Let’s talk tyres – Tyre advisories at annual test

11 May 2021

Following the introduction of the ban on 10-year old tyres in February 2021 (here), the DVSA have been issuing a new ‘advisory’ on some annual test (MOT) certificates.

DVSA issues an advisory at annual test for two reasons:

1. to tell the presenter that a component is close to becoming defective
2. to make a note for both DVSA and the presenter that the item was not able to be assessed during the test

Specifically, in relation to tyres, the second scenario arises where the Vehicle Standards Assessor (VSA) was unable to gain access to read the 4-digit date code on the tyres, as part of a twin wheel set up.

The DVSA have been made aware of operators’ concerns about any such advisory and have therefore confirmed that this advisory does not:

• reflect poorly on the operator
• affect the roadworthiness status of the vehicle
• affect the Operator Compliance Risk Score (OCRS)

DVSA have indicated that the advisory is simply a reminder to the presenter or operator of the need for a robust tyre management system.

These advisories are, however, different to where a date code is either missing or damaged, which would result in a failure at annual test on a steered front axle.

Details of what constitutes an effective tyre management system can be found in Section 5.2 of the DVSA’s Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness (here) and for further information, contact our Regulatory team on regulatory@backhouses.co.uk or 01254 828300