Fife vehicle inspection report reveals big drop in taxi and private hire standards prompting concerns
- Perry Richardson
- May 9
- 1 min read
The latest annual inspection results for taxis and private hire cars in the East Fife area show a marked decline in first-time pass rates, according to a report presented to Fife Council’s Regulation and Licensing Committee on 6 May.
Inspections carried out between February and April 2025 found that just 78% of the 206 vehicles tested passed on their first attempt. This marks a fall from the previous year’s figure of 85% when 222 vehicles were tested. The remaining 22% of vehicles failed initially, with 43 passing on retest and two still awaiting retesting.
A full summary of the vehicle test results and faults was submitted in the report by Billy Ferguson, Service Manager for Fleet Operations. It highlighted a range of mechanical and safety issues among the failed vehicles. Common problems included excessive oil leaks, damaged or illegal seat belts, ineffective handbrakes, worn suspension components, and non-functional safety equipment such as fire extinguishers.
In some cases, licence plates were removed from vehicles due to the seriousness of the faults, and several operators are yet to present their vehicles for retesting.
The committee was reminded of its powers to act in response to the findings. Options include requiring random tests for failed vehicles, holding meetings with operators about maintenance practices, arranging attendance at Fleet Operations open days, or considering formal licence suspension proceedings under existing legislation.
In contrast, those operators whose vehicles passed on the first attempt were acknowledged for maintaining their vehicles in suitable condition. However, the overall decrease in performance compared to 2024 was noted with concern.
