TEST WOES
Urgent warning for Irish drivers over huge hidden reason why your car is failing the NCT test as expert shares handy fix
And the RSA has updated the guidelines for new permits
NCT TESTS are often the bane of our lives and can be stressful and time-consuming tasks for Irish drivers.
To make matters worse, NCT testers are now sharing an urgent warning to drivers over a huge hidden reason why their vehicle could be failing the NCT test.
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Taking to social media, the NCT services revealed a hidden reason that is one of the common causes of NCT test failure - and it can be a huge hazard when driving on the roads.
They said: "This is what can happen if you don't look after your car properly. Complete corrosion and an NCT fail. Don't let this happen to you!"
Corrosion happens when materials deteriorate due to oxidation, which causes rusting - the chemical reaction that occurs when iron interacts with air and water.
And vehicles having corrosion can impact the vehicle structure, making it unsafe to drive on the road as the vehicle can easily lose control if the issue impacts vital car parts.
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It can happen in areas that can't be spotted from outside of the vehicle such as the underbody panels and wheel arches.
Nevertheless, the degree and location of corrosion determine how safe the vehicle is.
Extensive rust on the least vital components might not have any bearing on the vehicle's safety.
To inspect the car to see if they have corrosion, an easy sign to spot it if the bodywork has any discolouration or flaking paint, hinting that the vehicle is rusting and potentially affecting the vehicle structure.
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Another sign of excessive rusting is when certain parts become loose or begin rattling when driving over bumps, meaning that the metal underneath has become weak due to corrosion.
If your vehicle is suffering from corrosion, it is recommended to get an under-car restoration service which can be found at many garage services.
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The service will remove the corrosion from the vehicle and repair it with new parts, re-paint bodywork and reinforce materials.
However, the service can be expensive if the vehicle is very damaged by corrosion and drivers could be looking at up to €500 worth of repairs.
But the treatment is the most durable and longest-lasting underbody rust protection, meaning it will protect the vehicle structure for at least 10 years or more.
NEW RULES FOR NEW PERMIT
Meanwhile, the Road Safety Authority has revealed new updates for motorists applying for a new permit or licence.
Drivers can now apply for, renew or replace a new licence or permit online.
On top of that, drivers can now add a new category to their permit or licence.
They can also exchange a foreign licence for an Irish licence.
This major change can all be done through the National Driver License Service (NDLS) Portal online.
The RSA has revealed a checklist for all those wanting to use the new online portal.
To apply for your first learner permit, drivers must have a verified MyGovID account and a completed eyesight report to show your vision is up to driving standards.
Drivers must also give proof of address dated within six months and pay a fee of €35 online.
Proof of your address is only needed if your current address doesn't match with what's currently on your Public Service Card.
To apply for your first driving licence through the portal, drivers must also have a verified MyGovID account and give proof of address.
On top of that, they must also show a completed medical report if its needed and pay a fee of €55.
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