Happy Hallo-wheels!
While most horror stories are set in haunted houses or dark woods, some of the DVSA’s scariest tales come straight from the MOT testing bay.
This year, testers have shared some truly hair-raising sights that would leave the bravest of testers shuddering.
In our latest edition of MOT horror stories, a collection of terrifying tales from the garage floor is revealed.
The Seatbelt Slasher
One tester reported a driver who arrived with a severed seatbelt that had been “repaired” with duct tape. While it might hold a parcel together, it will never hold a life.
Seatbelts are engineered to lock instantly during a crash and withstand enormous forces. A taped-up or frayed belt simply cannot perform its vital function, leaving a vehicle’s occupant dangerously unprotected.
As the front line of defence against unsafe vehicles, a tester’s advice is a vital reminder – the owner is responsible for keeping their seatbelts in good condition, ensuring their car is roadworthy.
The only safe choice is replacement. If the seat belt shows any cuts, frays or stiffness, it must be inspected and replaced – there’s no safe DIY fix.
A Fuel Tank on Elm Street
Another tester was stunned to find a fuel tank held in place with a fuse wire after its original strap had corroded away.
This makeshift repair posed an extremely dangerous hazard.
A fuel tank held in this way can shift or detach under road vibrations or impact, potentially damaging fuel lines and causing leaks.
Just one spark could have catastrophic results – such as causing a fire.
As experienced MOT professionals will be aware, fuel tanks must always be secured using manufacturer-approved fittings and brackets. It's also a good opportunity to remind motorists that DIY repairs of this kind can be incredibly unsafe.
The Corroded Suspension Curse
A Ford KA was brought in after the owner reported steering issues on the motorway. The real problem uncovered during the MOT was far more serious – a coil spring mounting so corroded it had fractured completely.
With the springs no longer safely attached, the vehicle was at risk of instability or loss of control, particularly when cornering or driving over uneven roads.
As testers know, corrosion develops gradually, which is why regular inspections are so important. When corrosion is identified, it’s a good opportunity for garages to promote any additional services they offer, such as vehicle safety checks.
The Cursed Caliper
Not all MOT horrors are the result of wear and tear – some are the result of dangerous shortcuts.
During one test, a brake caliper was discovered with its bleed nipple replaced by a radiator drain tap, glued into place… a true Frankenstein repair.
This wasn’t just a gruesome repair – it was an unsafe modification.
A car’s braking system relies on precision, and using the wrong part could lead to leaking brake fluid, loss of pressure, and even total brake failure.
Spongy brakes, unusual noises, the car pulling to one side, or brake warning lights are all common complaints from customers.
Quick fixes or unapproved modifications – especially involving the braking system – are never safe solutions. Makeshift repairs, incorrect parts, or shortcut fixes put both drivers and other road users at serious risk.
By highlighting these dangers, testers can help prevent small issues from turning into a full-blown horror story on the road.
A stark reminder
We all know that a valid MOT certificate doesn’t automatically guarantee the vehicle is safe to drive for the year.
Encourage motorists to:
- book a mid-year service: this can help catch any lurking issues early and spread maintenance costs throughout the year.
- keep an eye on tyre pressure and condition, fluid levels, wiper blades, and lights regularly throughout the year.
- never ignore any strange noises or warning lights – these are the car’s way of calling for help.
Promoting safety and inspection services available at the garage is an excellent way to help motorists stay on top of their vehicle maintenance and keep their vehicle safe all year round.
We’d love to know what testers think of these MOT horror stories – have you come across any spooky discoveries of your own? Share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a comment below.
8 comments
Comment by Frank Welham posted on
In the spring saddle shot, the brake pipe in the background looks fairly tasty too 😳😳😳👍
Comment by hassen posted on
Wonder if these dangerous repairs were done by irresponsible dogee mechanics cheating people. Normally,the MOT is done with the intention that it will last 12 months, There are cases that can develop dangerous testible items soon after a vehicle has got a Pass.Seeing these pictures frighten and testers should take great care when inspecting a vehicle.
Comment by Tito Bozo posted on
I cant believe how much humor is in these pics....its true Hello We Win
Comment by Ash posted on
“Blimey, DVSA being helpful? I had to double-check it wasn’t April Fool’s. Usually they pop up like the MOT Grim Reaper—clipboard in hand, ready to smite. But this post? Actually useful. Hats off for giving us a chance to sharpen up before the boot comes flying. Can you do more of this? It’s a brilliant way to engage with MOT testers and actually help develop learning opportunities. More guidance, less guillotine please!” Thanks I liked this post. Well done guys.
Comment by Ian Smith posted on
Would the replacement of a brake caliper’s bleed fitting with a radiator drain tap be considered a subjective defect rather than an absolute defect, provided it does not leak under pressure? What criteria would be applied to assess the safety implications of such a modification, given that the MOT test focuses on the condition of the vehicle at the time of inspection? I assume this would fall under the discretion of the Tester and therefore an advisory would also be considered appropriate?
Comment by ronnie bright posted on
frightening that people, [and i hope to god not mechanics] think these repairs and faults are acceptable.
Comment by SAJAD MOHAMMED RAJ posted on
what the hells going on surley that carnt have corroded since the last mot that quick so some body som where not doing thir job propley
Comment by David posted on
When did you guys get a sense of humour 😂