Tennants UK has urged garages, factors and dealerships to focus on one of the most common, yet often overlooked, reasons for MOT failures, non-compliant number plates, as we head into the busiest time of year for MOT testing.
The DVLA has issued multiple warnings about the risks of non-compliance, stating 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 said to be more relevant than ever.
It’s not just about avoiding penalties; ensuring number plates meet legal standards is also essential for road safety and vehicle identification, warns Tennants.
In the last few years, number plate non-compliance has reportedly 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 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 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.
