MOT results
What does an MOT advisory mean?
An MOT advisory flags something the tester thinks you should monitor or repair soon. It is not a failure — but it can foreshadow the next test.
Last reviewed 2026-10-02
What an advisory is
Under the current MOT defect category system in Great Britain, an advisory means a item has wear or a defect that does not fail the test today but could become more serious later.
A vehicle can pass the MOT and still show advisories on the test certificate and in MOT history. That is normal on older cars with consumables nearing their limits.
Official definitions sit in GOV.UK — MOT defect categories. MOTCheckers is independent; we display advisory wording from test records on our MOT advisories view.
Advisories vs minor, major and dangerous defects
Dangerous and major defects fail the test. Minor defects may be recorded on a pass but indicate something that should be repaired soon.
Advisories are the lowest severity band — essentially “watch this”. They still matter: tyres noted as near the legal limit, slight corrosion, or a small oil leak may become a fail at the next MOT.
Read what an MOT fail means if your latest result was not a pass.
Common advisory examples
Testers often advisory brake pads or discs with limited remaining material, tyres approaching the minimum tread depth, slight play in a suspension joint, or corrosion on an exhaust bracket.
Wording is standardised in the MOT system but can look technical. Focus on the component named and ask a garage for a quote if you are not comfortable assessing it yourself.
What to do after advisories
Prioritise safety-related items (tyres, brakes, steering, lights) before cosmetic ones. Fixing advisories early often costs less than waiting for a fail.
When buying used, compare advisories across several MOT dates on a mileage check and history timeline. Repeated advisories on the same corner may suggest a lingering fault.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to fix advisories by law?+
There is usually no legal requirement to repair advisories immediately after a pass. However, driving an unroadworthy vehicle is always an offence — if an advisory indicates a serious safety issue, get it checked promptly.
Will advisories show on the next MOT?+
If the wear continues, the same item may fail next time. Clearing advisories before the next test improves your chances of a clean pass.