A CAR'S mileage is to
be printed on NCT certificates under changes being
introduced to the system from today.
The new odometer readings are being introduced as a
consumer protection measure in a bid to prevent
drivers being ripped off with clocked second-hand
cars.
A maximum of three odometer readings will appear on
the NCT certs of the future.
But the readings will give motorists planning on
buying a second hand car, more information about a
car's useage and history over the course of its
previous three NCT tests.
Meanwhile, car owners and traders who wish to
present vehicles for inspection earlier than the
previous norm of 90 days before the NCT due date,
will now be allowed to do so.
The move has been introduced following lobbying by
the motor retail industry and will allow a vehicle
to receive a two-year certificate - or one-year for
decade old and older vehicles - from the date it
passes the test.
It will also benefit motorists whose cars are coming
up to their tenth anniversary inspection.
Those presenting early for the tenth anniversary
inspection will get a two-year rather than the
one-year certificate, provided the vehicle passes
the test.
"In order for a vehicle to be considered as
presented voluntarily early, it must currently have
an in-date, valid NCT test certificate or be younger
than four years-90 days," operators Applus said in a
statement.
"This change is being introduced as members of the
retail trade have lobbied for it as they see an
advantage in being able to sell a vehicle with a
full two year (or one year) certificate," Applus
added.
Meanwhile, in future, only a trade fob or driving
licence will be deemed acceptable as a form of
identification for traders looking for a short
notice booking appointment.
"This measure is being introduced to bring greater
transparency to transactions carried out in the test
centre," Applus said. |
