Laden brake test warning

Image courtesy DVSA

DVSA has reminded operators that from 1 January 2023, it will refuse to perform annual roadworthiness for most vehicles and trailers if presented unladen.

There are limited exemptions: including tri-axle semitrailers, and refuse collection vehicles.

In most circumstances, to achieve maximum adhesion between the brake tester roller and the tyre, vehicles must be loaded to at least 65 per cent of their design axle weights with cargo or ballast to achieve this. Otherwise, a premature lock-up may prevent an accurate reading. Brake actuation pressure will also be maximised.

The traffic commissioners and DVSA have placed great emphasis on the importance of brake testing since the 2014 Bath tipper tragedy, with the support of all industry bodies.

DVSA says the effort is paying off. In 2014, 3.3 per cent of heavy goods motor vehicles failed their annual test on service brake performance. In the last quarter of 2021, that had reduced to 1.88 per cent.