NCT officials warn motorists over hidden issue that could cause inspectors to refuse to test vehicle
NCT officials shared a video of car which inspectors refused to test recently as they issued a warning to others
Having to get the NCT carried out on your car can be one of the more stressful tasks that Irish motorists have to undertake, as recent figures revealed that nearly half the total number of vehicles tested in 2023 - 1.5 million - failed the test.
While most drivers are aware of the major issues that could lead to a failure—such as tyres, brakes, suspension, and steering—there is another, often hidden, reason that could see inspectors refuse to test your car outright.
In a recent social media post, the NCT service revealed that arriving to a test centre with a dirty underbody could see you car being refused a test.
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NCT officials shared a video of the underbody of a vehicle which was recently taking into the a test centre caked in mud and dirt as they issued a warning to others.
"Even with glasses, you can't miss a dirty underbody! NCT testers play a vital role in keeping our roads safe. Don't let a dirty car get in the way of having your NCT," they said.
"This vehicle owner was asked to get the underbody of the vehicle cleaned and then return to have it tested."
So if you are due to get an NCT carried out on your car in the near future, don’t forget to clean the underbody of the car thoroughly with a brush as this area will also be examined.
Dirt on a car also has several knock-on effects that can cause you to fail, such as dirty lights, so make sure to pay particular attention to the mirrors, windows, lights and registration plates to give your car the best chance at passing.
You should also de-clutter the interior. Empty the boot and remove anything that is likely to get in the way of the tester - and that includes child seats. If they are present the tester is obliged to check they are fitted properly.
Driving a vehicle without an NCT is illegal and you can be stuck with a fine of €60 and three penalty points for doing so (rising to €90 if you don't pay the initial charge within 28 days).
Failure to have a current NCT might also mean that your insurance isn't technically valid, and your insurer might refuse to pay out in the event of an accident.
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