MOT advisories: what they mean when you're buying
An advisory is a note from the MOT tester about something that passed but may need attention soon. On a car you're thinking of buying, advisories are a useful list of things to check and ask about.
Advisories aren't failures
A car can pass its MOT with several advisories. They usually cover parts that are wearing, such as brake pads, tyres or bushes, or small problems like minor oil leaks or light corrosion. Some will need sorting soon; others can be watched for years.
Check a car's advisories in plain English
Free: every MOT, every defect explained in plain English, mileage, tax and ULEZ.
How to use them when buying
- Read the advisories from the last test first: they're the most likely to need work soon.
- Look for the same advisory across several years. Ask whether that part has been replaced since.
- Ask for receipts for any work done on advised items.
- Check the advised parts yourself at the viewing where you can, such as tyre tread and visible rust.
- Factor likely repair costs into what you offer, and get a quote if you're unsure.
Common advisories and what to check
- Brake pads or discs wearing: ask when the brakes were last done and listen for grinding on the test drive.
- Tyres close to the legal limit or cracking: check the tread and sidewalls; budget for new tyres if needed.
- Corrosion: look at the area mentioned, especially near suspension mountings and the sills.
- Oil leak: look under the car and around the engine, and check the oil level.
- Suspension parts with play or worn bushes: listen for knocks and check the car drives straight.
When to ask for an inspection
If there are lots of advisories, repeat advisories on safety parts like brakes, steering or suspension, or corrosion near structural areas, an independent inspection by a qualified mechanic is worth the cost before you buy.
MOT defects mentioned here
More guides
General information for buying or selling a used car in Great Britain, not advice about a particular car. Rules can change: check GOV.UK for the latest on tax, MOTs and selling a vehicle, and have any car you're buying inspected by a qualified mechanic.