2012 changes to MOT

MOT changes for 2011/12 confirmed by VOSA

Following my previous post on VOSA’s proposed changes, more detail included below.

These are all new confirmed VOSA stipulations which are being applied to MOT tests gradually throughout 2011/12 as a result of new EU directives.

Steering control

Change to MOT: Where a steering lock mechanism is fitted as standard, testers must now check if one is present and operational.

Steering system

Change to MOT: Before the days of MOT Computerisation, many testers incorrectly failed steering and suspension ball joints if the dust cover was split or missing.  These items will be included in the test – so if a ball joint dust cover is missing or no longer keeps the dirt out, testers will  fail the vehicle.

Power steering
Changes to MOT: Checks to power steering will now include a check of the fluid level. But because there is no need to remove the reservoir cap, the check will only apply where the fluid level is visible in the reservoir.

Any inappropriate repair or modification to a power steering component will result in a failure – so a pair of tights in place of the drive belt will not be acceptable!

The serious misalignment or fouling of power steering components is also  failure. If fluid pipes are excessively corroded, this will also be a failure.

If a power steering warning light is illuminated this is also an automatic MOT failure.

Parking brake lever mechanism and associated mountings
Change to MOT: Electronic parking brake (EPB) controls have been added, and MOT testers will make sure that all parking brake controls have not been ‘inappropriately repaired or modified’.

If the vehicle is fitted with an electronic parking break, the MOT testers will check for any warning lamps indicate a faults.  If there are, again this is a fail.

Anti-lock braking systems
Change to MOT: Where there is a warning light illuminated, this will be an automatic MOT failure.

Brake performance
Change to MOT: Another new MOT rule which will be in place before end of 2011,  if during a
decelerometer test, the vehicle deviates from a straight line whenthe parking brake is applied, guess what… it’s a fail!

 

Click the below images for an overview of confirmed MOT changes