Part of the road worthiness test for cars in Ireland is to be temporarily suspended, pending the outcome of an inspection to check the safety of vehicle lifts used in testing centres.

The suspension is effective immediately, although car owners are still being asked to turn up for their National Car Test as scheduled.

Vehicles will continue to be put through the stages of the test that do not require elevation, but not the underbody inspection which involves elevating them on a hoist.

The move follows concerns around the possible safety of some of the lifts used in the test centres.

Earlier this week the vast majority of MoT tests in Northern Ireland were suspended indefinitely after signs of cracking were found in lifts there.

National Car Test Service (NCTS) operating company, Applus+, said the lifts used in Irish NCT centres are a similar make and model.

"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," it said in a statement posted on the NCTS.ie website.

"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."

Vehicle owners will then have to return for the incomplete part of the test, once the audit has been finished and any issues with the equipment resolved.

"All customers should continue to book and turn up for their NCT as normal," it said.

"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."

Applus+ said customers will not incur any additional costs as part of the process.

"Our priority at this point and time is for the safety of our staff and our customers' property," it said

"We do sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause."

The decision will impact 100 vehicle inspection scissor lifts in all 47 NCTS centres.

Applus+ said that as the condition of the lifts is established, remedial action will be determined and implemented where needed.

"All scissor lifts are due for replacement from June 2020 and we are in dialogue with the manufacturer to escalate the production and bring forward the installation of these new lifts," it said.

Applus+ also urged vehicle owners to continue to book their NCT and turn up as normal for the test.

"All other elements of the test including lights, emissions, upper body exterior, vehicle interior, brakes, suspension and wheel alignment will be tested as normal," it said.

The company said Vehicle Inspection reports will be issued at the time of the testing and certificates will be issued when all stages of the test have been completed.

The Road Safety Authority has informed gardaí about the issue and is liaising with them on any potential issues arising, it said.

It is an offence to not have a valid NCT displayed in a car that is old enough to require one.

Applus+ said it became aware of the issue two days ago.