Common NCT failures and how to fix them
Eight failure points that account for 80% of NCT fails and what each one costs to put right.
Roughly four out of five NCT failures we see are one of eight problems. Here is each, what causes it, and what it costs to put right.
1. Headlight beam alignment — €35
The single most-failed point on the test. Headlights drift out of alignment over time, after a kerb hit, or after a bulb change. Calibration on a beam-setter takes twenty minutes. Walk-in any morning Monday to Wednesday.
2. Worn tyre tread — from €65 per tyre
Below 1.6mm anywhere on the tyre and it’s a legal fail. Most drivers check the centre of the tread, where wear is even — but inspectors look at the inner edge, where alignment problems wear rubber out first. New tyres without alignment are wasted money: pair the two.
3. Brake imbalance — from €110
Left-vs-right braking force must fall within tolerance. A sticking caliper, blocked flexible hose, or worn pads on one side will fail you even if the brakes “feel fine” on the drive. We strip and free off calipers as part of any brake job.
4. Smoke opacity (diesel only) — from €150
Most diesels with smoke fails respond to a forced DPF regen or an injector clean. Replacement is the last resort. €150 cleans usually save €1,500+ replacements.
5. Suspension play — from €180
Worn lower-arm bushings, anti-roll bar drop links, and track-rod ends fail with age and Irish potholes. Knocking over speed bumps is the early warning. Inspectors shake the wheel by hand at full lock — any play and it’s a fail.
6. Brake pad wear — from €110
Below the pad warning depth and it’s an automatic fail. Some cars warn on the dashboard, some don’t. We measure pad depth on every Pre-NCT.
7. Number-plate lights — €5–€15
Both rear plate lights have to work. One out and the car fails. We replace bulbs free if you’re in for another service.
8. Wiper blade smear — €15–€25
Streaky, juddering, or torn wipers fail the visibility check. Front, rear, and washer jets all have to function. We keep most common sizes in stock.
How to get all eight checked at once
Book a Pre-NCT inspection — €49 flat, 1-hour slot, all 50 NCT points covered. Quote on the spot for any failure. Phone 01 847 5146.