Car testing system needs to be recalled

THE car test system needs to be reviewed. There are contradictions between computer read-outs and the observations of mechanics at NCT centres.

Suspension systems are being subjected to so-called visual observations by mechanics, even though special equipment is available for this purpose.

NCT reports fail to state the exact nature of the problem, preferring to cover all the possibilities. Drivers then need to employ mechanics at extra cost to find the exact nature of the problem. The bureaucracy woven into the pass/fail/advisory/refusal system is enormous. Many drivers have to make long journeys back to the testing centre for relatively trivial things.