Navigating brake testing changes with Liftmaster
Workshop equipment specialist Liftmaster has issued a reminder to authorised testing facilities (ATF) about mandatory software upgrades for roller brake testers, which need to take place by December 2025.
The requirements come in the wake of updates to brake testing regulations that took effect from April, underlining the DVSA’s expectation that vehicles are laden when undergoing brake tests.
“The move marked a clear step forward in aligning test conditions with real-world safety standards, ensuring that commercial vehicles are assessed under load rather than in unrealistic, unladen scenarios,” said Liftmaster.
“Now, with the laden testing requirement firmly in place, ATFs must look ahead to the next major milestone: mandatory software upgrades on all roller brake testers (RBTs) by December 2025.
“While the transition has presented operational challenges for some sites, it also offers a chance to modernise processes and improve the accuracy, safety, and consistency of brake testing across the board.”
Together, the changes are reshaping how brake performance is assessed and reported, says Liftmaster, making test data more reliable for operators, technicians, and fleet managers alike.
While the software comes pre-installed on new RBTs, says Liftmaster, older models may need either a software upgrade or full replacement, depending on compatibility.
“The updated software brings significant improvements to the brake testing process, including: streamlined workflows for quicker, more efficient testing; on-screen warnings for binding brakes, ovality, and potential tyre damage; enhanced printouts with clearer, more detailed test results; RAG (red-amber-green) feedback system to highlight issues during testing; [and] simplified reports that clearly flag advisories and deficiencies,” it said.
“Together, these updates help technicians identify issues faster and provide fleet operators with greater transparency and confidence in their test results.”
For many ATFs, these changes will require investment in both equipment and training, says Liftmaster.
“Some sites will need to upgrade their current brake tester; others may need to completely replace outdated systems. Workshops that act early can minimise downtime, avoid bottlenecks closer to the deadline, and ensure a smooth transition.
“At Liftmaster, we strongly recommend auditing your current brake tester setup as soon as possible to identify any compliance gaps. Manufacturers across the industry are already experiencing increased demand for DVSA-compliant systems.”
The BM14200 in-ground roller brake tester, supplied by Liftmaster, has emerged as a go-to solution for many ATFs navigating these changes, the company says.
“Fully compliant with DVSA’s latest standards, the BM14200 supports all new software features and is built to handle the high throughput of modern commercial testing environments.
“What sets this model apart is its ability to fit directly into most existing brake tester recesses, meaning minimal groundworks and reduced disruption to daily operations.
“In a recent project, Liftmaster removed an outdated unit, modified the ducting, and installed and commissioned a new BM14200 in just three days – all while the ATF lane remained operational. The result? A fully compliant, future-ready facility completed on time and with minimal disruption.”
The company added: “These regulatory updates aren’t just a legal requirement – they represent a critical step forward in workshop safety, operational efficiency, and test consistency. ATFs that prepare early won’t just stay compliant – they’ll gain a competitive edge by offering fleet operators a more reliable, future-proofed testing service.
“At Liftmaster, we offer end-to-end support to help your site upgrade in line with DVSA’s evolving standards. From equipment specification to groundworks, installation, and aftercare, we ensure your workshop is ready for what comes next.”
