Posted on the 12th November 2026 in PHTM News

WEST FIFE TAXIS FAIL INSPECTIONS OVER SOOT FILLED CABS AND DOORS HELD TOGETHER WITH STRING

Nineteen taxis and private hire vehicless in West Fife failed safety inspections after checks uncovered severe faults, including dangerous exhaust fumes turning seats black with soot and a sliding door held together with string.

Between July and September, 168 vehicles were tested in the area. The 19 failures caused the first-time pass rate to drop by nine per cent, falling from 98 per cent in March 2026 to 89 per cent. All 19 vehicles later passed a re-test.

In comparison, 106 out of 108 vehicles passed their first inspection in Kirkcaldy over the same period, maintaining a 98 per cent pass rate, with the remaining two passing on re-test.

Speaking to Fife Council’s Regulation and Licensing Committee, Fleet Operations Service Manager Billy Ferguson said he was “disappointed” by the drop in West Fife and admitted he “hadn’t seen anything like it” regarding the leaking exhaust.

“All the seats were black with soot,” he told councillors. “While these results are concerning, I would like to congratulate those operators whose vehicles achieved first time passes for their continued commitment to maintaining vehicles to the high standard expected. The reduction in performance highlights the need for increased attention to maintenance.”

Nearly half of the failed vehicles belonged to just two operators, with one responsible for five failures and another for four.

Committee convener Councillor Tom Adams described the situation as “absolutely disgraceful”. He said: “This is quite disappointing for me when you consider the West Fife area has normally been pretty good with their tests. This is quite a large disappointment to see 19 of them have failed. Especially when I look at them and half of them are coming from two operators.”

Councillor Carol Lindsay said the faults – which also included an engine oil leak – were “not acceptable” and successfully proposed a motion to summon three of the operators and drivers before the committee at a future date.

Councillor David MacDiarmid backed the move, adding: “Tyres, exhaust fumes going into the cab, I have not seen anything as bad as this in many, many years.”

The remaining operators whose vehicles failed will be subjected to random spot checks and must attend a meeting with the committee’s convener and vice convener.


Read another story