What Dangerous defect (MOT) means for you
Since 20 May 2018, every MOT fault is graded as dangerous, major, minor or advisory. A dangerous defect is one that poses an immediate risk to road safety or the environment, such as a serious brake or steering fault. The car fails and must not be driven. Arrange for it to be collected and repaired.
If you're buying, check the MOT history before you pay. A dangerous defect that was fixed still shows there, so ask the seller for the repair invoice. Only drive the car once it has passed a fresh MOT.