Continental issues brake test update
Continental has highlighted recent significant developments in the market affecting brake testing, including an increase in enquiries relating to load simulation systems, and a number of changes to regulations and official guidance.
The company highlights the fact that braking-related issues are regularly among the top reasons for failure at annual test, according to DVSA data.
“It has been nearly six months now since mandatory laden brake testing was introduced on 1 January 2023 for all HGVs and trailers, unless exempt,” said Stuart West, product manager at Continental.
“However, although some commercial vehicles are considered exempt from carrying out brake tests laden, DVSA advise that load should be applied for tests where possible (in most cases, vehicles must be loaded to at least 65 per cent of their design axle weights). Failure to do so could lead to early lockups, which can result in potentially low brake force readings and ‘fail’ results.
“Continental has seen an increase in enquiries to support workshops with load simulation systems that can be fitted alongside a brake tester or retrofitted to most brake tester makes and models, helping to deliver a laden brake test and reduce some of the risks associated with unladen testing, such as early lock up. This point was echoed in the new Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness, recently released…
“Further changes on commercial vehicle brake testing came into effect from 1 April 2023 with changes to [the] public service vehicle (PSV) inspection manual, where sections were updated to clarify brake efficiency calculations for gross weight (vehicles before 1982) and design weights (after 1982) if vehicles don’t get any lock up on the test; and changes to calibration requirements as HGV brake testers can now only be calibrated by approved engineers.”
It is important for workshops to take note of these changes and the impact, says Stuart.
“It is, at the end of the day, the workshop’s responsibility to ensure the brake tests are carried out in accordance with the guidance and requirements set out by the DVSA, as well as ensuring this equipment is calibrated by an appropriately certified engineer,” he continued.
“Continental are doing everything they can to service the industry and commercial vehicle workshops, aiming to take away any stress and concern, ensuring that all the high quality equipment supplied is strongly supported by a dedicated team of sales managers, appropriately certified engineers, technical service support and an array of different service agreements available to suit individual workshop needs and keep business moving.”
