Irish Taxi Forum

Public Area => Taxi Talk => Topic started by: PhyllisMurphy on January 29, 2020, 06:59:24 pm

Title: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: PhyllisMurphy on January 29, 2020, 06:59:24 pm
NCT seem to have the same problem as MOT in the UK with the ramps and can't test any cars from this evening 6pm.

Anybody heard any details?
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Bob Shillin on January 29, 2020, 07:01:52 pm
No, got a confirmation for my test at 5.20 on 10/1/20 at 8.23 this morning.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 29, 2020, 07:03:12 pm
It on their website as posted by Mooretaxi.....it does say to continue to book your NCT and turn up for appointments that the car will be tested except the underbody inspection which will be done at a later date at no extra cost other than you having to turn up again!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: silverbullet on January 29, 2020, 07:03:37 pm
No, got a confirmation for my test at 5.20 on 10/1/20 at 8.23 this morning.
A bit late?
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: watty on January 29, 2020, 07:04:23 pm
Members section: http://intaxi.org/forum/index.php?topic=11416.15 (http://intaxi.org/forum/index.php?topic=11416.15)

It's hit the nct now

National Car Testing Service
Book or manage your NCT
ENTER REGISTRATION
NCTS have made the decision to discontinue the use of vehicle inspection lifts across the NCTS network with immediate effect until a full condition survey of all lifts is completed. NCTS were recently made aware of a defect with a similar make and model of MAHA lift. Following that information, condition surveys have been instigated. All customers should continue to book and turn up for their NCT as normal. The test will be completed with the omission of the underbody inspection, which will be conducted at a later date when the lifts are returned to use. Customers will incur no additional costs as part of this process. Our priority at this point and time is for the safety of our staff and our customer’s property. We do sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
When is my vehicle due its NCT ?

<snip>
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: silverbullet on January 29, 2020, 07:10:51 pm
Maybe there's a compo claim from one of their employees?
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: watty on January 29, 2020, 07:15:50 pm
Might be a nuisance if you live in the country and you're an hour away from your 'local' NCT centre. 
Might be fun explaining to a Guard who doesn't like you that you have half your NCT and you're driving back with an out-of-date NCT to get the second half of it!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 30, 2020, 12:04:11 am
One would imagine a "provisional" cert will one issued... I guess Hal will keep us informed... reminds me, I must look at that box tomorrow.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 30, 2020, 02:13:35 am
Yeah,i'll let yis know on Friday what the sceal is,i won't be leaving without a cert given that i need an NCT to continue with the licence renewal process and even if their issue isn't resolved by the time my licence expires i'll still need a disc to be operating legally going forward,
Some neck though saying the second part of the test will be completed free of charge,will they be paying for fuel and downtime of those affected...i think not,maybe somebody with deep pockets might threaten legal action that might require a rethink or they might let it slide for those affected...we'll see.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 30, 2020, 02:17:22 am
One would imagine a "provisional" cert will one issued... I guess Hal will keep us informed... reminds me, I must look at that box tomorrow.

Thanks RC....good to see you're on top of things...although that shed construction should have been a red flag as to where my dodgy box might land on your to do list!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Wife Magnet on January 30, 2020, 10:44:57 am
Corolla virus outbreak.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 30, 2020, 12:18:22 pm
I rang the NTA re the NCTS woes after i read a statement from the NCTS general manager saying that certificates won't be issued,apparently the NTA are currently working on a solution for licence holders like myself and will have it on their website tomorrow.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 30, 2020, 12:47:14 pm
That's lunacy... but then so is letting cars that fail straight back out to pick up fare paying passengers.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 30, 2020, 01:11:11 pm
I was just about to ring Alanis Morissette to explain irony that a company charged with testing cars are up to standard using substandard equipment!!

I'll check the NTA website in the morning to see what their solution is....it probably required the purchase of extra bourbon creams,tea and coffee before any of the solution staff can convene.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: silverbullet on January 30, 2020, 09:10:23 pm
Pragmatic approach needed.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 30, 2020, 10:17:32 pm
Pragmatic approach needed.

Pragmatic and Quango......not quite Crockett and Tubbs!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Octavia1 on January 30, 2020, 11:18:44 pm
I presume your entitles to social welfare if yu are forbidden to work? Family income supplement etcetera etcetera.....
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: C5 on January 31, 2020, 01:30:08 am
 if the nct wont give me a cert and the nta refuse to relicense me, ill continue to work,  the insurance companies have said they will honour all claims if there made because its out of the drivers control if they take the test and its not completed because of the ncts failings. I don't see why the nta can use there common sense and issue a extension to the effected drivers until the matter has resolved itself.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: john m on January 31, 2020, 01:53:21 am
Plenty of commercial testers for vans or light trucks who have ramps just allow them certify taxies and light commercials .
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: C5 on January 31, 2020, 02:51:32 am
And another thing I forgot, if your past the date of your relicensing will the nta take a deposit of 500 euros and when you pass within 10 days they give you back 250, so thats a charge of 250 instead of 150 for something thats out of your control. That would be taking the piss altogether, I'm not taking that shite from them.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 31, 2020, 09:12:52 am
And another thing I forgot, if your past the date of your relicensing will the nta take a deposit of 500 euros and when you pass within 10 days they give you back 250, so thats a charge of 250 instead of 150 for something thats out of your control. That would be taking the piss altogether, I'm not taking that shite from them.

You're right C5,i have my NCT today,i'm gonna turn up and on Monday i'm gonna ring the NTA to book my LRA as normal(knowing they won't book it) because if legal action is required i can prove that i've taken all reasonable steps to renew my licence within the timeframe,i'm gonna contact my solicitor for advice,we're talking about our livlihoods here!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Tony on January 31, 2020, 09:20:46 am
https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/no-compensation-for-motorists-forced-to-have-two-nct-tests-38912499.html (https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/no-compensation-for-motorists-forced-to-have-two-nct-tests-38912499.html)



Drivers forced to undergo a second NCT test due to a suspected fault with under-body inspection lifts at test centres will not be offered a refund or compensation, contractors for the National Car Test Service confirmed last night.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 31, 2020, 09:29:50 am
They can say what they want Tony....if my livlihood is impacted through no fault of my own then maybe some sort of class action suit from the 100 or so taxi drivers might get their attention... NCTS don't seem to be affected,they're still telling people to turn up and book and charging €55 for 2/3 of a test and expecting people to make the necessary arrangement to return at their own expense to complete it...and possibly failing.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: The Liffey Lip on January 31, 2020, 10:11:53 am
Just read abut this now. Seems to be a knee-jerk reaction to what occurred in Norn Iron...........just auditing their own(?) ramps on legal/health and safety grounds it seems. How are NCTS or Aplus liable for faulty ramps that they didn't manufacture?...they're not. They are well within their rights to do what they're doing....the customer doesn't matter when it comes to them protecting themselves from prospective actions if they're not seen to be proactive. Only their problem if they pass cars tested on faulty ramps. I suspect everything is leased in these test centres...Hope it's sorted by March. You can blame the haste with which people run to courts for all this pink n fluffy nannyism.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: john m on January 31, 2020, 10:16:01 am
FFS its Ireland they will just reset the perimeters for the test lad will check for even ware on the tyres and that will indicate if tracking is ok then push down on the corners to check suspension .All they need to do is redesign the test .
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: The Liffey Lip on January 31, 2020, 10:18:27 am
What does the Insurance Federation say about it all? They're the ones worth listening to......they were very shy when it came to the historical stroking going on in the centres a few yrs back......enough said about that.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: john m on January 31, 2020, 10:20:02 am
All you need to do is past the test so just change the test .
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 31, 2020, 10:41:55 am
I sought legal advice earlier.....the NCTS and NTA are responsible for any possible losses that i incur(no matter what the fuk they say in statements re no compensating)....it's also important to note that drivers affected should minimise their loss(rent a taxi if possible) and claim for said rental.....also turn up for your NCT and continue with the renewal process...ring to make your LRA appointment....obviously you will be refused but ask for a letter from them stating the reason for refusal...also record date and time and name of the agent you speak with in NTA,in the event of the situation not being rectified before your licence expires you need to show that you've made every effort to renew your licence and minimise your losses.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: The Liffey Lip on January 31, 2020, 10:47:16 am
Fair enough but they're honouring the contract you have with them for the test..........they're not breaking it, Hal. I'm sure the Ins Fed will be obliged to tell people where they stand in relation to working a vehicle for reward in this peculiar environment. I'd be certain the NTA's hand will be forced on this....there's an election coming up...go to your local SF TD..........they're the only ones who'll do anything for you even though they're Marxists.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 31, 2020, 10:57:51 am
Fair enough but they're honouring the contract you have with them for the test..........they're not breaking it, Hal. I'm sure the Ins Fed will be obliged to tell people where they stand in relation to working a vehicle for reward in this peculiar environment. I'd be certain the NTA's hand will be forced on this....there's an election coming up...go to your local SF TD..........they're the only ones who'll do anything for you even though they're Marxists.

They're not fulfilling the contract LL....two thirds of a test and no certificate.....its a govt contract and we're as everyone else is required to hold a valid NCT cert...but in our case it affects our licence renewal and our livlihoods and thererfor someone is responsible....clearly whatever examinations of these lifts were inadequate and i'm sure Applus will no doubt have their own legal eagles all over it.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: The Liffey Lip on January 31, 2020, 11:01:55 am
No, Hal............they're honouring it just not all in one fell-swoop...........they're not testing your car and saying "on your way Hal"...they're telling you that the test has to continued after a period of time......and they're under no obligation to pas your car either way. That's why I'm wondering if the Ins Fed have intervened to make a statement on where drivers for hire stand in the event of a dispute such as a crash or a claim. Seems very watery altogether. Applus must be gone to ground. I'd say Minister Ross needs to step up from Stepaside.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: john m on January 31, 2020, 11:21:39 am
Taxi reg just change the requirements you need only pass suitability to get taxi licence .NCT only applies to car .
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 12:21:30 pm
I sought legal advice earlier.....the NCTS and NTA are responsible for any possible losses that i incur(no matter what the fuk they say in statements re no compensating)....it's also important to note that drivers affected should minimise their loss(rent a taxi if possible) and claim for said rental.....also turn up for your NCT and continue with the renewal process...ring to make your LRA appointment....obviously you will be refused but ask for a letter from them stating the reason for refusal...also record date and time and name of the agent you speak with in NTA,in the event of the situation not being rectified before your licence expires you need to show that you've made every effort to renew your licence and minimise your losses.

Good advice there. They give you a reference number when you call NTA, note that as well.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 31, 2020, 12:26:55 pm
Anyways,just out of test centre,passed stage 1 and 2,so it's a waiting game with regard to NCTS,i'll ring NTA on Monday.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 12:27:53 pm
Did you get a cert to say you passed stages 1 - 2 inclusive?
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: The Liffey Lip on January 31, 2020, 12:52:54 pm
Fairness and Justice...2 estranged brothers, I'm afraid..........ask any man falsely accused of rape etc....

https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-lifestyle/2017/08/05/1725783/between-justice-and-fairness (https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-lifestyle/2017/08/05/1725783/between-justice-and-fairness)
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 31, 2020, 01:00:33 pm
Did you get a cert to say you passed stages 1 - 2 inclusive?


(https://i.postimg.cc/ftJMF4SJ/20200131-125753.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ftJMF4SJ)

You get the report with FAIL at the top and asked to check for further updates.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 01:06:09 pm
Brake test is suspect too - no way everything could measure 0 - that machine must be fucked as well, assuming you didn't put anything in the ashtray.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: mercenary for hire on January 31, 2020, 01:11:51 pm
I don't think they check the brakes on Priuses.Maybe just the parking brake.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 01:16:51 pm
They have figures for performance, service brake down to 88% and parking brake right down to 20% in the report posted.... but the zeros make no sense, even in layman's terms - Car Weight is given as 0 Kg?
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 31, 2020, 01:17:35 pm
Brake test is suspect too - no way everything could measure 0 - that machine must be fucked as well, assuming you didn't put anything in the ashtray.

Toyota have told/warned them not to use the rolling road on hybrids cos it forces the electric motors to run with the possibility of causing damage.....you won't believe but the brake test is carried out when they drive the car out the exit gate,the reverse it as far as they can ,drive it a short distance and brake....and then drive around the corner to a parking space.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: mercenary for hire on January 31, 2020, 01:30:47 pm

(https://i.postimg.cc/0zDVf0YT/20200131-131821.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/0zDVf0YT)
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 01:34:05 pm
Knew there was something not right about it. That's fair enough I guess, presumably the brakes have to run the motor to charge the batteries or some such...
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: mercenary for hire on January 31, 2020, 01:47:59 pm
The leccy motor is the brakes I think.On mine it has two big leccy motors.One is used as a resistance magnet while braking to regenerate power back to the battery.

Like I said in the Micksgarage thread the calipers only get used below 7mph or emergency stops.Kinda explains the long life of the pads.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: mercenary for hire on January 31, 2020, 01:50:39 pm
I could be confused but right pedal for go and left for stop is all we need to tell the immigrants..
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on January 31, 2020, 04:12:58 pm
https://www.rsa.ie/en/Utility/News/2020/NCTS-update-Re-Vehicle-Inspection-Lifts1/ (https://www.rsa.ie/en/Utility/News/2020/NCTS-update-Re-Vehicle-Inspection-Lifts1/)
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: stonethecrows on January 31, 2020, 04:19:40 pm
https://www.rsa.ie/en/Utility/News/2020/NCTS-update-Re-Vehicle-Inspection-Lifts1/ (https://www.rsa.ie/en/Utility/News/2020/NCTS-update-Re-Vehicle-Inspection-Lifts1/)
Drop down to Skib to have your test completed and check out Ken on the Way.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 04:21:25 pm
Good news from NTA:

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/taxi-and-bus-licensing/statement-from-ncts-applus/ (https://www.nationaltransport.ie/taxi-and-bus-licensing/statement-from-ncts-applus/)

Statement from NCTS (Applus)

31/01/20
“31st January 2020

NCTS Update Re: Vehicle Inspection Lifts

NCTS can confirm that we have now recommenced underbody inspections in a small number of centres nationwide. The reinstated vehicle inspection lifts will only be used for those drivers who are due to undergo a Driving Test shortly, Taxi Drivers and those due for retest.

Those centres where underbody inspections have recommenced are:

 Deansgrange (South Dublin)
 Ballinasloe
 Athlone
 Skibbereen
 Ballina
 Enniscorthy

We would like to advise that this does not mean that full test inspections are available to all other customers at this time.

We expect to be in a position to reinstate more vehicle inspection lifts across the network and more information will be provided on this over the coming days.

All customers should continue to book and turn up for their NCT as normal. The test will be completed with the omission of the underbody inspection, however if the vehicle fails on another element of the test, they must present their vehicle for retest as normal.

All vehicle owners are reminded that the roadworthiness of their vehicle is their responsibility at all times. In addition, motorists are being advised to keep a copy of their Vehicle Inspection Report with them in order to present it to a member of An Garda Síochána, if required.

Once again, NCTS would like to apologise to all our customers for this inconvenience and we are endeavouring to restore normal service as soon as possible.

Further updates will be provided over the coming days.”
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Bob Shillin on January 31, 2020, 05:25:47 pm
That's good, have mine on Feb 10th, but need to find a rear DS light assembly cheap. It's an LED one and over €300 new. It's just the outside part of the light that is intermittent. Am told they are guys fixing them for €100+ but not a very reliable job.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 05:43:21 pm
If it's intermittent it might be alright? My rear DS lens has a bullet (size) hole in it and it passed both tests.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Bob Shillin on January 31, 2020, 05:56:29 pm
If it's intermittent it might be alright? My rear DS lens has a bullet (size) hole in it and it passed both tests.

Sometimes I look at it and it's dimmer but might pass in daylight. Other times there is no light at all from the side facing right. The side facing rear is ok. Suppose if he just checked them in a mirror I might get away with it, but I see a new one from Poland on ebay for €230. Don't want to chance a used one. Emailed them the VIN to confirm suitability.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 06:01:24 pm
Jeez... I remember when you could get a bulb for 26p in the motor factors... damn technology! Sounds like a job for the soldering iron, dry joints?
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: silverbullet on January 31, 2020, 06:29:45 pm
FFS its Ireland they will just reset the perimeters for the test lad will check for even ware on the tyres and that will indicate if tracking is ok then push down on the corners to check suspension .All they need to do is redesign the test .
Resetting the perimeters.
Is that not just skirting the issue?
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 06:45:11 pm
Yes, it's not... or no, it is... I'm not sure... maybe.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: silverbullet on January 31, 2020, 06:46:38 pm
Yes, it's not... or no, it is... I'm not sure... maybe.
The Erm is going at it in a Roundabout way
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Cool Boola on January 31, 2020, 09:58:43 pm
Those lifts are supposed to be certified every year...More double standards ....shirra
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on January 31, 2020, 10:03:43 pm
I guess a roundabout way is an improvement for the erm.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: the driver on February 01, 2020, 06:51:32 am
Those lifts are supposed to be certified every year...More double standards ....shirra
I was talking to a guy who works for the NCT co yesterday.He told me that because the lifts get so much use they are actually certified twice a year.The lifts are due to be replaced latter this year anyway as they are at the end of their working life.I think the whole thing is just a kneejerk reaction because of what happened in the North.I wonder how many lifts in the North were actually found to have cracks.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Tony on February 01, 2020, 12:08:57 pm
Those lifts are supposed to be certified every year...More double standards ....shirra
I was talking to a guy who works for the NCT co yesterday.He told me that because the lifts get so much use they are actually certified twice a year.The lifts are due to be replaced latter this year anyway as they are at the end of their working life.I think the whole thing is just a kneejerk reaction because of what happened in the North.I wonder how many lifts in the North were actually found to have cracks.

Only 2 were faulty
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on February 01, 2020, 02:43:27 pm
2 out of how many? One is one too many.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: silverbullet on February 01, 2020, 07:11:41 pm
Bring back the pits.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 03, 2020, 08:26:44 am
Rang NCT at 8 this morning re getting the underbody inspection bit done,i said i'd like Deansgrange,unfortunately only 2 of the centres are operational,Athlone and Ballinasloe.

No,i didn't pick either.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Lizzzy on February 03, 2020, 09:05:05 am
Rang NCT at 8 this morning re getting the underbody inspection bit done,i said i'd like Deansgrange,unfortunately only 2 of the centres are operational,Athlone and Ballinasloe.

No,i didn't pick either.

That's because you'd get lost !!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: stonethecrows on February 03, 2020, 09:08:35 am
Rang NCT at 8 this morning re getting the underbody inspection bit done,i said i'd like Deansgrange,unfortunately only 2 of the centres are operational,Athlone and Ballinasloe.

No,i didn't pick either.

That's because you'd get lost !!
Go on Hal, I'll miss you
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 03, 2020, 09:43:31 am
Rang NCT at 8 this morning re getting the underbody inspection bit done,i said i'd like Deansgrange,unfortunately only 2 of the centres are operational,Athlone and Ballinasloe.

No,i didn't pick either.

That's because you'd get lost !!

If this problem isn't resolved quickly there could be loads of punters waiting for taxis outside Vicar St!!

I care!!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Lizzzy on February 03, 2020, 09:53:48 am
Rang NCT at 8 this morning re getting the underbody inspection bit done,i said i'd like Deansgrange,unfortunately only 2 of the centres are operational,Athlone and Ballinasloe.

No,i didn't pick either.

That's because you'd get lost !!

If this problem isn't resolved quickly there could be loads of punters waiting for taxis outside Vicar St!!

I care!!!

Don't mention Vicar St !
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: stonethecrows on February 03, 2020, 12:38:02 pm
What happens to a frog's car when it breaks down?


It gets toad away  rofl
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 03, 2020, 12:42:26 pm
Anyways....apparently there's four centres operating now,got an appointment for Deansgrange tomorrow night at 10.40.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: stonethecrows on February 03, 2020, 12:43:47 pm
Anyways....apparently there's four centres operating now,got an appointment for Deansgrange tomorrow night at 10.40.
Super Hal, best of luck
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on February 03, 2020, 04:39:03 pm
https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/views/columnists/terry-prone-nct-doesnt-pass-the-test-on-its-reaction-to-scissor-lift-issue-979352.html (https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/views/columnists/terry-prone-nct-doesnt-pass-the-test-on-its-reaction-to-scissor-lift-issue-979352.html)

Terry Prone: NCT doesn’t pass the test on its reaction to scissor lift issue

Problems identified at motor test centres in the North led to NCT centres in the Republic suspending the portion of the test that involves examining the vehicle’s underbody.

By Terry Prone
Sunday, February 02, 2020 - 07:12 PM

If you listened to Grant Henderson, the top guy on the radio this week, you would think the NCT has handled their scissor lift problem in exemplary fashion.

Grant Henderson is a Scot variously described as “CEO”, “general manager”, and sometimes as “country manager” of Applus Auto, which relates to the Irish National Accreditation Board, which in turn relates to the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

On radio, he was calmly assured. Once the problem with the lifts had been identified, the NCT lads had sat down and had a good think about what they should do. They decided the MOT guys in the North were all wrong to close the whole thing down for three months.

Much better to get car owners to pitch up with their cars, get the topside examined and certified, and then get them to come back when the lifts were fixed in order to get the undersides of their vehicles looked at.

No problem, I hear you say. No problem if your car has been NCT’d in recent months and passed with distinction.

Big problem if you’re a driver whose car is up against an NCT deadline.

At the very least, Mr Henderson’s confidently advanced system means you’ve to take two half-days off work, not one, in order to attend the test centre for underside scrutiny.

And that’s not factoring in the possibility that your car’s underside might reveal something negative, in which case that’s a day and a half off work.

The theory was that you’d get some class of a bit of paper saying you were grand except for your underside, which might also be grand, but — due to scissor lift issues, hadn’t been looked at.

Assuming a guard stopped you, worried about your roadworthiness, this piece of paper would see you right. Except that, the very next day, a woman told Joe Duffy that the bit of paper she received said her car was failed due to the inability to look underneath it.

In other words, the conditional pass implicit in Grant Henderson’s comments turned into an unconditional fail. Which meant, as far as she was concerned, that to stay on the road, which was essential to her economic survival, she would have to buy a new car. To replace a car that might have nothing at all wrong with it.

You may believe this new car suggestion excessive, but the fact is that driving a car without an NCT is illegal.

The gardaí are reasonable and, if you produced a certificate saying “my vehicle has been found not guilty except for its nether reasons — it is an innocent victim of the NCT lift issue”, would probably accept that.

This problem is what was implied by the NCT folk. It is what sounded cool and groovy at first hearing. It is not what has been delivered.

But, even if it had been delivered, it wouldn’t, or at least shouldn’t, have worked. The thing is that, just as you can’t be half pregnant, you can’t be half roadworthy.

It’s an either/or situation, and it matters to more than the gardaí. Can driver’s licence testers accept an illegal car to do a driver’s test? Doubtful.

The NCT recommends you pay a private garage to test your car (mechanics charge in the region of €50 for this) then take time off to do a non-NCT NCT, then drive around in a failed car while they fix their machinery, then take time off again to complete your test.

But what if you fail your first half test while the lifts are broken? Will you have to do this half-test, fail it, get that stuff fixed, come back, get another half test, then come back again when the lifts are fixed?

This is a nightmare scenario, despite the CEO of the NCT being happy out that his arduous, costly, environmentally negative, and legally questionable approach is much better than the North’s simpler extension of the existing MOT accreditation.

It’s when you dig down into this event that its management looks even more ropey. This issue (according to the BBC) was spotted in a test centre in Larne in November by the lift manufacturer who supplies both the North and the Republic.

They told the North’s authorities who commenced a full review. If they did not simultaneously inform NCT, that’s amazing and also problematic.

As amazing and problematic as the NCT not knowing of a total review of identical equipment north of the border until nearly three months after that review started, even though, within those three months, the review had revealed widespread cracks in the North’s lifts.

That ignorance is not the fault of the supplier, but suggests an unbelievable paucity of collegial contact and information sharing.

The NCT has become a fact of life, costly and irritating though it may be.

Drivers have been trained into acceptance, and to raise a cheep about it is to risk being assumed not to care about road safety.

This is because the language around vehicle safety has led us to believe that the NCT does vital work. For instance, the RSA told us last year that, in relation to 14 deaths each year, tyres were a contributory factor.

Oh, we might reasonably think in response to this information, isn’t it great that we have the NCT to catch cars with bad tyres and prevent such deaths?

But the word ‘contributory’ is important. Contribution and cause are two very different things. Here’s a direct quote from the RSA to throw some light on it. In 66 crashes in a given year, where the car had ‘bad tyres’, 63 were not actually caused by those tyres.

Here’s how the RSA puts it: “In the majority of the 66 collisions involving defective tyres, it was a combination of tyres and behavioural factors such as the presence of alcohol, drugs, speed, distraction, fatigue factors that led to the final outcome of the collision.”

The tyres are put up at the top of the list, so the logical inference is that they caused the collisions. Logical, but wrong. Very wrong. In those crashes, the driver was high, drunk, speeding or asleep. In addition, their car had shiny tyres. Guess what caused the crash? And guess what the NCT will make no difference to?

The NCT is emotionally appealing. We feel that it’s taking ‘death-traps’ off the road.

In reality, the numbers don’t show that. According to the RSA and the gardaí, the percentage of fatal crashes caused by vehicle defects is .3%. Not three percent. Point three percent.

Bottom line, a careless pedestrian is two thousand percent more likely to cause a fatal collision than a wheel falling off.

Even if you just love the idea of a car test, you won’t find evidence that letting people wait until the lifts are fixed, then doing their test will have any effect on anything. The decision has been made to force people to lose money and time so that a bureaucracy can continue to tick pointless boxes.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 03, 2020, 04:52:28 pm
I'm sure if people stopped paying for two thirds of a test and stopped booking altogether until the problem is resolved there might have been a different response,as it stands Applus are losing no money whatsoever but as plastic face Terry says motorists will have to return twice if not four times.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: stonethecrows on February 03, 2020, 04:59:53 pm
Hal surely you dont have to pay for the 2nd visit because of there lifts not working ?
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on February 03, 2020, 05:03:17 pm
I like Terry... talks a lot of sense and was always a pleasure to drive or deliver the Sunday papers to back when I worked for Blue Cabs. However, surely the NCT is a significant factor in the percentage of fatal crashes caused by vehicle defects being 0.3%.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 03, 2020, 05:19:12 pm
Hal surely you dont have to pay for the 2nd visit because of there lifts not working ?

No that's free....unless of course you fail something in the first two thirds,then the retest fee applies and you have to complete that within 30 days...but if the lift problem isn't resolved before you complete the retest and then you have to go back for the underbody inspection(which is free)...and you happen to fail something on that...then it's another retest fee for that!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Bob Shillin on February 03, 2020, 05:22:40 pm
Always thought that analysis and data from accidents causing serious injury or death should be much, much more comprehensive than currently so.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 03, 2020, 05:28:21 pm
I suppose a window winder or mirror motor not working is probably responsible for 85% of accidents....on the M50.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Rat Catcher on February 03, 2020, 05:34:01 pm
They wouldn't stand any chance of being factors if identified during the NCT and subsequently repaired. However, with the best will in the world some will get through and probably other even more dangerous faults... we do live in Ireland and most cars have ashtrays or spaces where ashtrays used to be.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: silverbullet on February 03, 2020, 10:17:39 pm
I like Terry... talks a lot of sense and was always a pleasure to drive or deliver the Sunday papers to back when I worked for Blue Cabs. However, surely the NCT is a significant factor in the percentage of fatal crashes caused by vehicle defects being 0.3%.
You'd like Terry Prone!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 03, 2020, 10:19:30 pm
I like Terry... talks a lot of sense and was always a pleasure to drive or deliver the Sunday papers to back when I worked for Blue Cabs. However, surely the NCT is a significant factor in the percentage of fatal crashes caused by vehicle defects being 0.3%.
You'd like Terry Prone!

Plaster of Prone
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Cool Boola on February 04, 2020, 10:44:37 am
I had Terry in the back of my taxi too...Very direct woman....She gets right to the point!!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 04, 2020, 11:13:31 am
I had Terry in the back of my taxi too...Very direct woman....She gets right to the point!!!

Sounds kinda kinky Cool!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Cool Boola on February 04, 2020, 04:49:23 pm
Do...so you know her too?
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: silverbullet on February 04, 2020, 07:04:49 pm
She lives in a Martello Tower in Portrane.
She has Turrets!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Cool Boola on February 04, 2020, 09:35:23 pm
Torrect
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 05, 2020, 12:30:28 am
Anyways....apparently there's four centres operating now,got an appointment for Deansgrange tomorrow night at 10.40.

Popped into Deansgrange at 9.40pm,an hour before my appointment,place was empty except for one other customer who's car was in the process of being tested...anyways,passed with an advisory that the rear pads were close to min wear....i had a look at them when i serviced it back in Nov and there was plenty of life left in the pads but not surprised given that i've never changed them and there's just over 339k on it now....was it's last NCT as a taxi....RIP!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: mercenary for hire on February 05, 2020, 08:42:37 am
RIP.
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Octavia1 on February 05, 2020, 10:01:50 am
The psychopath tony quinn lives in that tower yu know yur man that used to sell wonder pills to make yu live forever an had loads volunteers working for him who actually paid tony Quinn so they cud work for him and be near em......or he used to live ther ...not easy to burgle one of them martello.....or break in at nite and demand yur life savings back ......nawful cnut he was ....new a bloke went to him an ended up on kidney dialysis poor cnut ......dead now
Poor cnut
(https://i.postimg.cc/6TdhPJgX/giphy.gif) (https://postimg.cc/6TdhPJgX)
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Cool Boola on February 05, 2020, 11:58:54 am
He still has a shop in the Square in Tallaght..I hate passing it cos a woman always comes out and says...I'm  only 53 and just look at my body...Buy a bottle of pills for one month at 85 euro and the ginsing in it will keep your wife very happy...She is very persuasive.Asked her about Tony and if she was married to him but she just fobs me off with ...I can let you have 3 months pills for 150 euros 2day...I always say that I have to go to the toilet cos I have the runs...She never remembers me...(sad)
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: stonethecrows on February 05, 2020, 01:11:31 pm
He still has a shop in the Square in Tallaght..I hate passing it cos a woman always comes out and says...I'm  only 53 and just look at my body...Buy a bottle of pills for one month at 85 euro and the ginsing in it will keep your wife very happy...She is very persuasive.Asked her about Tony and if she was married to him but she just fobs me off with ...I can let you have 3 months pills for 150 euros 2day...I always say that I have to go to the toilet cos I have the runs...She never remembers me...(sad)
You could have told her your not married
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Shallowhal on February 05, 2020, 01:15:22 pm
He still has a shop in the Square in Tallaght..I hate passing it cos a woman always comes out and says...I'm  only 53 and just look at my body...Buy a bottle of pills for one month at 85 euro and the ginsing in it will keep your wife very happy...She is very persuasive.Asked her about Tony and if she was married to him but she just fobs me off with ...I can let you have 3 months pills for 150 euros 2day...I always say that I have to go to the toilet cos I have the runs...She never remembers me...(sad)
You could have told her your not married

...and give her Octys number!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: stonethecrows on February 05, 2020, 02:06:17 pm
He still has a shop in the Square in Tallaght..I hate passing it cos a woman always comes out and says...I'm  only 53 and just look at my body...Buy a bottle of pills for one month at 85 euro and the ginsing in it will keep your wife very happy...She is very persuasive.Asked her about Tony and if she was married to him but she just fobs me off with ...I can let you have 3 months pills for 150 euros 2day...I always say that I have to go to the toilet cos I have the runs...She never remembers me...(sad)
You could have told her your not married

...and give her Octys number!!
Make sure she has a telly first and a nice "rusty bullet hole" for him to park his bike !!!
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Vikkiz on February 05, 2020, 08:06:47 pm
He still has a shop in the Square in Tallaght..I hate passing it cos a woman always comes out and says...I'm  only 53 and just look at my body...Buy a bottle of pills for one month at 85 euro and the ginsing in it will keep your wife very happy...She is very persuasive.Asked her about Tony and if she was married to him but she just fobs me off with ...I can let you have 3 months pills for 150 euros 2day...I always say that I have to go to the toilet cos I have the runs...She never remembers me...(sad)
You could have told her your not married

...and give her Octys number!!
Make sure she has a telly first and a nice "rusty bullet hole" for him to park his bike !!!
He’s getting desperate so isn’t too fussy anymore
Title: Re: NCT Ramps Problems
Post by: Cool Boola on February 08, 2020, 02:45:00 am
Even if Tony Quinn has handled it???,,,