The DVSA has warned motorists could be unaware of “outstanding recalls” on their vehicles in 2025.
Under new rules, drivers can now quickly identify whether their vehicle has a recall notice in place by checking an MOT test certificate.
The information has been included on most MOT forms since July 2023 meaning many drivers will be able to quickly realise if they have a problem.
Recall notices suggest major faults with vehicles that have to be corrected as soon as possible.
Continuing to drive with a recall notice in place is a major safety concern and could put road users at serious risk.
The DVSA posted on social media platform X: “Why stall? Check for recalls. If your vehicle has an outstanding recall, it will appear on your MOT certificate.
“Your MOT tester can tell you: what the fault is, who you should contact.
“Vehicle recalls help protect vehicle owners and road users from unsafe products.”
Major car manufacturers such as Ford, Toyota, Honda, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen provide live recall data straight to the DVLA system.
This makes it easy for any notice to be quickly printed on MOT forms allowing drivers to deal with problems when they arise.
Recall repairs are usually offered free of charge with motorists just needing to contact a dealer and get a slot booked in.
Original openers will still be on manufacturer lists and will be notified of any recalls that are issued.
However, this can become a problem for second-hand used car owners as firms may not have new contact details to pass on the information.
Sue Robinson, chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) previously stressed the new recall policy was a “welcome” move.
She stressed the NFDA had called for the inclusion of recall notices on MOT tests for many years.
GOV.UK explained: “Find out if the manufacturer has recalled a vehicle, part or accessory because of a serious safety problem.
“You need to get your car fixed or replaced by the manufacturer if there’s a problem. You will not usually have to pay for any repairs or parts.
“If your vehicle has a serious safety defect, the manufacturer will write to you to tell you what to do. You must not drive the vehicle.”
