Reason to refuse a test:

  1. Evidence of date of first use (usually the V5 reg doc or in the case of lease cars a VE103) is not produced where this is required for the tester to determine what standards are required e.g pre 1st April 1987 vehicles do not require seat belts in the rear.
  2. Its too dirty or parts are so dirty a proper exam can't be carried out (usually builders trucks, off-roaders etc)
  3. Vehicle is not fit to be driven e.g lack of fuel, oil, coolant or other reasons (make sure there's enough fuel to do the emissions test and any road test that may be necessary).
  4. Insecure load (you have the option of removing it or securing it)
  5. The fee is not paid in advance (to cover those who owe the garage money or are likely to do a runner if the vehicle fails!)
  6. Vehicle emits substantial amounts of avoidable smoke (very old vehicles may smoke as a result of their original design and are exempt from this requirement)
  7. The tester cannot get access to those areas needing examination because a door, panel etc designed to open originally cannot be opened.
  8. The vehicle is in such a condition it involves risk of injury or damage to the vehicle, people or property (remember the garage will have Health and Safety issues to consider). This one also covers Diesel engines

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