The company that conducts the National Car Test (NCT) in Ireland has issued a statement saying that it is to temporarily cease use of lifts across its network with immediate effect following reports of defects with similar lifts in MOT Centres in the United Kingdom that appeared to show signs of cracking. NCTS is to carry out a detailed survey and inspection of all lifts in its centres nationwide as they use a similar type of lift as those in question.
The company has asked that all customers that already have a test booking turn up at the appointed time as normal.
However, as the lifts are used to conduct the underbody inspection element of the test, this part of the test will be temporarily halted. Customers will have to return to the test centre at a later date, and at no additional cost, to complete this element of the test.
The official statement from NCTS says: NCTS has made the decision to discontinue the use of vehicle inspection lifts across the NCTS network with immediate effect until a full condition survey of all lifts is completed. NCTS were recently made aware of a defect with a similar make and model of MAHA lift. Following that information, condition surveys have been instigated.
All customers should continue to book and turn up for their NCT as normal. The test will be completed with the omission of the underbody inspection, which will be conducted at a later date when the lifts are returned to use. Customers will incur no additional costs as part of this process. Our priority at this point and time is for the safety of our staff and our customer's property. We do sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
If you have an upcoming NCT test scheduled and have a query regarding this, it is recommended that you contact your local test centre who will be able to advise.
In a further update to the situation, the NCTS has confirmed that the scissor lifts in question were due for replacement from June of this year and it is now in talks with MAHA, the lift manufacturer, to bring forward the supply and installation of these lifts, which total over 100 across 47 test centres. Presently, there is no set timeline for this.
Both the NCTS, RSA and An Garda Siochana are liaising on the issue as car owners will not receive a valid NCT certificate until the underbody section of the test is completed. In the interim, once the vehicle passes the NCT on all other sections that cover lights, emissions, upper body inspection, vehicle interior, brakes, suspension and wheel alignment, people will receive a Vehicle Inspection Report that indicates "No Lift Inspection Done" in the fail result.
Drivers are advised to keep a copy of this in the car at all times in order to present to a member of An Garda Siochana if required. The insurance industry has advised that it will take a pragmatic view for policyholders with those who are awaiting to receive a valid NCT certificate and will not penalise them. However, the authorities have made it clear that it remains the owner's responsibility for the roadworthiness of their vehicle at all times.
Click here to read our useful guide to preparing your car for its NCT.