Skip to main content
MOT

Dangerous defect

MOT defect category for a fault that is a direct and immediate risk to road safety or the environment. The vehicle fails and must not be driven away.

Introduced in May 2018 to align with EU Directive 2014/45. A Dangerous defect causes an automatic fail and the vehicle should not be driven from the test station — driving it on the road in that condition can lead to prosecution.

Examples typically include a brake imbalance of 50% or more on the same axle, a tyre with cords exposed, or a suspension component about to separate.

← Back to the glossary