Tue, September 10, 2024
HGV Brake Testing: Requirements, Costs, and Procedures
Regular brake testing for HGVs is essential to ensure road safety, as faulty brakes can lead to dangerous accidents. The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA), now part of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), sets strict standards for HGV brake testing to ensure that vehicles are roadworthy and meet safety regulations.
HGV Brake Testing Requirements
VOSA HGV Brake Test Requirements
Legal Requirements: HGVs must undergo regular brake tests, and these are typically conducted during routine maintenance checks and annual MOT tests.
Conducting the Test: Tests must be performed using a roller brake tester (RBT), which measures braking efficiency, force, and imbalance. It’s vital that the vehicle be loaded to at least 65% of its maximum weight for an accurate test, unless design limitations prevent this.
Frequency and Costs of HGV Brake Testing
How Often Does an HGV Need a Brake Test?
HGVs are legally required to undergo brake testing at least once a year as part of the MOT. Additionally, DVSA recommends at least three further brake tests throughout the year to ensure continued roadworthiness.
HGV Brake Testing Cost
The cost of brake testing can vary based on the facility used and the number of axles on the vehicle. On average:
MOT for a 2-axle HGV: £91.
MOT for a 3-axle HGV: £113.
Additional Service Charges: ATFs may charge a service fee (typically £55 for HGVs) for using their facilities.
HGV Brake Tests Per Year
DVSA recommends at least four brake tests per year, including the annual MOT. Additional tests may be required if the vehicle is used under particularly heavy or strenuous conditions.
Performing and Calculating HGV Brake Tests
How Do You Calculate HGV Brake Test?
Brake testing measures the braking force applied by each axle, along with the deceleration rate. The efficiency is calculated by dividing the brake force by the vehicle's weight. For an HGV to pass, it must achieve a minimum brake efficiency of 50%.
How Do You Perform a Brake Test?
Roller Brake Testing: The vehicle’s wheels are placed on rollers, which measure braking force when the brakes are applied.
Checks: The test includes measurements of brake imbalance (should not exceed 30%), sovality (variation in brake force per wheel rotation), and any brake bind (sticking brakes).
What Is the Standard of Testing Brakes?
The DVSA mandates that HGVs must pass with at least 50% braking efficiency and that no axle should show an imbalance greater than 30%. If brakes fail in these areas, immediate repairs are required.
Conclusion
Maintaining regular brake tests is crucial for ensuring the safety of HGVs on the road. Proper adherence to DVSA standards not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also helps to prevent costly accidents caused by brake failure. Regularly scheduled brake tests and proper maintenance are key to ensuring that HGVs operate safely and efficiently.
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