DVSA bulletin on tacho error message

The Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has issued advice to heavy vehicle operators regarding an error message that is reportedly being wrongly displayed and recorded by some Stoneridge SE5000 ‘transitional’ smart 2 tachograph devices.

The error prompts the display of the words ‘hardware sabotage’ on the screen, says DVSA, and an event to be recorded in the tachograph.

“We have received assurances from Stoneridge that this error does not affect the working of the tachograph,” said the agency.

“It will continue to operate correctly, even when displaying the message

“Vehicle operators can still use vehicles with these tachographs fitted. DVSA examiners can check the proper functioning of the tachograph. No action will be taken when this issue is identified in isolation.”

DVSA said Stoneridge would publish details of any rectification once available.

“If a driver sees this error message, we advise them to take a manual printout so they can present this at a roadside stop if needed,” DVSA said, but added that it could not currently advise international operators on how other enforcement agencies would handle the issue.