NCT revs up with 16 more ways to fail test

THERE are 16 more ways to fail the NCT vehicle test after the Department of Transport introduced more stringent test criteria.

The move marks the full implementation of the NCT, which was introduced in January 2000, as part of a compulsory EU directive. From next Monday, faults that to now did not result in a failed test will be added to the list of reasons for refusal of an NCT certificate.

The main items to change from “test advisory” to “test refusal” include headlight alignment, performance of shock absorbers, condition of hand brake and rear view mirror, wheel alignments and condition of side and auxiliary lamps.

Figures from the NCTS show that 418,981 cars underwent a full NCT so far this year and that 54% passed. Some 191,811 cars underwent a retest, of which 90% passed.

During the full year of 2002, 536,071 cars underwent the NCT, with 53% getting a clean bill of health. Some 244,673 cars were retested, with 90% passing.

It costs €48.40 for a test and €27.20 for a retest. Failure to display an NCT cert incurs a fine of €444.

Minister of State at the Department of Transport Jim McDaid said: “From Monday next, a car failing the test for any reason will have to be repaired, and a retest passed, before an NCT certificate can issue for the vehicle.”

He said the scope of the test itself and the way in which it was carried out would not change in any way. Dr McDaid said the Department of Transport, the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) and the Society of the Irish Motor Industry had worked to bring about the changes.

“Since testing commenced in 2000, high failure rates for misaligned headlights have been consistently recorded in line with the experience internationally,” said Dr McDaid. He said defective headlights were a serious road safety issue.

“Persons driving vehicles with misaligned headlights are not just a danger to themselves but are putting at risk the safety of all road users.

“These dangers include dazzling oncoming drivers and inadequate side vision to see pedestrians on unlit roads.

“I’m satisfied that the higher failure rates that will be experienced with full implementation of the NCT will be a short-term phenomenon that will reduce progressively as the impact of the improved headlight alignment practices take effect.”

He said letters issued to car owners by the NCTS since August 19 included reference to misaligned headlights leading to a refusal of a test certificate.