Changes to MOT regulation came into effect on Sunday 20th May 2018. Whilst HGVs are affected by other tests, many commercial vans may find themselves affected when they have their next MOT test.

Vehicle faults will now be categorised as either minor, major or dangerous.

It has now become a legal offence not to record any dangerous, major or minor defects. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action taken by the DVSA.

Classifications

Vehicle classifications are due to come into line with European approved categories, however the old classes are being maintained for the time being.

Check out how your vehicle will be affected on the Gov.uk website and get up to scratch with the new MOT inspection manual and testing specifications.

All standard cars are to be classified as ‘M1’, with all goods vehicle up to 3,500kg gross weight (DGW) being classified as ‘N1’.

Larger vehicles will now be subject to additional testing and checks, carried out by MOT test centres.

New Certificate & Standards

Previous roadworthiness classifications are still valid until your next MOT test. After your MOT test, you will be presented with the altered MOT certificate and will have to conform to any additional services now required to pass the new standards.

New tests and checks include

• Stronger diesel emissions tests
• Under-inflated tyres
• Brake fluid contamination
• Fluid leaks
• Brake pad warning lights and if any brake pads or discs are missing
• Reversing lights on vehicles first used from 1 September 2009
• Headlight washers on vehicles first used from 1 September 2009 still work (if they have them)
• Daytime running lights on vehicles first used from 1 March 2018 still work

The changes have been implemented per the requirements of the EU Directive 2014/45 which came into affect this year.

Despite Britain’s imminent departure from the European Union failure to comply with the new legislation could have resulted in a substantial fine for the UK goverment. It is currently unclear whether the new standards will remain once we have left the EU.

What do you think of the new MOT test? How will it affect the yearly testing required for your van? Let us know