Buying a used car can save thousands of pounds compared with buying new, but only if you know what to look for. One of the most valuable checks you can carry out before purchasing any vehicle is reviewing its MOT history.
An MOT history check can reveal recurring faults, signs of poor maintenance and potentially expensive repairs that may not be obvious during a viewing. Pay particular attention to repeated MOT advisories, as they can show issues that have been monitored but repeatedly left unresolved.
Here are 10 MOT history red flags that should make you think twice before handing over your money.
1. Repeated MOT Failures
A single MOT failure is not necessarily a problem. However, a vehicle that fails multiple MOT tests year after year may indicate poor maintenance.
Look for repeated failures involving brakes, suspension, tyres or steering components.
2. Recurring Advisories
Advisories highlight issues that are not yet serious enough to fail the test but may require attention soon.
If the same advisory appears across several MOT tests, it may suggest the owner has ignored the problem rather than fixing it properly.
If you are unsure what advisories mean, read our guide on Can You Drive With an MOT Advisory?.
3. Corrosion and Rust Warnings
Structural corrosion is one of the most expensive vehicle problems to repair.
Pay particular attention to advisories or failures mentioning:
- Corrosion
- Excessive rust
- Corroded brake pipes
- Corroded suspension components
Repair costs can quickly exceed the value of older vehicles.
4. Brake Problems Appearing Repeatedly
Brakes naturally wear over time, but repeated MOT failures for brake performance or heavily worn brake components may suggest the vehicle has not been maintained correctly.
Look for patterns rather than isolated incidents.
You can learn more about brake-related repair costs in our guide to Brake Repair Costs in the UK.
5. Suspension Faults
Suspension repairs can be expensive, especially on larger vehicles and premium brands.
Repeated references to:
- Coil springs
- Shock absorbers
- Suspension arms
- Bushes
may indicate ongoing issues.
6. Mileage Inconsistencies
One of the biggest warning signs is mileage that does not increase consistently between MOT tests.
Unexpected drops or irregular patterns could indicate a recording error or possible odometer tampering.
Always investigate unusual mileage history before purchasing.
7. Excessive Numbers of Advisories
Most vehicles collect occasional advisories as they age.
However, a vehicle receiving a large number of advisories at every MOT may indicate years of neglected maintenance.
This can lead to significant repair bills shortly after purchase.
8. Serious Safety-Related Failures
Be cautious if the MOT history contains failures involving:
- Brakes
- Steering
- Seatbelts
- Tyres
- Suspension
These are critical safety systems and repeated failures should raise concerns about how the vehicle has been maintained.
9. Long Periods Without MOT Tests
Vehicles over three years old should normally have a continuous MOT history.
Large gaps may require further investigation, particularly if there is no clear explanation.
You can learn more about MOT requirements in our MOT Test Checklist.
10. A Clean MOT After Years of Problems
This may sound surprising, but a vehicle that suddenly passes with no advisories after years of failures and warnings deserves a closer look.
The issues may have been repaired properly, but it is worth asking for receipts and maintenance records to confirm the work was carried out.
What Should You Do Before Buying?
Never rely solely on photographs or the seller's description.
Before buying any used vehicle:
- Review the full MOT history
- Check advisories and failures
- Look for repeated issues
- Verify mileage progression
- Ask for repair invoices where appropriate
A few minutes spent reviewing MOT records could save you from expensive repair bills later.
Check a Vehicle's MOT History
Use our free MOT History Checker to review MOT records, advisories, mileage history and potential warning signs before buying a used car.
You can also read our guide on How to Check a Car's MOT History for Free for a complete walkthrough.
The more information you have before purchasing, the lower the risk of unexpected surprises after you drive away.