breakdown after a flawless pass certificate. 

Blackcircles.com has offered advice on what to do if you think your MOT is fraudulent. 

1. Check your vehicle record on the official GOV.UK MOT history checker
2. Report your garage or tester anonymously on the GOV.UK website
3. Book an MOT with a trusted and reputable garage 
4. Save any text messages, emails, receipts or certificates linked to the suspicious test. 

(Picture: Stanko07)