00:00In Bristol, MOT failure rates are higher than average, with around 1 in 3 vehicles failing their test first time, compared to just under 1 in 3 nationally, according to government data.
00:12Common faults include worn tyres, faulty lights and brake issues, many of which start life as advisories.
00:19Mechanics across the West Country say far too many drivers delay fixing flagged issues, especially if their car still technically passed.
00:27But our AC figures show that 1 in 6 who ignore advisories will go on to break down or be involved in a crash.
00:34Bristol roads have also seen a sharp rise in pothole-related damage, and local garages say they are seeing the knock-on effects.
00:42With mobile servicing now operating across the region, experts say there's little excuse to put off repairs that could prevent future failures.
00:51The message to drivers is simple, an MOT advisory might sound optional, but ignoring it could cost you your car, or worse.
