Motoring enthusiasts who customise their cars could find the often expensive add-ons failing the National Car Test (NCT) as stricter criteria comes into force on Monday.
The "fail advisory" element of the test, which allows cars to be passed despite failing on selected tests will be abolished, the Minister for State at the Department of Transport, Dr James McDaid announced today.
"From next Monday a car failing the test for any reason will be have to be repaired, and a retest passed, before an NCT certificate can issue for the vehicle," Dr McDaid said.
Among the elements changing from "fail advisory" to "fail refusal" is headlight alignment, shock absorbers, windscreen wipers, hand brake and horn.
Motor enthusiasts who customise their cars could also fall foul of the tough new regime. Cars will also be failed if registration plates and extra lighting such as spots are do not meet legal requirements.
Dr McDaid said the high rate of fail advisories in relation to headlight alignment was a matter that particular needed addressed.
"Persons driving vehicles misaligned headlights are not just a danger to themselves but are putting all road users at risk," the Minister said.
The move is supported by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry.