What to do about a poor MOT?
If you disagree about the outcome of an MOT, you need to report this to the DVSA. You can usually complain if your vehicle has failed its MOT and you think it should have passed or your vehicle passed its MOT, and you think it should have failed.
You should discuss the test result with the MOT test centre first before starting any repairs. If you remain unhappy, you can then appeal against the test result by completing the form on the following website www.gov.uk/government/publications/complain-about-an-mot
If your vehicle has failed but you believe it should have passed, you must report this to the DVSA within 14 working days of the test. They will give you an appointment within 5 days to recheck your vehicle. You will need to pay another fee but if your appeal is successful, you will get some or your entire fee back.
If your vehicle has passed but you do not think it should have, you need to report this to the DVSA within 3 months of the test if the fault is a corrosion-related problem or within 28 days if the fault is for any other defects. Again, you will receive an appointment within 5 days to recheck your vehicle, and you do not have to pay. At the end of this appointment, you will get an inspection report listing any vehicle defects and advisory items.
How to submit a dispute to The Motor Ombudsman
The Motor Ombudsman is a certified Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) provider who can assist with disputes that arise between consumers and Code-accredited businesses.
Before you submit a dispute to us, firstly please ensure you have taken a look at the information about our process on the resolve a dispute page.
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