Latest news with #CraigSprigmore
Leader Live
17-05-2025
- Automotive
- Leader Live
More than half of vehicles in Flintshire fail MOT test
This is according to a UK-wide survey conducted by HiQ Tyres & Autocare, which found that 53 per cent of vehicles in Flintshire did not pass their initial MOT test in 2025. This is significantly higher than the national average of 38 per cent. The findings are based on a study carried out over six weeks in 2025, covering 29 counties, and reveal significant regional variations in vehicle maintenance and roadworthiness. The figures show that 53.1 per cent of vehicles in Flintshire fail their MOT test on the first attempt, making it one of only four counties where more than half of vehicles do not pass first time. Also in this group were North Yorkshire, neighbouring Greater Manchester – which recorded the highest failure rate in the country at 54 per cent – and Merseyside. The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a legal requirement in the UK for cars, light commercial vehicles and motorcycles over three years old, ensuring they meet basic safety and environmental standards Data from HiQ Tyres & Autocare shows that, on average, 38 per cent of vehicles across the country fail their MOT test on the first attempt. The findings highlight regional differences in vehicle maintenance, road safety, and the potential risks for both drivers and other road users. In response, HiQ Tyres & Autocare has recommended simple steps drivers can take to help keep their vehicles in good condition, including free safety checks available at HiQ Tyres & Autocare centres across the country. An MOT failure often indicates serious safety concerns with a vehicle and can lead to costly repairs as well as the need for a re-test. According to HiQ data, common reasons for failure include problems with brakes and suspension, many of which can be avoided through routine maintenance. Other causes, such as insufficient tyre tread depth or blown bulbs, can often be identified through a simple, regular walkaround check. READ MORE: House price rises and falls revealed in North Wales according to latest figures Craig Sprigmore, retail director UK & Ireland, HiQ Tyres & Autocare, said: "We released our data to highlight the stark disparities in MOT failures across different regions in the UK. "The figures from our road safety survey are surely a wake-up call for drivers in Flintshire. "Failing an MOT not only leads to inconvenience and cost but also highlights potential safety risks that can affect all road users. "HiQ's mission is to keep motorists safe and confident driving on the road. "This data has prompted us to remind drivers that we offer free vehicle inspections at all of our autocare centres nationwide, helping drivers to stay ahead of any issues before they become serious problems and may lead to failing an MOT test. "Many safety issues such as lights, wiper blades and tyres can be easily checked at home by many drivers, while other items such as the condition of shock absorbers or brake discs may need an expert eye. "That's why we are offering free vehicle safety checks across the country. "HiQ experts will be glad to conduct a safety check. "Addressing these issues promptly can help mitigate driving risks and ensure better safety on the road for everyone."
Scotsman
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scotsman
Drivers in West Lothian and Lanarkshire among the UK's most road-ready, finds UK-wide survey
Research revealed exclusively by HiQ Tyres & Autocare has highlighted concerns about the condition of Britain's vehicles, with new data showing that in several counties and council areas, up to half of all vehicles are failing their MOT at the first attempt. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... However, for drivers in West Lothian and Lanarkshire, the survey brings good news. These two council areas each exhibit identical first time pass rates of 69.8%; a figure well above the national average of 61.9%. Aberdeenshire followed closely with a first time pass rate of 67.4%. The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a legal requirement for cars, light commercial vehicles and motorcycles over three years old in the UK, ensuring that they meet the essential safety and environmental standards. Data from HiQ Tyres & Autocare shows that, on average, 38% of vehicles fail their MOT test on the first attempt. However, further in-depth analysis, carried out over a six-week period in 2025, paints a more troubling picture in certain areas, revealing that initial failure rates in some counties exceed 50%. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad These findings highlight the regional disparities in vehicle upkeep, the safety of vehicles on the road, and the potential risks faced by both drivers and other road users. This has led to HiQ Tyres & Autocare recommending simple steps that drivers can take to ensure their cars are in optimum condition, including free safety checks at the HiQ Tyres and Autocare centres across Scotland. West Lothian and Lanarkshire lead the way for Scotland in vehicle maintenance and MOT pass rates, as 70% of cars in each council area pass their MOT first time Vehicle maintenance and safety An MOT failure often points to there being critical safety issues with vehicles, and can result in costly repairs and the need for a re-test. The HiQ data reveals that the reason for an MOT failure include issues with brakes and suspension; many of which can be prevented with routine maintenance. Other reasons for failure, such as tyre tread depth or blown light bulbs can be checked with a simple, regular walk around the car. Craig Sprigmore, Retail Director UK & Ireland, HiQ Tyres & Autocare, said the data lays bare the importance of regular vehicle checks and maintenance in order to improve standards: 'We released our data to highlight the stark disparities in MOT failures across different regions in the UK. It is great to see drivers in Scotland taking vehicle maintenance seriously, as it is vital that all vehicles are maintained to high standards, no matter the age of the vehicle. 'HiQ's mission is to keep motorists safe and confident driving on the road. This data has prompted us to remind drivers that we offer free vehicle inspections at all of our autocare centres nationwide, helping drivers to stay ahead of any issues before they become serious problems and may lead to failing an MOT test. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Many safety issues such as lights, wiper blades and tyres can be easily checked at home by many drivers, while other items such as the condition of shock absorbers or brake discs may need an expert eye. That's why we are offering free vehicle safety checks across the country. HiQ experts will be glad to conduct a safety check. Addressing these issues promptly can help mitigate driving risks and ensure better safety on the road for everyone.'
