MOT changes 2023: Major update to test and check services adds safety recall warnings.
- Are you a 2nd plus owner of a motorcycle? If so, then you should read this in case your motorcycle has an outstanding manufacturer recall.
- A major change to the MOT process means drivers will now be warned of outstanding safety recalls on their cars as part of the annual test.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), which oversees the test, has secured agreements with several of the biggest motorcycle companies to include real-time recall tracking in MOT results.
The change, which came into effect on 19 July, means that riders will be alerted to any recalls when they receive their motorcycle MOT pass or fail certificate, making it easier to keep track of any outstanding work that is required.
Major vehicle manufacturers including Honda have signed up for the new scheme.
Previously, recall information has been available as part of an MOT status check. However, this has only been offered via the online MOT checker and has been based on monthly information.
The new system sees manufacturers provide live data directly to the DVSA’s digital system, allowing Belle Vue Honda Motorcycles to automatically identify motorcycles with outstanding recalls as they are being tested. Our testers will tell riders of any recall notices as well as including the information on the test certificate.
The DVSA says it is actively working to add more brands to the scheme but for those not yet signed up to the DVSA programme, existing SMMT data will continue to be used.
From August, the online MOT checker will also be updated to include the real-time recall information and riders signed up to the MOT reminder text message service will receive notification of any recalls at the same time as their reminder.
Chris Price, DVSA’s head of MOT policy, said: “This is a huge step forward in bringing recall information direct to motorists. By adding the information to the MOT certificate and our popular digital services we can make it easier for motorists and improve safety recall uptake rates, helping everyone keep Britain’s road among the safest in the world.”
Vehicle safety recalls are fairly common, with manufacturers issuing them as potential problems come to light. In the first half of 2022, almost 400,000 recall notices were issued in Britain, with some vehicles affected by more than one fault.
Manufacturers should contact owners directly to alert them to any recalls but some alerts don’t reach the current keeper of the vehicles, meaning the new system is a useful way to alert drivers to any necessary work.
Please contact us here at Belle Vue Honda Motorcycles if your Honda motorcycle has or if you believe it may have an outstanding safety recall. We will always be happy to check for you.
☏ 01702 464945
✉ bikes@bellevuemotors.com
