DVSA defectDangerous

`5.3.1.c.ii`

Springs · Suspension

Dangerous · Vehicle is legally undriveable until rectified.

What this code means

A spring missing and directional control affected

DVSA manual phrasing — written for testers, kept verbatim.

How serious is itDangerous

A direct and immediate risk to road safety, or that has a serious impact on the environment. The vehicle should not be driven until repaired.

What the tester was checking

Springs

Section 5: Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
5.3: Suspension
5.3.1: Springs
5.3.1.c.ii: this defect

What to do next

Vehicle is legally undriveable until rectified.

Always confirm with a qualified MOT tester or vehicle technician for your specific vehicle. A re-test must address the defect category identified above.

Related codes in this subject

motfailcode.uk maps DVSA MOT defect codes to plain-English meanings. Defect severity classifications follow the DVSA MOT Inspection Manual current as of 12 May 2026. Codes and severities are updated annually (typically May). Always confirm with a qualified MOT tester or vehicle technician for your specific vehicle. This site is not affiliated with DVSA or HM Government.

See our methodology for how we extract and verify each code, and sources for the full citation manifest.