An attempt to implement safety checks on non-OE aftermarket parts during the MoT test has been blocked by independent garages and component suppliers.

It came to light during drafting of measures defining the scope of a periodic technical inspection (PTI) such as an MoT test required by new European Union legislation on the roadworthiness testing of vehicles, Directive 2014/45/EU, which entered into force in May.

In the draft proposals, an obligation to check “non-OEM replacement parts or after-sales parts” was included with the explanation: “In case of non-OEM replacement parts or after-sales parts, that largely deviate from the original parts, their impact on the safe use of the vehicle has to be carefully assessed by the inspector. A downgrading of the level of safety of the vehicle shall not be acceptable.”

However the obligation has been removed following lobbying by the aftermarket trade associations FIFIEFA and IAAF to the Commission Directorate General for Transport.

They claimed it was "discriminatory" to the aftermarket and it would have set vehicle manufacturers’ individual original parts specifications as the benchmark.

Wendy Williamson, IAAF chief executive, said: “This is another victory for the independent aftermarket but demonstrates the continuing threat to “lock out” the trade from servicing and repairing vehicles.

"The IAAF will continue to lead the UK’s response to such threats and work closely with FIGIEFA to ensure that the rights and choice of both the aftermarket and motorist are protected.”