Reducing MOT failure rates this autumn
As we head into the busiest time of year for MOT testing, with an estimated 3.1 million cars’ MOTs expiring in October 2024 (according to the DVSA forecast), it’s crucial for dealerships, factors and garages to focus on one of the most common, yet often overlooked, reasons for MOT failures: non-compliant number plates, says Tennants UK.
The DVLA has issued multiple warnings about the risks of non-compliance, stating that incorrectly displayed number plates could lead to a £1,000 fine and immediate MOT failure. As the new ‘74’ vehicle registration plates rolled out this September, this issue is more relevant than ever.
It’s not just about avoiding penalties; ensuring that number plates meet legal standards is essential for road safety and vehicle identification, warns Tennants.
In the last few years, number plate non-compliance has become a significant contributor to MOT failure rates, with DVSA data showing a steady increase in initial test failures. Whether it’s due to incorrect spacing, the use of illegal fonts or damaged plates, these seemingly minor issues can result in major setbacks for vehicle owners.
The latest IAAF and GIPA Intelligence Roundup Report on MOT seasonality highlights that more than 30 million MOT tests were conducted in 2023. As the testing volume rises in autumn, garages need to be well-prepared to ensure that vehicles passing through their doors are road-legal, especially when it comes to number plate compliance.
A failure to address this could lead to higher MOT failure rates and a loss of trust among customers who rely on garages to keep their vehicles roadworthy.
Stephen Archer, Business Development and Marketing Manager at Tennants UK, said: “For the automotive aftermarket, ensuring compliance isn’t just a matter of regulation – it’s about protecting your business and customers. During peak MOT months like September and October, when demand is at its highest, having the right equipment to produce fully compliant number plates is essential. This ensures vehicles pass their MOTs and remain on the road, preventing costly returns and customer dissatisfaction.
Tennants has seen firsthand how proper preparation and investment in the right tools can make all the difference.
Garages and dealerships that invest in high-quality, compliant number plate printing systems are better positioned to manage the increased demand during MOT season. Tennants offers a comprehensive range of number plate solutions, designed to meet all regulatory standards, including those set by the BS AU 145e standard.
Its state-of-the-art printing systems include advanced software that automatically checks for compliance, ensuring that every plate adheres to the correct size, spacing and font. In addition to this, Tennants offers a backup service for number plate production, providing next-day dispatch to prevent stock shortages during busy periods. This is crucial for garages that need to maintain a steady supply of compliant plates as the volume of MOT tests increases.