Most drivers want an overhaul of the NCT, survey shows

Nearly two-thirds (64pc) of those surveyed would favour a change whereby car testing could be carried out by dedicated motor garages nationwide – as is the case in the UK with the MOT.

But the latter has been criticised for shortcomings too. A What Car? investigation last year found 10pc of cars that passed the test should have failed.

The wish to see changes to how and where our tests are carried out here is reflected in a major survey by insurance giant Aviva.

Those who participated in the research said they would like to see motor garages, rather than dedicated NCT test centres, carrying out the test.

There is no doubt the findings reflect the frustration and annoyance experienced by thousands of car owners following significant backlogs in test centres over the last few years.

Younger motorists in particular showed a strong desire for reform of the current way of doing things, with 70pc aged 18-24 in favour of an overhaul.

Drivers should be aware that the test is only a spot-check in time but there are indications that relatively small numbers regularly check vital elements of their cars. The survey found that while two-thirds (66pc) do not inspect or check their brakes themselves, just under half do not test their headlights and taillights.

Older drivers are more inclined to carry out maintenance: 78pc of those aged 55-plus check their tyre pressure compared to just 46pc of those aged 25 to 34. Those aged 55 or more were also more likely to wash their car rather than to pay someone else to do it.

Many drivers monitor their windscreen washer fluid levels but fewer don’t check tyre tread depth.