New data has revealed the most neglected vehicles in the UK, with drivers ignoring previous MOT advisories ahead of the next annual test.
The data, analysed by FixMyCar, comes from 42,000 vehicles listed on the platform that are due an MOT in the next 30 days. These models still had advisories carried over, suggesting drivers did not conduct repair work, and making them some of the country’s most neglected vehicles.
Leading the charge was the Ford Transit. The FixMyCar data shows that 70% of these vans that had an MOT due within the 30-day period had outstanding advisories. This makes it the UK’s most neglected vehicle.
The Vauxhall Zafira was next, with 67% of these models having advisories that had not been remedied. Following this was the Volkswagen Transport, with 66% carrying existing MOT advisories.
Popular models are neglected vehicles
Coming in next were the Ford Ka and the Peugeot 207. These are often ‘runaround’ vehicles, used for regular short journeys, and racking up the miles on local roads. However, with a high ration of outstanding safety advisories, they too are considered some of the most neglected vehicles on UK roads.
At the other end of the scale, premium models fared significantly better. The Mercedes A-Class had the lowest advisory rate of any car in the dataset at just 45.1%. This was followed by the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, with 45.7%, and Mercedes E-Class at 48.5%.
“The fact that 70% of Ford Transits due an MOT have outstanding issues is particularly concerning, given how many miles these vehicles are likely to cover every day,” commented Matt Wrankmore, CCO at FixMyCar. “But there could be many reasons why these cars have made the ‘most neglected vehicles’ list, from price to purpose.
“I would urge all drivers to remember that MOT advisories are a warning of an impending problem and driving with them unresolved puts you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road at risk. Drive safe and get advisories fixed as soon as you can.”
Cost-of-living crisis looms
With oil prices rising, fuel and energy costs are likely to increase. This has, in the past, led to more drivers neglecting basic maintenance and repair work when it comes to their vehicles.
With this in mind, it is likely that the number of unactioned advisories from MOTs will rise. With many older cars on the roads, there will be some drivers who will not want to spend money, a situation that could lead to models being in a dangerous condition.
Therefore, workshops may find it beneficial to speak with customers, especially those on the list of most neglected vehicles, to ensure they are up to road safety standards. This is especially important for vehicles that carry out high or significant mileages, such as the Ford Transit, which topped the FixMyCar list.
