VOSA computer system fails its MOT

The new computer system designed to automate MOT testing in the UK has suffered technical problems, leaving some garage owners unable to process MOT certificates.

The system, which was built for the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) at a total cost of £230m, was completed at the end of March. Computer terminals have been distributed to 18,500 authorised test stations, with the aim of combating MOT certificate fraud.

A spokesman for VOSA told the BBC: “A number of MOT garages have been experiencing difficulties with the MOT computer system during the past few days. The underlying problem is currently being resolved and full service will resume as soon as possible.”

Alex Fiddes, director of the private vehicles sector at VOSA, told silicon.com: “We will be able to eliminate people fraudulently issuing MOT certificates.” At the launch of the new system he also stated: “This is not a simple IT system and we said we would not rush to meet artificially imposed milestones.”