VOSA Changes to Vehicle Testing Form January 2012

This is the additional VOSA testing procedures that become effective on 1st January 2012 and have been copied from the article by Roger Parker in Enjoying MG. The full details can be obtained from the VOSA website.

The general areas of change are:-
 Dashboard warning lights – must work including ABS,SRS,TPMS, ESC, EPAS & low brake fluid warning.
 Lighting switches must operate immediately without tapping/tweaking to make it work.
 Steering locks – must lock with key removed.
 PAS – condition of pipes/hoses damage/chafing will fail – fluid level check (clear reservoirs only) low fluid & leaks will fail.
 Driver’s seat adjustment mechanism, including electric operation, must work.
 Ball joint seals/dust covers must be undamaged or fail.
 CV joint boots must be undamaged, including inner ones.
 Engine mountings will also be tested for wear, damage etc., any will fail.
 Battery insecurity, wiring damage or incorrect/ inappropriate fitting will attract a fail.
 Towing electrics will be tested and faults will attract a fail.
 Tow bars will be tested, just removing the ball will not stop the remainder being tested.
 Fuel pipe chaffing or damage will attract a fail, not just leaks, but a new LPG leak test arrives.
 A missing catalyst attracts a fail, even if the car meets the emission standards.

There is also information that some specific inspection of HID and LED headlamps will be introduced with specific implications for non-original manufacturer fit of specifically HID headlamp conversions (and some accessory brighter bulb conversions)

Engine modifications are being considered, mainly related to “chip tuning” and non-manufacturer changes, to be failure points.

There is also a proposal under consideration to scrap the MoT test for cars made before 1960, this will save the motorist and government money, especially as it was considered that the majority of these “classic” vehicles were in good roadworthy condition.

Interesting stuff, Bryan! :thumbsup:

Thanks for the heads up on those changes Bryan. Forewarned is forearmed :thumbsup: