MOT – Figaro fails because they tested on ‘Year of Import’ and not ‘Year of Manufacture’

Recently, social media platforms have been buzzing with numerous posts discussing the issue of Figgies failing their MOTs due to testing based on the year of import rather than the year of manufacture. This discrepancy has sparked widespread confusion and frustration among Figgie owners and enthusiasts. The discrepancy arises from the fact that MOT tests, which assess a vehicle’s roadworthiness, are often conducted based on the year of import rather than the actual year of manufacture. This misalignment has resulted in unjust failures for many Figgie owners who possess vehicles of impeccable condition but are deemed unfit based on the wrong criteria.

In summary For UK MOT standards

The date of first use is as defined in Regulation 3. For the purpose of these Regulations, the date on which a motor vehicle is first used is; (iv) ‘A vehicle which has been used on roads outside Great Britain before being imported into Great Britain; so in the case of the Figaro they were all made in 1991‘ (the exact date can be checked on the VIN on the below link).

The V5 can be used as further evidence it shows both the Date of first registration and the date of first UK registration. However, it’s worth noting that these are often both set incorrectly when first registered in the UK!

This can be corrected by contacting the DVLA Click here

Therefore the test should be based on the below, due to the age being pre-August 1992 there is no need for a Catalytic converter

References:

Details of Date of First Use: Click here
DVSA Emission Standards: Click here
MOT Inspection Manual: Click here
Manufacture date from VIN: Click here

Emissions

If a vehicle first used before 1 September 2002 is fitted with an engine that’s older than the vehicle, you must test it to the standards applicable to the engine. The vehicle presenter must have proof of the age of the engine. If a vehicle first used on or after 1 September 2002 is fitted with a different engine, you must test it to the emissions standards for the age of the vehicle.