Failed the NCT?

Sell an NCT-Failed Car in Ireland

If your car has failed its NCT, you can ask us for a price in its current condition. Eoghan reviews the car and the failure together before deciding whether it suits us.

The failure details matter more than the word ‘failed’

A short list of items to repair and an uncertain mechanical problem are different propositions. Tell us what the test report says, whether a garage has inspected the car and whether any of the work has already been completed.

You do not need to interpret technical codes. A plain-language summary in the faults box is enough to start. If a repair cost is only an estimate, say so; we will take that into account when reviewing the enquiry.

  • The main failure items on the report
  • Any warning lights or symptoms you have noticed
  • Work completed since the test, if any
  • Current mileage and service history

Repair and retest, or sell the car as it is?

An offer for the car as it stands gives you something concrete to compare with a repair estimate. Consider the repair bill, retest arrangements and how long you want to keep the vehicle. Ask a garage to explain an uncertain repair before assuming a low-cost fix.

We do not require you to complete repairs before requesting a valuation. We may ask for more information before offering on a car where the extent of the fault is unclear.

Which NCT-failed cars do we consider?

Our main focus is cars from 2013 onwards with less than 160,000 km. We consider older classic, unusual and high-value vehicles individually. A failed NCT does not mean automatic acceptance, and we may decline a car if its condition or repair requirements do not suit us.

We do not buy insurance write-offs, including repaired UK Category N and Category S cars, or scrap and end-of-life vehicles. Our engine-specific exclusions also apply.

A ‘fail dangerous’ result needs particular care

NCTS says vehicles with dangerous defects must not be used on the road. Do not drive one to a viewing. Tell us the result before making any arrangements; a valuation request is not confirmation that we will buy the car.

If we proceed, we agree the inspection arrangements, confirm the purchase price and make payment by AIB bank transfer. Collection is free within Leinster after the purchase is agreed.

Common questions

Must I upload the NCT failure sheet?

No. Describe the main items in the form. Keep the report available in case we need to clarify something later.

Will you give a firm price without seeing the car?

An initial offer is based on the information supplied. We confirm the final price after inspection and history checks, including the faults described.

What if the NCT has simply expired?

An expired NCT and a failed test are different situations. Choose the correct status and tell us about any known faults; suitable cars without a current NCT are welcome.

Useful next steps

Official guidance

Where inspection happens

We can view your car at your home, workplace or another convenient location anywhere in Dublin, by appointment. Viewings outside Dublin may be possible by agreement. You can also come to us in Skerries or Rathfarnham by appointment. Collection is free throughout Leinster after the purchase is agreed. Tell us about any NCT or safety issues before arranging to bring the vehicle.

Give Eoghan the reg

Request a free valuation. There is no obligation to accept the offer.

Request my valuation