MOT Advisory: What It Means, Whether to Worry, and What to Do Next

15 May 2026 · 6 min read

What is an MOT advisory

An advisory is a note on your MOT certificate about something that the tester has observed but which is not yet severe enough to fail the test. The item does not meet the threshold for a fail today — but it is something worth monitoring or planning to repair before it reaches that point.

Common advisories include: tyre tread approaching the legal minimum, brake pad thickness getting low, a small corrosion patch on a brake pipe, a suspension component with some play, or a leaking seal that is not yet causing a safety risk. Each advisory will include a note describing what was observed and where.

Can I drive on an MOT advisory

Yes — an advisory does not mean the car is unsafe to drive today. The vehicle has passed its MOT. However, advisories are real observations about real wear, and the item noted will continue to deteriorate. Some advisories are years away from becoming a failure item; others may reach failure standard within a few months of heavy use.

We read every advisory to the customer and explain which ones are more urgent than others. Tyre tread close to the legal limit on a daily driver in winter is more pressing than minor surface corrosion on a brake pipe on a low-mileage car. Context matters and we give you our honest opinion on each one.

Do I have to fix advisories at the garage that did the MOT

No. You are free to have advisory items repaired anywhere you choose — or not at all, if you decide to monitor and book work elsewhere. We never pressure customers into booking repairs after an MOT. We explain the advisory, give our view on urgency, and leave the decision with you.

If you do want to book advisory repairs with us, we carry the most common parts for tyres, brakes, and suspension work and can usually turn the job around quickly. Call 07494 990846 to discuss and we will give you an honest timescale and price before you commit.

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Need help with your car?

Talk to the team at Nick and Stefan Motor Works in Brierley Hill — honest advice and a straightforward booking.

Call 07494 990846