The “Fail Dangerous” Epidemic: 133,000 Cars Off the Road

As we move into February 2026, the NCT backlog has taken a sinister turn. It is no longer just a “waiting list” problem; it is a vehicle quality crisis. Latest figures from the RSA reveal that in 2025, a staggering 133,000 vehicles were slapped with a “Fail Dangerous” result. That is roughly 1 in every 13 cars submitted to Applus+ testing lanes being deemed unfit to even drive away from the NCTS centre.

For drivers in Meath, Cavan, and Clare, the news is even grimmer. These counties have recorded some of the highest “Fail Dangerous” rates in the country, leading to a surge in immediate re-tests that are gridlocking the system. When a car fails dangerous, it consumes two slots: the original failed test and the mandatory equipment-based re-test required within 21 days. This “re-test cycle” is exactly why your “Next Available Date” in Navan or Northpoint is currently showing as August 2026.

How much is the NCT re-test fee in 2026?

In 2026, the fee for a “lane re-test” (which requires the use of NCTS diagnostic equipment) is €40.00. A visual-only re-test remains free of charge. However, if you fail to attend your re-test or miss the 21-day window, you must pay the full €60.00 fee for a completely new inspection.

County / Centre	“Fail Dangerous” Rate	Avg. Wait Time (2026)	Status
Cavan	9.2%	18 Weeks	High Demand
Meath (Navan)	8.8%	22 Weeks	Critical
Dublin (Northpoint)	8.1%	26 Weeks	Critical
Clare (Ennis)	8.5%	14 Weeks	Moderate

Navan and Northpoint: The Epicentre of the Crisis

If you are trying to book an NCT in Navan or any of the Dublin hubs like Northpoint 1, you are fighting for slots in the most congested lanes in Ireland. The RSA reports that the high volume of “Fail Major” results for suspension and steering linkages—often blamed on the state of regional roads—is forcing more cars into re-tests than the current staffing levels can handle.

The Gardaí have increased ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) patrols specifically around these “Critical” centres. If your Test Disc is expired and your car shows visible defects like bald tyres, you are an easy target for 3 to 5 penalty points under the Road Traffic Act.

Insurance Ireland’s 2026 Stance

The insurance industry has issued a “Red Alert” for motorists. While Insurance Ireland previously suggested insurers would be flexible, the 2026 reality is stricter. If your car is involved in a collision and holds a “Fail Dangerous” history that was never rectified, your Certificate of Roadworthiness (CRW) is void, and your provider may refuse to cover the costs of your own vehicle repairs. Roadworthiness is a 24/7 legal obligation, not just a once-a-year event.

Solution: Skip the Fail-Retest Cycle

Preparation is the only way to beat the system. Do not become one of the 133,000 drivers stuck in re-test hell. We strongly recommend checking our guide to common NCT fail reasons to fix simple issues before your appointment.

If you are tired of waiting for the Applus+ calendar to turn green, use our NCT appointment bot. We monitor every testing lane in Ireland, from Little Island to Letterkenny, and snag NCT cancellation slots the second they appear. Don’t wait until August—secure your test this week and keep your Licence clean. Check your local centre availability on our locations list today.