Categorisation of

vehicle defects

Issue Date February 2017 Section B Page i

 Categorisation of Defects
April 2023
Version 1.0

Helping you stay safe on Britain's roads

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

1 This Guide is intended primarily for the use of Part 2 is for cars, private buses and light For types driven/drawn at speeds not in excess
examiners within DVSA and Authorised goods vehicles. of 20mph and Category T tractors not driven at
Constables. However, it is made available more more than 40kph the following IMs might not
widely so that vehicle owners, operators and Part 3 is for motorcycles including apply, or might apply in part only: IMs 5, 7, 8,
drivers can become more aware of DVSA’s combinations. 12, 14, 17, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 48, 62 to 67
standards. inclusive and 71 to 73 inclusive.
Note: An agricultural motor vehicle, trailer or
Its purpose is: trailed appliance is one that is constructed or As a general rule when inspecting these slower
adapted for use off roads for the purpose of vehicles and using the IMs mentioned above,
 to provide guidance on the action to take agriculture, horticulture or forestry and which is examiners should only be concerned with
when roadworthiness defects are found primarily used for one or more of those items that they find fitted. That is, a vehicle
during vehicle inspections; purposes, but does not include a “dual-purpose” should not be considered defective if a
vehicle as defined in the Road Vehicles particular item was not fitted as original
 to promote consistency among examiners
(Construction and Use) Regulations. equipment.

2 The guide is not a legal document and must not They fall into two distinct groups: those driven/ 4 The page layout for all three parts is the same
be treated as an interpretation of the relevant drawn at speeds not exceeding 20mph and and consists of four columns.
legislation, which only the courts can provide. those driven/drawn at speeds in excess of
20mph. Column 1: describes the defect;
Layout of the Guide
When using Part 1 of this document in Column 2: describes the severity of the defect;
3 This publication is divided into three parts connection with the inspection of an agricultural
covering the main groups of road vehicles. motor vehicle, trailer or trailed appliance the Column 3: gives guidance on the action to be
following exceptions must be noted. taken;
Part 1 is intended for heavy goods and public
service vehicles and may also be used for Column 4: gives guidance notes on
For all types of agricultural vehicle IM
agricultural motor vehicles, trailers and trailed references 3, 21, 24 and 33 will not apply. standards and legal requirements.
appliances (see note below).
A vertical black line alongside any text
indicates a change from the previous version.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

Policy on the Issue of Prohibitions

Note 1: DVSA is required by law to send a copy  the severity and number of
of each prohibition to the relevant Traffic defects observed,
5 A Prohibition Notice (PG9) is a ban on the use
of a vehicle on a public road. A prohibition will Commissioner.
 their significance in road safety and
normally be issued where a vehicle is found by Note 2: A Commissioner can curtail, revoke or
environmental terms,
an examiner to be, or likely to become, unfit for suspend licences on the basis of prohibitions,
use or where driving of the vehicle would convictions or failure to comply with the  any risk presented by continued use of the
involve a risk of injury to any person. conditions of holding a licence, one of which is vehicle,
the requirement to have arrangements for
6 When a prohibition is in force it is an offence to ensuring adequate maintenance. while taking into account the operational and
drive or tow or permit to be used, a vehicle on financial implications for the operator.
the road unless an exemption notice has been 8. A prohibition might take effect immediately or
issued or when certain circumstances as listed could be delayed for up to ten days. Immediate Period of Delay
on the reverse of the prohibition notice apply. prohibitions are issued where, in the opinion of an Examiners will normally select one of the following
examiner, the defects on the vehicle are such periods of delay, which have been grouped together
7 In addition to preventing the further use of that further driving of it would involve a risk of into three bands according to the number and
seriously defective vehicles on the road, injury to any person. severity of the defects listed on the prohibition notice
prohibition notices are used: (PG9):
 to notify the operator or owner of the Where, in the examiner’s opinion, no such risk
defect (s) that caused the prohibition, so exists, the prohibition will come into force at such Band Period of delay Severity of defects
that they can be put right before the time, not later than 10 days from the date of the listed on the PG9
removal of the prohibition; inspection (delayed prohibition) as seems
appropriate to the examiner, having regard to all the
 in the case of vehicles subject to operator A Maximum 10 Less than 5 defects in
circumstances, and will afterwards continue in force days non critical areas
licensing, to inform the traffic
until it is removed.
commissioner that prohibitable defects
A delayed prohibition allows continued use of the
have been found; B 4-7 days 1 defect in a safety critical
vehicle until the prohibition comes into force. The
 to enable DVSA to target additional area or 5 or more defects
period of delay on prohibitions will reflect
enforcement checks on operators whose in non critical areas
record suggests that maintenance is C Up to 3 days More than 1 defect in a
inadequate. safety critical area

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

Policy on the Issue of Prohibitions (Cont.)

Delayed Defect Concession - Important notes-

For roadside inspection, only under the That the vehicle is when encountered on This concession does not apply if any other
following circumstances should a delayed direct route to a repair facility for delayed prohibition defect is detected on the
prohibition be deviated (downgraded) to an defect/s to be repaired. encounter other than what is described
inspection notice. above.
and
Where there is evidence that: Under these circumstances, all defects
There is evidence that the journey is should be actioned in accordance with this
The delayed defect/s occurred on the current directly to a place where the vehicle is to
day's journey (24-hour period). manual.
undergo repair for the delayed defect/s.
(e.g. defect report with evidence the Its is the responsibility of the driver to provide
and vehicle is directly on-route to the repair sufficient evidence at the time of the
The vehicle was clear of defects at the facility). inspection for this concession to apply.
beginning of the current journey (24-hour
period), supported by a nil driver defect report.

and This applies to both GB and non-GB

encounters.
An in-service driver defect report, with
recorded assessment (date and time) stating
that the vehicle is safe to drive for the
remaining current day's journey.

or

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

Definition of Safety Critical These are defects that the operator and / or driver Unable to determine whether a defect is
Safety Critical defects or systems are those that should have been aware of through any or all of attributable to poor maintenance:
could affect the control or directional stability of the following:
the vehicle. Throughout this guide, If it is not possible to determine whether or not
recommendations are indicated by a letter in the  Long standing defect that should have been the operator, driver or the maintenance
action column, as follows detected and repaired at the last safety check.
arrangements are culpable, then the defect is
“I” denotes an immediate prohibition  The defect or issue should have been detected
not endorsed.

“D” denotes a delayed prohibition. at the first use/daily walk round check.
10. Where examiners find on a vehicle
"IN" denotes an inspection notice  Performance, handling and/or warning systems roadworthiness defects not serious enough to
would have made the defect obvious to the warrant prohibition, they will advise the user/
Advisory defects not considered serious enough to driver. owner using a Vehicle Inspection Notice. This
prohibit the vehicle. They are reported on a notice is advisory only and does not in itself
Vehicle Inspection Notice explained in the  Poor workmanship should have been apparent prevent further use of the vehicle.
following paragraph. These are classed as ‘minor’ to repairer.
9. Notices Endorsed - Against each defect it is Even if not prohibitable, some of the defects
 The nature of the defect(s) observed at annual
necessary to categorise its significance in may mean that the vehicle is un-roadworthy
test were such that they should have been
roadworthiness compliance and maintenance. and does not comply with the law. Continued
found before the vehicle was presented for test.
use of a vehicle issued with either a Delayed
 ‘S’ for significant failure of roadworthiness Prohibition or a Vehicle Inspection Notice listing
 The number and nature of defects present on
compliance, this notice indicates a significant failure in advisory defect(s) risks prosecution under the
maintenance. Road Vehicles (Construction and Use)
 ‘-‘ (Blank) for defects which may or may not be Regulations or Road Vehicles Lighting
attributable to poor maintenance Defects(s) NOT considered to be maintenance Regulations and so it will be in the user’s
related – ‘X’ interest to repair defects as soon as practicable
 ‘X’ where the defect is no reflection on the
after they are noticed.
maintenance system Appropriate for defects of an entirely random
failure nature such as a lighting bulb failure or a Note: A Technical Roadside Inspection
Roadworthiness prohibitions both immediate and new fracture in a road spring leaf, having arisen Report (PG35EC) will be issued following a
delayed, will be endorsed ‘S’ if, in the Examiner’s through a random failure of a component, and HGV/ PSV spot check examination in place of a
opinion, any of the defects which led to the prohibition where it is also apparent that it would not have Vehicle Inspection Notice used for other
was an indicator that there is significant failure of been noticed by the driver. vehicles. This will include any advisory defects.
roadworthiness compliance. .

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

Vehicles Undergoing Repair Vehicles Claimed to be Out of Use “COLLISION DAMAGE” and “DEFECTS NOT
DUE TO COLLISION “.
11 As a general rule, vehicles undergoing repair, 13 Vehicles claimed to be withdrawn from use
and those partially dismantled and awaiting should be treated as in the previous two Standards for Prohibition Issue
spare parts should not be examined. However, paragraphs in that they should generally not be
where it is reasonable to assume the extent of examined or prohibited. Where there is doubt 15 This guide also explains the standards that
about an operator’s claim, examiners should guide examiners on the issue of prohibition
the repair is limited or is of a token nature only
seek firm evidence of non-use, for example
and the vehicle’s general appearance notices to unroadworthy vehicles following
evidence of de-licensing. However, such
suggests that it was last used on the road in a evidence does not preclude an examination if it inspections at any location.
seriously defective condition, an examination appears that the vehicle has been recently used,
may be carried out of the items not receiving or it is likely to be used on the road When making decisions on roadworthiness,
attention. A prohibition, if issued, should be in a seriously defective condition. In these examiners will take into account such factors
endorsed circumstances a prohibition, if issued, should as prevailing weather, vehicle use and
“UNDER REPAIR”. be endorsed with a comment to indicate that configuration, and other information issued
the vehicle was claimed to have been by DVSA, such as statutory test inspection
Vehicles Awaiting Repair or Scrapping withdrawn from service. manuals, amplification notes and technical
bulletins.
12 Vehicles parked on operators’ premises and Vehicles Damaged in Collisions
claimed to have been withdrawn from use 16 When dealing with vehicles that have been
pending repair or scrapping can be examined 14 Vehicles examined following collisions should Type Approved, approved to a national
if it appears that the vehicle has recently been generally not be prohibited if all defects arose scheme or certified to the Certificate of Initial
used on the road in a seriously defective state. from the collision unless it is believed that Fitness requirements (PSVs only), examiners
As with vehicles undergoing repair, the fact further use of the vehicle in a defective state is need to be careful not to require higher
that the vehicle was off the road and claimed intended. If there are prohibitable defects standards of construction, or the fitment of
to be withdrawn from service should be noted which pre-existed the collision a prohibition items, than were required/ fitted when the
on a prohibition, if issued, by endorsing it will be issued and the collision damage vehicle was manufactured and ‘approved’.
“AWAITING DISPOSAL” or included on the notice. It must be made clear
“AWAITING REPAIR”. which items were caused by the collision and
which were present before. To achieve this,
segregate the defects with the headings,

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

17 Examiners will record decisions on the 18 The term “insecure” is used many times Certain components, such as wheel
appropriate prohibition document concisely throughout this guide to describe a defective studs/nuts, body mountings etc. have
and clearly. Descriptions such as “worn”, condition. This term should be taken by specific criteria detailed in the guide.
“loose”, “noisy”, “broken”, “fractured”, examiners to mean either:
“inefficient”, corroded”, are not sufficient on  a component on the vehicle has relative
their own. Where possible, sufficient detail movement (looseness) at its fixings where
should be recorded about defective there should be none, or Continued overleaf...
components to enable subsequent  A component has relative movement
identification. Tyre sizes and serial numbers (looseness) to an associated component
should be recorded for each defective tyre where there should be none, or
listed on the prohibition.  a safety critical component is not safely or
completely attached at its fixing or to an
associated component.

Examples

Inadequate wording Suggested wording

Free play front wheel bearing Excessive free play nearside front wheel bearing

Handbrake mechanism seized Handbrake mechanism seized and handbrake ineffective

Front brake pipe chafed Offside front brake flexible hose chafed almost through

Leakage of brake fluid O/S rear Severe leakage of brake fluid from O/S rear brake cylinder
when applied

Exhaust smoking Exhaust emitting excessive black smoke

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

19 The nature of each defect listed on the Supporting Evidence Requirements Variation Notices (PG9A)
prohibition must be such that, had it been Examiners must be able to justify the actions they
the sole defect detected, prohibition take in respect of defects found, therefore in all 23 Variation Notices are used to alter certain
action would still be justified. The number of circumstances they must record and retain all details of an existing prohibition. This will
available evidence, this can take the form of; normally be necessary following a
defects found is not a criterion for the issue of
a prohibition. subsequent inspection of the vehicle that
reveals additional defects or where some
 Contemporaneous notes in the pocket book
20 Notwithstanding the guidance above,  Additional text on prohibition notices but not all of the defects listed on the
 Photographic evidence prohibition have been rectified.
prohibition notices are allowed to be issued
for any failure to comply with the Road  Corroboration from another examiner
(required in Scotland) In addition to altering the list of defects,
Vehicles (Construction and Use) Variation Notices can alter the time and
 Retention of physical evidence
Regulations or the Road Vehicles Lighting
date of an existing prohibition by making
Regulations, where the Examiner is
This evidence is important to assist in any a delayed prohibition ‘Immediate’ or vice
satisfied that the vehicle is, or is likely to subsequent appeal, complaints or legal process. versa.
become, unfit for service.
22 Unsafe Modification Exemptions (PG9B)
Modifications to vehicles must be
21 The scope of any inspection of the vehicle assessed on their merits, taking account 24 Exemption Notices are issued to permit
might be limited by the circumstances at the of the nature of the modification and prohibited vehicles to proceed to a place of
inspection site, by the vehicle’s design or whether the component is safety critical. repair under controlled conditions once the
construction and by the absence of particular The main criteria to be used are: prohibition has come into force. The
inspection facilities.
conditions of movement will be detailed on
 whether the modification adversely the Exemption Notice. Examiners will
For this reason, there might be other defects
affects the roadworthiness of the normally issue an Exemption Notice only if
that cannot be seen at the time of the
vehicle, or in their opinion the vehicle can be moved
inspection and are therefore not listed on the
 is likely to cause injury (such as to such a place without risk to public
prohibition or vehicle inspection notice. In some
modification to the body), or safety.
cases, checks will be made on specific areas of
 has a disproportionately adverse effect
the vehicle only, eg exhaust emissions
on the environment.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

Removal of Prohibitions 28 In the case of heavy goods vehicles and

 whether he/she would have cleared the
public service vehicles, the law imposes the
25 Before a prohibited vehicle can be used again prohibition “on site”, without a further more
responsibility on the examiner considering
on a public road the Prohibition Notice must extensive examination, had the defects been
removing a roadworthiness prohibition, of
be removed by the issue of a ‘Removal of rectified then;
satisfying himself that the vehicle is “fit for
Prohibition’ Notice (PG10). An examiner is service”.  the extent of the inspection already
allowed to remove a roadworthiness
prohibition when satisfied that the vehicle is “fit In law, examiners have absolute discretion conducted;
for service”. over the scope of examination, which in
 the nature of the defects described on
their opinion is necessary for them to be
Accordingly, where a furthermore extensive the PG9.
satisfied that the vehicle is “fit for service”.
inspection is required and the available
inspection facilities are inadequate for that 29 DVSA provides general guidance only on how In addition to these the clearing Examiner will
purpose, an examiner may direct the vehicle examiners will satisfy themselves that a need to take the following factors into account:
to a testing station for an inspection prior to vehicle is “fit for service”.
removing the prohibition.  any comments made by the examiner or
The examiner to whom a vehicle is presented
for prohibition clearance will need to take into Authorised Constable;
26 Examiners are advised that “fit for service”
must be taken as meaning that, if tested, the account any recommendation regarding the  the time elapsed and mileage covered
vehicle would comply with all the relevant level of clearance inspection recorded on the since the issue of the prohibition;
annual test standards. The discovery of Prohibition Notice by the issuing examiner.
defects that would result in an annual test  the operator’s maintenance history;
failure could be given as a reason for refusing He/ she will bear in mind that the issuing
to remove a prohibition. examiner should have already taken into  the date of the last annual inspection.
account the following factors in framing their
27 Vehicles subject to the MOT test will normally recommendation: 30 More detailed information on the procedures to
be considered “fit for service” when they have be followed in order to have roadworthiness
passed the test and have been issued with a prohibitions removed is provided on the
pass certificate (VT20/VT20W) dated after reverse side of the Prohibition Notice.
the date of the prohibition notice issue.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

Complaints and Appeals

31 The Law does not provide for a statutory If you disagree with the examiner's Your complaint must be received within 14
appeal against the issue of a prohibition. assessment, a further examination may days, it will only be accepted after this time in
However, DVSA does have a formal be necessary; you will need to submit exceptional circumstances. Please forward
complaints procedure. Police issued your complaint as soon as possible your complaint to; DVSA, The Ellipse, Padley
prohibitions are outside the scope of this Road, Swansea, SA1 8AN or email
without making any repairs or
procedure. [email protected] or telephone
adjustments, which affect the defect/s 0300 123 9000 (Monday to Friday 07:30 -
included in the complaint. 18:00)
Operators wishing to use this procedure
will find information on the reverse of
the Prohibition Notice handed to the DVSA may not need to reinspect the
32 If you are dissatisfied with the treatment
driver by the issuing examiner at the vehicle. If they do, they’ll try to arrange
the re-inspection somewhere convenient of your complaint, you may contact DVSA
time the prohibition is issued.
for you. When they deal with your Corporate Reputation, The Axis Building, 112
If owners, operators or drivers feel they complaint, they’ll tell you if you need to Upper Parliament Street, Nottingham NG1
have been unfairly or harshly treated, 6LP or email
send evidence. The attached link
they should speak with the relevant [email protected]
contains further guidance: roadside-
manager at the local DVSA office. vehicle-checks-for-commercial-drivers/
If you are still dissatisfied with the treatment of
roadside-prohibitions your complaint, you may write to; DVSA Head
On these occasions, operators can use
of Corporate Reputation, The Axis Building,
this guide to judge whether the action If you remain unhappy after speaking 112 Upper Parliament Street, Nottingham
taken was consistent with DVSA’s with the local DVSA office, you should NG1 6LP or email
published guidance. Most issues can be
follow our complaints procedure. Each [email protected] who may
dealt with easily at the local DVSA
complaint will be logged, acknowledged refer your grievance to the independent
office, since the vehicle and prohibition
and a formal reply provided. adjudicator.
notice will normally be readily available.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Introduction

Complaints and Appeals - continued.

33 Regulations provide for appeals to be made

against the refusal of an examiner (or
Authorised Constable) to remove a
Prohibition Notice.

The owner or operator of the vehicle may

appeal (in writing) within 14 days to Driver
and Vehicle Standards Agency, Berkeley
House, Croydon Street, Bristol BS5 0DA
the envelope should be marked "appeal"

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 Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency

Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods

and Agricultural Vehicles

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IM = Inspection manual for HGV and PSV DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Contents
 = For agricultural vehicles see paragraph 3 of the introduction
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
IM No Page IM No Page

1 Registration plate and VIN details  14 30 Steering control 83

3 Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems  15 33 Speed limiters  85
5 Exhaust emissions  18 34 Pressure/vacuum warning and build up 88
6 Road wheels and hubs 20 36 Hand lever operating mechanical brakes 90
7 Size and type of tyres  22 37 Service brake pedal 92
8 Condition of tyres 24 38 Service brake operation 93
9 Side guards, rear under run devices and bumper bars 28 39 Hand operated brake control valve 95
10 Spare wheel and carrier 31 41 Condition of chassis 96
11 Vehicle to trailer couplings 32 42 Electrical wiring and equipment 97
12 Trailer parking and emergency brakes & air line connections 36 43 Engine and transmission 99
13 Trailer landing legs 39 44 Oil and waste leaks 100
14 Spray suppression, wing and wheel arches 40 45 Fuel tanks and systems 101
15 Cab security 42 46 Exhaust systems and nuisance 103
16 Doors and PSV passenger doors 43 48 Suspension 104
17 Driver’s accommodation and steps 47 53 Axles, stub axles and wheel bearings 112
18 Driver’s seat 48 54 Steering mechanism 113
19 Security of body 49 57 Transmission 119
20 Condition of body 56 58 Additional braking devices (including retarders) 121
21 Interior of body  59 59 Brake systems and components 123
22 Drivers mirrors  67 62 Rear markings and reflectors  134
23 Glass and view of the road  69 63 Lamps  136
24 Accessibility features  72 66 Direction indicators and hazard warning lamps  144
25 Windscreen wipers and washers  78 67 Aim of headlamps  147
26 Speedometer/Tachograph  79 71 Service brake performance  148
27 Audible warning (horn)  80 72 Secondary brake performance  150
28 Driving controls 81 73 Parking brake performance  152

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 1
Registration Plate and Vehicle Identification Number
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Registration Plates and VIN Details 1 Unregistered vehicles do not need to be

fitted with registration plates. For guidance
A motor vehicle registration plate missing Missing where legally required. D on trailers refer to the enforcement sanctions
(see notes 1, 4 and 5). policy.

2 Where the registration plates do not agree

A motor vehicle registration plate broken/ Inscription missing, illegible or likely to be D with each other or the DVLA record, the VIN
incomplete/dirty/ deteriorated/faded/obscured or misread. should be used to identify the vehicle on the
with any feature that has the effect of changing the prohibition notice.
appearance or legibility of any of the characters, so
that the true identity of the vehicle is less easily 3 A registration plate should be easily legible
established (see notes 3 and 4). to a person standing approximately 20m
from the front/rear of the vehicle.

Motor vehicle registration plate incorrect Registration mark does not relate to the D Prohibition action should only be taken in
vehicle. 4
(see note 2 and 4a). respect of a solo vehicle front and rear
registration plates or the front registration
plate of a towing vehicle that is in
Likely to become detached. I combination with a trailer.
Any registration plate insecure.
4a Where the towing vehicle is an agricultural
Vehicle Identification/chassis/serial number missing. Missing or not found D machine, a plate fixed on the trailer may,
instead of displaying the registration mark of
the towing vehicle, display the mark of any
Vehicle Identification/chassis/serial number Incomplete, illegible or obviously D other agricultural machine kept by the
incomplete, illegible or does not match plating falsified. keeper of the towing vehicle.
certificate.
Does not match plating certificate. D A registration plate fitted behind a
5
windscreen is not acceptable and is
considered to be missing.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 3
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Seat belts

Any dangerous defect/damage/feature of a seat Likely to inflict injury. I NOTE: THIS IM ITEM DOES NOT APPLY TO
belt restraint system. AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES

Any seat belt, buckle or retractor cut/signs of Seat belt in use. I 1 The legal requirements for fitment of
overstretching/vandalised/damaged/inoperative/ seatbelts are too complex to be repeated
defective/insecure or modified and not capable of Seat belt not in use. D in this guide. Refer to the relevant
performing its intended purpose or likely to fail Inspection Manual. As general guidance
when required (see notes 11 and 12). Notes 2 and 3 below have been included.

Seat belt pre-tensioner or load limiter obviously - 2 Goods vehicles first used on or after 1
D
missing or not suitable with the vehicle. October 2001 and that exceed 3500kg
design gross weight are required to be
Any obligatory seat belt missing Seat in use. fitted with seat belts to the drivers’ and
I
(see notes 2, 3 and 5) front passenger seats.
Seat not in use. D
3 Seat belts are required to be fitted to:
Seat belt of an incorrect type. - D
 Driver’s and specified front
passenger seat on minibuses -
Seat belt anchorage or seat mounting point Anchorage likely to detach. I
Seat belt anchorage or seat mounting badly  First used before 1 October 1988
deteriorated or insecure Excessively corroded, deteriorated or  With not more than 12
(see notes 5, 6 and 7). fractured. D passenger seats

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 3
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

 All front seat on minibuses first used -

Supplementary Restraint Systems  On or after 1 October 1988
An SRS MIL illuminated. SRS MIL indicates any kind of failure of D  With up to and including 16 passenger
the system. seats
 Not exceeding 3500kg design gross
Air bag obviously missing, inoperative or not Obviously missing, inoperative or not D weight
suitable. suitable.
 Forward facing exposed seats on coaches
and minibuses first used -
 On or after 1 October 1988
 All seats in buses, coaches and minibuses
first used from 1 October 2001 which are
not authorised to carry standing
passengers
4 In this item the term “seat belt” includes
the belt, its mountings and seat to which it
is fitted.
5 “Obligatory belt/s” in this item means those
belts which are required to be fitted by
virtue of the vehicle’s construction. The
term “non obligatory belt/s” means any
additional belts fitted and includes those
required by virtue of the vehicle’s use.

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 3
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles

6 As a guide, defective includes excessive corrosion, serious deterioration or fracture in load bearing areas within 300mm of anchorage.

7 When taking prohibition action in respect of vandalism, if examiners are able to establish that the damage is recent and no reflection on the operator’s
maintenance system' they should endorse the defect ‘Not maintenance related’.

8 Prohibition action will not be appropriate where there are insufficient belts on forward facing seats for the number of children being carried on an
organised trip. Prosecution action will be taken in this situation.

9 Large buses, except coaches, are not required to be fitted with belts either by virtue of their construction or use. Coaches can be converted into buses
by limiting their powered speed to less than 97km/h (60mph). However, the conversion must not be readily reversible i.e. the limiter system must be
sealed to prevent tampering.

10 A seat belt is a minimum of a lap belt.

11 Advice should be given when a seat belt buckle has been modified to prevent it from being opened by a vulnerable person, if the seat belt requires
additional tools/keys to enable it to be opened.

12 As a guide, cuts or damage on either edge of the webbing in excess of 2mm or in excess of 4mm away from the webbing edges, are likely to
significantly reduce the webbing strength.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 5
Exhaust Emissions
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Diesel Smoke Emission

Exhaust emitting excessive Sufficient to obscure vision or likely to I 1. Turbocharged engines might emit smoke
smoke (see notes 1, 2, 3 and 4). cause danger to other road users. on free acceleration. This is not
necessarily a defect.
Smoke levels exceed annual test D
2. This inspection also applies to vehicle
standard.
auxiliary engines that are in operation
when the vehicle is seen.
Emitting a continuous haze of any IN
colour. 3. The annual test standard applies only to
vehicles subject to statutory annual test.
4. Hybrid Electrical vehicles (HEV’s) do not
require a metered smoke / emissions
Manufacturer’s exhaust emission Missing or defaced IN
check. Vehicles using a supplementary
data plate
engine may need to be checked for
excessive smoke only.
5. Prohibition action must be supported by
Spark Ignition Engine Emissions positive evidence that the emission system
has been affected.
Exhaust emitting excessive levels of pollutants Sufficient to obscure vision or likely to I 6. Prohibition action should only be taken
(see notes 2, 3 and 4). cause danger to other road users. where a fault is clearly identified. Where it
is not clear the MIL is indicating a fault with
Exceed the annual test standard. D the system, inspection notice action should
be taken. The reagent tank must be empty
to justify prohibition action.
Within annual test standard but IN 7. Refer to manufacturers requirements for
emitting a continuous haze.
correct MIL sequence.

Continued overleaf...

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 18

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 5
Exhaust Emissions
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
8. The inspection of emissions MIL or
Emission Control Equipment
engine MIL applies to diesel fuelled
Absent, modified, obviously defective or vehicles for HGV and petrol or diesel
Emissions Control equipment fitted by the D
manufacturer. component missing/leaking such that it fuelled vehicles for PSV first used from
would affect emission measurement 01 July 2008.
(see note 5). 9. The emissions MIL is only part of the
inspection where the vehicle is not fitted
Engine or Emissions malfunction indicator lamp Indicating a fault or insufficient reagent D with a commonly recognised engine MIL,
illuminated or not following correct sequence (see (see note 6). the engine MIL is only part of the
note 7, 8, 9 and 10). Advise early rectification (see note 5). IN inspection for the purpose of the emission
control system. The engine and emissions
MIL only applies to petrol and diesel fuelled
vehicles.
10. The inspection of the engine or emissions
MIL does not apply to duel fuelled vehicles.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 19

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 6
Road Wheels and Hubs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Road Wheels and Hubs

Any wheel(s) missing. - I 1 In the case of wheels with detachable
spring retaining rings fitted to wheel rims of
Any wheel fractured or with a welding defect. - I the semi-drop centre type (these are
Wheel hub or wheel flange worn, damaged or Failure or detachment imminent. I identified by the ends of the ring, which are
with loose fixings that affect the security of shaped so as to interlock), abutting ends
the wheel(s) (see note 5). A diametric aggregated clearance of D are permissible provided the retainer is
more than 3mm between the spigot and adequately and safety located in the wheel
the locating surface of the wheel. rim.
Immediate failure or detachment D
unlikely. 2 A tyre retaining ring butting causing the
flange to lift more than 1.5mm is to be
Wheel stud holes elongated/damaged. If visible with wheel nuts in place or I regarded as excessively displaced.
detachment likely.
3 Some agricultural wheels have extra
Detachment unlikely any stud or hole D fixings for the sole purpose of attaching
severely worn/elongated. additional wheels. These are not part of
More than one wheel nut/stud missing, this inspection while additional wheels are
Wheel nut, washer or stud missing/loose/fractured, I not fitted.
loose or obviously not clamping or
not clamping or fully locating in taper. locating in the road wheel taper (see
note 3). 4 For this defect the wording "twin wheel
fitment" also includes objects trapped
More than one spigot wheel nut washer I between the tyres.
fractured.
Any one stud or nut missing or loose 5 A 'wheel flange' is a component that is
D positioned between the road wheel and
(see note 3).
the hub which contains the wheel studs.
Any one spigot wheel nut washer D
fractured.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 6
Road Wheels and Hubs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Foreign object trapped between twin wheel fitment Likely to detach and cause damage or I
(see note 4) injury.
Advise early rectification. IN

Tyre retaining ring abutting or fractured or not Retaining ring is excessively displaced I
properly fitted. from its seating and total displacement
is imminent (see notes 1 and 2).
Not properly fitted. D

Wheel seriously distorted or worn. Secure fixing to hub affected or secure I

fixing of tyre affected.
Secure fixing to the hub or secure fixing D
of road tyre not immediately affected.

Half shaft bolts, nuts or studs loose/missing. Loss of drive or detachment likely. I

Incompatible wheel fitted. Fouling other components where failure I

of the wheel/affected component is likely
or affecting road safety.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 21

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 7
Size and Type of Tyres
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Tyres

The nominal size, ply rating, load index, speed If tyre obviously overloaded I See next page for notes.
rating of any is below that appropriate for the (see notes 2a & 2b).
vehicle.
No obvious overload IN
(see notes 1 and 2).

Tyres of different types/nominal sizes/aspect ratio Tyre of different type (i.e. Cross ply or I
fitted on an axle. radial) fitted.

One tyre is of a different nominal size or D

aspect ratio from those on the same axle
(see note 2).

A tyre’s application does not comply with its (See note 6) IN

‘condition of use’ marking.

Radial ply tyres fitted to the front axle and cross ply (See note 3) I
or bias belted to the rear axle, or bias belted to the
front axle and cross ply to the rear axle.

Tyres of different types fitted on steerable axles. (See note 4) I

Tyres of different types fitted on driven, non- (See note 5) I

steerable axles.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 22

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 7
Size and Type of Tyres
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Notes

PNEUMATIC TYRES ARE NOT A LEGAL REQUIREMENT ON AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES NOT DRIVEN/DRAWN AT MORE THAN 20MPH

1 It is appreciated that during roadside inspection examiners might not have access to tyre tables, and in some instances the size or ply rating might not
be readily available.

2 It cannot be assumed that, because either tyre of a twin wheel is not in contact with the ground when the vehicle is stationary on a level surface, there is
a difference in nominal size.

2a During vehicle examinations prohibition action should only be taken if the tyre load index is below that appropriate for the vehicle and if the tyre is
obviously over loaded.

2b The obvious overload could be established by weighbridge figures or if the tyre is showing signs of deterioration due to the overload for example,
excessive overheating or damaged structure.

3 This does not apply to vehicles with twin or extra wide tyres on the rear axle, or to tyres manufactured for (and fitted to) engineering plant. It also does
not apply to vehicles with a maximum speed not exceeding 30 mph.

4 Applies only for 2 or more steerable axles.

5 Applies only for 2 or more driven non steerable axles.

6 E.g. "FRT" which indicate that the tyre is not suitable for use on a driven or front steered axle, "Trailer use only", "Directional tyres" and asymmetrical
tyres.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 8
Condition of Tyres
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Tyres NOTE: THIS IM ITEM DOES NOT APPLY TO:

Tyre walls in contact. Caused by under inflation or incorrect IN • An agricultural motor vehicle, not being a
wheel fitting (see note 1). category T tractor, that is not driven at
more than 20mph;
• An agricultural trailer;
Tyre bulging or tread lifting. Caused by separation or partial failure of I • An agricultural trailed appliance;
its structure (see note 2). • A category T tractor that is not driven at
more than 40kph.

Tyre has a break in the fabric or deep cut or Any cord exposed (see note 4). I 1 Some tyres, e.g. Radials, with flexible side
damage to the side wall or tread area. walls might ‘kiss’ under load/ In these cases,
wall contact is not a reason for rejection.
Deep cut or damage more than 25mm or D
10% of section width, whichever is the 2 Bulging includes any lifting of the tread rubber
greater, and cords/ply can be felt, but not and must not be confused with undulations
seen by the use of a probe (see note 3). which might be present due to manufacturing
imperfections. A bulge in the sidewall area
Minor cut or damage (see note 3). IN may be manufacturer’s repair and be up to
5mm proud of the original sidewall. A repair
will feel solid and should not deflect as would
Likely to affect steering or overload the I a bulge associated with casing separation.
Tyre seriously under inflated. other tyre on a twin fitment.
(See notes 1, 9, 10 and 11) 3 Cuts which are deep enough to reach the
In the case of a single tyre fitment on a I
cords or ply but are less than 25mm or 10% of
non steered axle.
the section width, whichever is the greater,
and have not damaged or exposed the cords
Unlikely to affect steering or overload IN
other tyres. or ply do not breach the legal requirements for
tyres.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 8
Condition of Tyres
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Single fitment or steered axle tyre Pressure 50% or less of recommended I 4 ‘Exposed’ for this purpose means the cord is
seriously under-inflated, where pressure is pressure. visible as seen by the naked eye or can be
measured. (See notes 1, 9, 10 and 11) made visible by the use of a probe.
Pressure 50% or less of other tyre on I
same axle. 5 Tie-bars are short projections formed into the
base of the tread pattern grooves to brace or
stiffen the adjacent ribs or blocks in the initial
Temporary tyre repair (See Note 12) Tyre with external plug (string Repair) IN full depth state of the tread pattern. In the
or tyre sealant applied later stages of tread wear the tie-bars might
interrupt the continuity of the tread pattern
Tyre missing when known to be standard fitment Which is likely to cause danger I
grooves. This is acceptable.
(See note 13)
Tyre manufacture date code on vehicle front In excess of 10 years of age I Original tread pattern’ means-
6
steered axle/any minibus axle with single wheel
fitment (See notes 8a - 8g) In the case of a re-treaded tyre, the tread
a
Tyre manufacture date code, not front steered In excess of 10 years of age IN pattern immediately after the tyre was re-
axle (or any axle on a minibus single wheel treaded.
fitment) See Notes 8a - 8g
Tyre manufacture date code on vehicle front steered Not legible or not displayed, with clear I b In the case of a wholly re-cut tyre, the
axle/any minibus axle with single wheel fitment (See evidence of tyre deterioration manufacturers re-cut tread pattern.
notes 8a - 8g) Not legible or not displayed, with no D
clear evidence of tyre deterioration c In the case of a partially re-cut tyre, on the
part that has been re-cut, the manufacturers
re-cut tread pattern, and on the other part,
Tyre manufacture date code, not front steered Not legible or not displayed IN
the tread pattern of the tyre when the tyre
axle (or any axle on a minibus single wheel
was new.
fitment) See notes 8a - 8g)

d In the case of any other tyre, the tread

Tyre manufacture date code not visible On twin wheel fitment IN pattern of the tyre when the tyre was new.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 8
Condition of Tyres
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Tyre tread worn beyond legal limit. Depth of tread on any tyre is not at least I Note: grooves which wear out before the main
1mm throughout a continuous circumfer- grooves and other minor features such as sipes,
ential band for at least three quarters of small lateral extensions to the circumferential
the tread width (excluding tie-bars See grooves and minor lateral grooving on the
note 5). shoulders are to be disregarded when
considering whether the ‘original tread pattern’
Tyre tread depth worn advise early recti- IN is visible.
fication. The base of any groove of the
original tread pattern is not clearly visible 7 It is permissible for re-grooved tyres to be
(see note 6). fitted to;
Tyre fouling. Tyre damaged and/or likely to fail. I • Motor vehicles of unladen weight
exceeding 3050kgs, or between 2540kgs
Rubbing against other components D and 3050kgs if fitted to wheel rims
(name component—tyre not likely to fail exceeding 405mm in diameter and;
or steering not impaired). • Trailers of unladen weight exceeding
1020kgs (2290kgs total weight for fixed
Rubbing against other components IN plant carriers).
(flexible anti spray device).
8 a The check for the display of tyre age code
Re-grooved tyres not in accordance with Fitted to vehicle on which re-grooved D markings applies to all motorised vehicles
requirements. tyres are not permitted (see note 7). and trailers except for category T tractors,
or goods vehicles below 3501kg DGVW

b The requirements for tyre age and tyre

Spare tyre age markings will not apply to motor
vehicles and trailers with a first use date
Spare tyre bulging/fabric cut/fabric exposed/tread - IN or manufacture date of 40 years and over
worn beyond legal limit. and used for non-commercial purposes
Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 8
Condition of Tyres
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Notes

8c For the purpose of aged tyres, the front steered axle will be deemed forward of the chassis midpoint and directly controlled by the steering system
d The tyre date code is only required to be marked on one side wall, therefore it may not be possible to see the age markings of some twin wheel
fitments, this is acceptable
e All tyres must be marked with a date code, on recapped tyres the retread date must be used
f For the purpose of the term "not legible", means the date code has been identified, but cannot be read on the tyre. For the purpose of the term " not
displayed", means the date code cannot be identified on the tyre.
g Clear evidence of tyre deterioration maybe cracking, splitting or perishing etc
9 Examiners have the option to take a tyre pressure measurement on steered and single wheel fitments where visual checks indicate serious under-
inflation of a pneumatic tyre.
10 The recommended tyre pressures should be used as a reference where possible.
11 Where no recommended tyre pressure value is available or if there is doubt over marked tyre pressures on the vehicle, proceed to check the
pressure across the same axle to make a comparison check.
12 All tyre repairs should follow the recommendations in BS AU 159g, string repairs are not considered as permanent, tyre filler or putty can only be
used for rubber repairs only.
13 This does not include spare tyre/wheel fitments.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 27

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 9
Sideguards, Rear under-run Devices & Bumper Bars
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Bumpers. Sideguards and Under-run Devices Application and exemptions

(See Notes)
Sideguards - application
Bumper bar, sideguard or under-run device Detachment likely either partially or I
completely or having projections or Motor vehicles first used from 1 April 1984 with a
insecure, damaged or missing.
jagged edges likely to cause injury. design gross weight exceeding 3,500kgs and
where the distance between the centres of any
two consecutive axles exceeds 3 metres.
Missing where required. D
Trailers manufactured from 1 May 1983 with an
Advise early rectification. IN unladen weight exceeding 1020kgs and where
the distance between the centres of any two
consecutive axles exceeds 3 metres; or in the
case of a semi-trailer, where the distance
between the centre of the kingpin position and
the centre of the foremost axle exceeds 4.5
metres.
Semi-trailers manufactured before 1 May 1983
which have a design weight exceeding
26,000kgs and which form part of an articulated
vehicle with a design gross train weight
exceeding 32,520kgs and where the distance
between the centre of the kingpin position and
the centre of the foremost axle exceeds 4.5
metres. Where more than one kingpin is fitted it
is the distance from the rearmost position which
is taken into account.
Vehicles brought into scope by the London Safe
Lorry Scheme Traffic Order GLA 2015 No:11 will
be required to be fitted with sideguards where
practically can be fitted.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 9
Sideguards, Rear under-run Devices & Bumper Bars
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Notes

Sideguards - exemptions
• A vehicle or trailer constructed so that it can be unloaded by part of the vehicle being tipped sideways or rearwards.
• A vehicle or trailer designed solely for use in connection with street cleaning, the collection/disposal of refuse or the contents of gullies/cesspools. (Skip
carrying vehicles are classed as refuse vehicles and as such are exempt).
• A trailer specially designed and constructed, and not merely adapted, to carry round timber, beams or girders, being items of exceptional length.
• Tractor units and category T agricultural vehicles.
• A vehicle or trailer specially designed and constructed and not merely adapted to carry other vehicles loaded on to it from the front or rear. (Vehicles
with a standard flat body fitted with a ‘beaver tail’ are not exempt)
• A trailer with a load platform which is not more than 750mm from the ground throughout that part of its length under which a sideguard would have been
fitted.
• A semi-trailer incorporating a sliding bogie.
• Vehicles fitted with an extendable device or leg to provide stability during loading and equipped with loading devices and controls which makes it
impracticable to fully comply with sideguard legislation, will be deemed compliant provided sideguards are in place to the fullest extent practicable.
• Vehicles with access and a working platform adjacent to, and necessary for the operation of, a loading device, shall be regarded as the load carrying
platform for sideguard compliance forward of the extendable device or leg.
• A rigid motor vehicle or trailer designed for and constructed for the special purpose of carrying long (but not exceptionally long timbers from an off-road
location in a forest).
To fulfil this definition the vehicle must meet the following criteria -
• It must be if skeletal construction
• It must have a minimum of two upright side supports (side bolsters) fitted to each side of the vehicle
• It must not be fitted with a load platform, other than chassis rails, cross bearers and the minimum amount of flooring necessary to protect wiring or
brake line components
It is permissible for the vehicle to be fitted with the following;
 Loading equipment i.e. a loading crane or similar device Note: This list is not exhaustive but covers the vehicles
 Cross bearers that do not have upright side supports likely to be encountered.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 9
Sideguards, Rear under-run Devices & Bumper Bars
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Under-run Application
Motor Vehicles with a design gross weight exceeding
3,500kg and first used from 1 April 1984; or trailers
manufactured from 1 May 1983 with an unladen
weight exceeding 1,020kg.

Under-run exemptions
 Tractor units.
 A vehicle or trailer fitted at the rear with apparatus
specially designed for spreading material on a
road.
 A vehicle or trailer so constructed that it can be
unloaded by part of the vehicle being tipped
rearwards.
 A vehicle or trailer specially designed and
constructed, and not merely adapted, to carry
other vehicles loaded onto it from the rear.
(Vehicles with a standard flat body fitted with a
“beaver tail” are not exempt).
 A trailer specially designed and constructed, and
not merely adapted, to carry round timber, beams
or girders, being items of exceptional length.
 A vehicle or trailer fitted with a tail lift so
constructed that a lift platform, with a minimum
length of 1m, forms part of the floor of the vehicle.
 A vehicle specially designed, and not merely
adapted, for the carriage and mixing of concrete.
• Category T agricultural vehicles.

This is not an exhaustive list but covers the vehicles

likely to be encountered.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 10
Spare Wheel & Carrier
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Spare wheel carrier insecure or fractured. Detachment imminent. I

Detachment not imminent. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Spare wheel insecure. Detachment imminent and likely to fall I

from vehicle.

Spare wheel not securely fixed in D

carrier.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 11
Vehicle to Trailer Coupling
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Coupling on Vehicle
Deformed/damaged or cracked pin, jaw, hook or Trailer security adversely affected or use I
ball. would cause danger, trailer attached.

Deformed/damaged or cracked no trailer D

attached.

Mounting of jaw, hook or ball to chassis insecure. Failure or detachment likely. I

Locking device missing, inadequate, damaged or Locking device ineffective. I

ill-fitting.
No trailer attached. D

Worn pin, jaw or hook. Thickness of metal at any point reduced I

to 2/3 or less of its original thickness and
trailer attached.

Significant reduction in thickness of D

metal at any point.

No trailer attached. D

Ball excessively worn. Worn to such an extent that the safe I

coupling of the trailer is unlikely to be
achieved.

Early failure of coupling unlikely. D

Coupling manufacturer’s plate missing. - IN

Trailer incompatible with coupling. - I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 11
Vehicle to Trailer Coupling
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Coupling on Vehicle
1 In certain designs the fifth wheel coupling
Fifth wheel attachment to chassis insecure. Relative movement between chassis and I position can be adjusted or is spring
coupling to the extent that coupling loaded on the chassis.
failure or detachment likely.
2 A certain amount of movement between
Fifth wheel insecure (see notes 1 and 2). D tractor unit and trailer is permissible. The
acceptable amount varies with the make of
Advise early rectification. IN vehicle.
3 The term ‘jaw’ includes multi-towing eyes.
Fifth wheel jaw excessively worn or out of Worn to such an extent that the trailer I
adjustment. kingpin might not be securely held (see 4 When the vehicle and trailer are coupled
notes 2 and 3). the coupling must be secured by a device
that provides a further positive mechanical
No apparent risk of vehicle /trailer D engagement, e.g. a secondary locking
separation. device. In some cases it may not be
immediately evident what this device
Secondary locking device missing/ not operating. (See note 4) D consists of. Action must only be taken
where there is clear evidence that a device
Excessive wear in or insecurity of any member or Failure or detachment likely. I is not present.
securing device.
Immediate failure or detachment unlikely. D

Security spring weak or broken. Broken. I

Weak. D

A load bearing part of the coupling cracked. And failed, detached or detachment I
likely.

No apparent risk of failure or D

detachment.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 11
Vehicle to Trailer Coupling
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Coupling on Trailer

Draw bar cracked or deformed. Seriously cracked or fractured. I

So seriously deformed that use would I
cause danger.
Defective requires rectification. D

Mounting of draw bar to trailer insecure. Failure or detachment likely. I

Defective requires rectification. D

Draw bar eye or ball socket deformed, cracked or Trailer security affected. I
excessively worn.
But no apparent risk of trailer security D
being affected.

Locking device missing, inadequate, damaged or ill- Locking device ineffective. I

fitting.
Not attached to towing vehicle. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 11
Vehicle to Trailer Coupling
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Safety device missing or not operative. - I

King pin attachment excessively worn, cracked or - I

insecure.
Worn operating member. Detachment likely. I

Early detachment not likely. D

Worn draw bar attachment pins and brackets. The thickness of metal at any point re- I
duced to 2/3 or less of its original thick-
ness.

Significant reduction in thickness. D

Any coupling indicator not working. Indicator inoperative. D

Unsafe modification. To any coupling component. I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 12
Trailer Parking and Emergency Brakes and Air Line Connections
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Parking Brake Operation and Performance

1 This applies to brake systems that use a
Parking brake does not operate on at least two road - I ratchet and pawl mechanism and means
wheels. that, when the brake is fully applied, there
is not sufficient further movement of the
Brake cannot be set with trailer either coupled to, or - I
lever because it is at the end of its working
uncoupled from, the drawing vehicle. travel on the ratchet. Some foreign trailers
will not be fitted with parking brakes.
Brake mechanism fractured, insecure, excessively Mechanism fractured or defective to such I
worn or badly corroded. an extent that the brake is inoperative or 2 Before starting this test, make sure the air
failure is likely. reservoirs on the tractor unit are fully
charged. With tractor unit parking brakes
Detachment of brake mechanism I
ON and trailer parking brakes OFF, ask
imminent.
the driver to disconnect the RED
Early detachment unlikely. D (emergency) line brake connector between
tractor and trailer.
3 In most cases, the application of the trailer
Insufficient reserve travel on brake lever Brake efficiency impaired. I brakes can be checked by observing the
(see note 1). actuation of the trailer brake levers.
Brake efficiency not impaired. D
4 The red line connector must be
reconnected by the driver after this
inspection.
5 Agricultural vehicles driven at not more
than 20 mph might not be fitted with
emergency brake lines. This is acceptable.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 12
Trailer Parking and Emergency Brakes and Air Line Connections
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Trailer Emergency Brake

6 This applies to all trailers and to drawing
Trailer brakes are not applied automatically when - I vehicles first used on or after 1 April 1989.
red (emergency brake line is disconnected This action should not be applied to
(see notes 2, 3, 4 and 5). foreign vehicles unless affecting the
correct operation of the brakes.
Air Line Connections
7 This includes combinations fitted with EBS
braking systems.
Any brake line on the drawing vehicle fitted with a Preventing the correct operation of a I
manual tap (see note 6). braking system.

Correct operation of the braking system D

unaffected.

Tap or self-sealing valve defective. Functionality affected. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Tap or valve insecure or inadequately mounted. Functionality affected. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Brake couplings leaking. Excessive leak and functionality affected. I

Serious leak. D

Brake couplings not functioning correctly (electrical Operation of brake affected. I

& pneumatic).
Operation of brake not affected. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 12
Trailer Parking and Emergency Brakes and Air Line Connections
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Service brake line operating adaptor providing Preventing the correct operation of the I
inadequate lift or not fitted. braking system.

Correct operation of the braking D

system unaffected.

Service (yellow) line on a unit to trailer combination - I

not connected (see note 7).

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 38

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 13
Trailer Landing Legs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Trailer Landing Legs

Attachment of landing leg insecure. Detachment imminent. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Pad, wheel, retaining device or handle insecure. Detachment imminent. I

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 14
Spray Suppression, Wings and Wheel Arches
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Wings and Wheel Arches (See Note 5)

NOTE: THIS IM DOES NOT APPLY TO
Wing insecure. (See Note 1). Detachment likely or rubbing on a tyre. I AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES NOT DRIVEN/
DRAWN AT MORE THAN 20MPH.
Advise early rectification. IN
1 The term wing includes other similar
Wing badly holed/corroded/missing/torn or split. Presenting a risk of injury. I devices.

Not acting as a complete shield having D 2 Spray suppression is required for (unless
regard to the original design. specifically exempt) -
 Goods vehicles exceeding 12 tonnes
Advise early rectification. IN
gross vehicle weight first used from 1
April 1986.
Insufficient clearance between wing and tyre. Wing rubbing or likely to rub on tyre, I
particularly when laden and thereby  Trailers exceeding 3.5 tonnes
cause damage to the tyre, or a danger of vehicle weight, manufactured on or
injury e.g. fire risk, steering affected. after 1 May 1985.
 Trailers exceeding 16 tonnes gross
Advise early rectification. IN
vehicle weight with 2 or more
axles, whenever manufactured.
Interior wheel arch holed/corroded (see note 4). Holed or seriously weakened. I

Advise early rectification. IN 3 The spray suppression requirements do

not apply to vehicles incapable of
Obligatory spray suppression equipment insecure/ Detachment likely. I exceeding 30mph.
damaged/missing or incomplete (see notes 2, 3, 4 The ‘holed’ aspect only applies to PSV’s
6, 7, 8 and 9). Missing/incomplete. D and only when it allows the ingress of
water or spray from the road wheels.
Advise early rectification. IN
Continued overleaf...

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 40

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 14
Spray Suppression, Wings and Wheel Arches
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Notes
5 Forestry vehicles (with skeletal chassis and bolsters): Rigid motor vehicles are exempt spray suppression and sideguards but must have wings. Forestry
semi-trailers are exempt spray suppression, sideguards and wings.
6 Incomplete in this context is where a major section of the wing and/or the whole of the spray suppression material is missing.
7 Some foreign vehicles will not have spray suppression fitted and this is acceptable.
8 A vehicle without wings or spray suppression is acceptable where the vehicle carries a semi-trailer/body/container which fulfils the requirements for wing/
spray suppression i.e. a vehicle towing a trailer and the wing tops are not fitted due to the trailer being very close to the tyres.
9 Spray Suppression Exempted Vehicles:
• Motor vehicles with front and rear drive axles.
• Vehicles with a high ground clearance (400mm).
• A vehicle specially designed for the carriage and mixing of concrete.
• A vehicle or trailer constructed for tipping sideways or rearwards (this includes some demountable bodies which can be unloaded by tipping.
• A vehicle or trailer designed solely for use in connection with street cleaning, the collection/disposal of refuse or the contents of gullies/cesspools.
• Skip carrying vehicles are classed as refuse vehicles and are such exempt.
• Category G (Off road Vehicles) and T Tractors (Agricultural tractors and their trailers)

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 41

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 15
Cab Security
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Cab Security
1 Some vehicles are fitted with tilt cabs or
cabs with flexible mountings, movement of
Cab not mounted securely or obviously not squarely Driving control likely to be affected. I
which is a design feature. This is not to be
on the chassis or mountings defective. (See note 1).
confused with excessive wear or
Driving control not likely to be affected. D insecurity.
A significantly defective mounting. D

Advise early rectification. IN

A retention and/or locking device on a forward tilting If only one locking device fitted. I
cab defective or missing.
If more than one device is fitted and at D
least one is serviceable.

Defective attachment of wind deflector to cab roof. Detachment likely. I

Advise early rectification. IN

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 42

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 16
Doors and PSV Passenger Doors
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
External door jammed/obstructed/will not fasten/ Likely to impede any person in an emer- I 1 The term ‘door’ in this context includes
difficult to open. gency or to fly open inadvertently (see entrance and exit doors and emergency
notes 9 and 10). exits, including emergency windows.
2 In the case of a driver’s door, this action is
Door hinges, catches or pillars in such a condition Door likely to fly open or difficult to close. I only appropriate if it is the sole means of
that the door is difficult to close or could fly open access. Some sliding type driver’s doors
inadvertently (see note 11). Is defective advise early rectification. IN are not designed to be retained in the
open position.
Sliding door which cannot be secured in the open Door cannot be secured. I
or closed position and/or runners or tracks so badly 3 Vehicles first registered before 1 April
worn or defective that the door cannot be opened Advise early rectification. IN 1959 need not have a device that isolates
and closed without excessive effort (see note 11). the door gear from the braking system.
4 This will not apply to doors that:
Door missing (see note 1). - I
• Have been permanently closed off as
I part of an officially agreed
Door jammed/obstructed/cannot be opened. Jammed, obstructed, cannot be opened,
defective in operation or deliberately se- modification.
cured so that it cannot be opened (see • Have been locked to safeguard the
notes 2 and 4). vehicle and its contents while left
unattended.
Any emergency break glass window with D • Are on a vehicle traveling empty and
breaking device missing. where the driver can produce a key
to unlock the door.
Any emergency break glass window or D • An obstructed door where a further 2
door, the operation of which is affected exits are available to passengers.
by the application of advertising or tint • Are approved in such a way, that an
film (see note 5). emergency door will remain locked
from the exterior when the key is
Door cannot be retained in the closed position. - I removed, providing the driver can
unlock the door from the exterior
when requested.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 43

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 16
Doors and PSV Passenger Doors
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

5 This action will be appropriate only if the

door has been sealed closed or, in the
case of a break glass window, the film has
Sliding door jammed/likely to become displaced/is Jammed or likely to become displaced I not been broken around the bead.
not retained in the open or closed position. (see notes 2 and 4).
6 It is in order to operate an ‘emergency’
control before applying manual pressure to
Defective advise early rectification. IN open a power operated door.
PSV Passenger Doors (See Note 1) 7 A sensitive door edge safety system is
required on PSV’s manufactured on or
Door holding device missing/ineffective. But unlikely to cause injury. IN after 14 May 1990 or first used on or after
1 October 1990, where the whole of the
Door check device missing/ineffective. But unlikely to cause injury. IN door opening is more than 500mm behind
the driver’s seat. Not required on power
Door stiff or fails to operate. Unable to fully open or close. I operated emergency doors.
7a A safety system for preventing a
Advise early rectification. IN passenger from being trapped must be
provided on all power operated doors
Door operation affects braking system. Repeated operation of the doors de- I without a soft rubber edge.
pletes the braking system air/vacuum
Every power operated door fitted to a
below the pressure/vacuum threshold at
minibus must cease closing when meeting
which the circuit protection valve should
resistance and either re-open or be
operate (see note 3).
capable of being opened manually.
Power operated door cannot be opened manually. (See note 6). I Continued overleaf...

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 44

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 16
Doors and PSV Passenger Doors
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Door sensitive edge or other safety device not Where required (see notes 7 and 7a). I 8 Warning devices are only required on;
working or deteriorated.
Where not required. IN  Schedule 6 minibuses which do not have two
stage slam locks.
 Large buses with more than 20 passenger
seats which are certified for one person
operation and used on local services on each
“Door open” warning device inoperative. Inoperative (and required) (see note 8). I emergency window.
 Continental doors.
Inoperative (not required) IN
• Vehicles first used on or after 1 October 1990
with power operated doors which are more
than 500mm to the rear of the driver’s seat
Draught excluder insecure. Likely to cause obstruction or injury. I (typically centre doors). In this case the
warning must be visual.
Unlikely to cause obstruction or injury. IN • Any external door or hinged exit (including
any emergency exit) which is outside the
driver’s direct line of sight.
Door operation severe. Likely to cause injury. I • On a vehicle certified on or after 1 January
1997. This does not apply to a door of a
Unlikely to cause injury. IN minibus if that door has a two stage lock
 On an emergency door or floor hatch on a
Bus Directive or ECE regulation vehicle. This
Obligatory markings or fitting missing/damaged/ Emergency exit sign missing. must be an audible device.
D
ineffective.  On any hinged emergency window which is
Emergency exit sign illegible. IN not clearly visible to the driver on a Bus
Directive or ECE regulation vehicle. This must
be an audible device.
Any normally fitted exit door handle guard missing. - IN Continued overleaf...

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 45

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 16
Doors and PSV Passenger Doors
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Notes

9 Where the driver’s door of a PSV doubles as an emergency door (see Note 1).
10 On a HGV, if one door is deliberately rendered inoperative, then it must be considered to be an integral part of the cab
11 The cab doors and fastening devices on agricultural vehicles are sometimes crudely designed. Before applying these standards examiners must take
account of the original design of the component.
The potential speed of the vehicle, the likelihood of a door flying open and whether it would be likely to swing beyond the edge of the vehicle must also
be considered.
12 On Bus Directive and ECE Regulation vehicles, there might not be a primary emergency exit, if the vehicle has two service doors. On Bus Directive
vehicles, the primary emergency exit may be power operated; floor hatches may be used as emergency exits.
13 Bus Directive: This means a bus or coach which meets the requirements of the Bus Directive EC 2001/85. The vehicle may have a full type approval or
may have been inspected to the requirements of the directive. The technical print for the vehicle will indicate “Bus Directive” vehicles.
14 ECE regulation vehicle: This means a bus which has been built or approved to ECE regulation 36 (buses with more than 22 passengers), ECE regulation
52 (buses with not more than 22 passengers) or ECE regulation 107 (double deck buses).

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 46

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 17
Accommodation and Steps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Cab Area and Fittings

Cab floor insecure/badly weakened. Affects driving control or safety of driver. I

No immediate risk to safety. D

Cab step or step ring on a wheel insecure/badly Likely to cause injury to users or become I
weakened/damaged/worn. detached.

But no immediate risk to safety. D

Step has a jagged edge. Likely to cause injury to a person near I

the vehicle.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 47

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 18
Driver’s Seat
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Driver’s Seat

Driver’s seat insecure on its mounting, frame Seat so insecure/weakened/or in such a I

fractured, seriously weakened or seriously condition that it could cause the driver to
defective. lose control of the vehicle.

Defective requires rectification. D

Driver’s seat adjustment inoperative/badly worn. Seat likely to move inadvertently or I

cannot be located.

Seat backrest not fixable. I

Adjustment mechanism not functioning D

correctly.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 48

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 19
Security of Body, Containers and Crane Support Legs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Security of Body Insecurity of body pillar or body I 1 The presence of defective items does not
Body components and fixings (e.g. twist locks) components or cross or longitudinal necessarily mean that the body is to be
loose/fractured/missing. members to the chassis, likely to affect regarded as so insecurely fixed as to be
safe carriage of passengers or load. dangerous.
The cumulative effect of any defects
found, or their effect on other items, is the
Fixing insecure or defective but not D criterion to be used when judging this item.
affecting safe carriage of passenger or 2 Most designs of vehicles have a certain
load (see Note 1). amount of freedom between the body and
chassis to allow for flexing. This must not
Excessive displacement of the body relative to the Likely to lead to loss of control. I be confused with insecurity.
chassis.
But is unlikely to lead to immediate D 3 Where fitted in conjunction with a socket
loss of control (see Note 2). all twist locks must be used.
Security of Containers In the case of a dual-purpose flat bed, if all
the twist locks have been removed then it
Container fastening device missing/insecure/ Likely to affect the overall security of a I is not to be regarded as defective.
incomplete/seized/not fitted with a secondary container. These criteria can be extended beyond
locking device/not capable of adequately securing a 4
those fitted to vehicles with cranes to any
container (see note 3). A container fastening insecure and I vehicle equipped with stabilising/support
likely to detach. legs.
A container fastening missing or I 5 This guidance applies where retaining
devices were originally fitted. An
damaged. (see note 6).
alternative retaining device is acceptable
I provided the support leg is adequately
A container fastening without a
secondary locking device that is likely secured.
to affect the overall security of a
container. (see note 6).

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 19
Security of Body, Containers and Crane Support Legs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Support bolster or structure insecure/cracked/ Likely to affect the overall security of a I

corroded or damaged. container.

Container mounting point unlikely to be D

secured or supported by it.

Advise early rectification. IN

Support bolster not fitted with locking pins or other Likely to affect the overall security of a I
securing method incorporating an effective locking container.
device.
Container mounting point unlikely to be D
secured or supported by it.

Advise early rectification. IN

Crane Support Legs

Crane support leg insecure/retaining device Insecure or likely to extend. I

missing/insecure or in such a condition that it will
not adequately retain the leg (see notes 4 and 5). Retaining device missing or incapable of D
operating as designed.

Advise early rectification. IN

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 50

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 19
Security of Body, Containers and Crane Support Legs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Security of Load (see notes 6 to 23)

6. Unless other suitable means of preventing
Insecure load that shows evidence of moving or is No load securing. (see note 18). I movement have been used.
likely to move and presents an immediate danger, 7. A single indivisible item may be loaded
or is likely to cause danger of injury. Load securing is grossly inadequate I above the height of the headboard if the
either because of its condition, headboard supports it to the height of the
securing method, or lack of lashings. centre of gravity.
Load items or stacks of items weighing I 8. This is poor practice but there may be no
400kg or more carried inside a Euro- other suitable attachment points.
liner or tilt (see note 6). 9. Plant should be against a bulkhead or the
step of a low-loader or chocked.
Load items or stacks of items weighing
I
400kg or more secured with roof- 10. Unless a rigid cover or a rated sheet
mounted buckle straps inside a non-XL completely covers and secures the load
rated curtain-sider. without any gaps.
11. Each layer must be lashed to the one
Load items or stacks of items weighing
I below and then the entire load lashed to
400kg or more secured with nets
inside a non-XL rated curtain-sider. the carrying vehicle.
12. Any winch cable should be attached but is
Paper reels on-end in a curtain-sider I not classed as securing. Damaged
without friction matting or similar high- vehicles can be secured by lashing over
friction contact surface in addition to the vehicle.
the restraint system. (see note 6).
13. Additional lashings will be required for
More than a 30cm gap between load buckets and similar accessories.
I
and headboard (see notes 6, 19).

Continued overleaf... Continued overleaf...

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 51

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 19
Security of Body, Containers and Crane Support Legs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Security of Load (see notes 6 to 23) 14. Curtains that are bulging due to wood-chip
Gap of more than 8cm on one or I loads can be considered as IN provided
both sides of a load in an XL
they are carried in a chip-liner.
rated curtain-sider (see notes 6, 19).
15. Unless individually clamped to the
More than a 30cm gap between I headboard.
load and rear doors in an XL rated
curtain-sider (see notes 6 and 19).
16. Two lashings or a suitable restraint system
must be used to prevent the external frame
More than 30cm gap between load I
being damaged.
items along the length of the load
bed in an XL rated
17. The load must be stable on the vehicle bed
curtain-sider (see notes 6 and 19).
and secured to an approved standard.
Significant gaps along the length of I
the load that are cumulatively more 18. Walking pace door-to-door coal delivery is
than 30cm in an XL rated curtain- exempted from the requirement to secure
sider (see notes 6 and 19). the load.

Load items weighing 400kg or more on I 19. Considerations should be given to local
the upper deck of a double-deck trailer. deliveries from breweries.

Load affecting vehicle stability. 20. Unless secured on a commercial

I
transporter vehicle.
Unstable load likely to topple from I
vehicle. 21. Skips must not be stacked so high that the
centre line of the top skip is above the
height of the lifting arms when stowed.
Continued overleaf...
22. For example, polystyrene packaging, empty
cardboard boxes, or loose clothing.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 52

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 19
Security of Body, Containers and Crane Support Legs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Security of Load (see notes 6 to 23) Severe structural damage to headboard 23 Where drivers face an immediate danger or
I
or gaps in headboard that could allow risk of serious personal injury they should
load to move forward (see note 6). secure the vehicle as best they can and
move at low speed to the nearest place of
Items loaded over the height of the safety where the load can be secured.
I
headboard (see notes 6, 7).

Un-sheeted loose load in bulk tipper, I

skip or sided flatbed body.

Stacked loaded skips (see note 17). I

Stacked empty skips not nested and I

secured by lashings (see notes 17, 21).

Insecure skip. I

Load in a tipper above the height of the I

fixed sides (see note 10).

Vehicle/trailers carried by “piggyback” I

without adequate securing (see note 11).

Vehicles not secured by lashings on all I

wheels (see notes 12, 20, 23).

Continued overleaf...

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 53

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 19
Security of Body, Containers and Crane Support Legs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Security of Load (see notes 6 to 23) Loose items on a flatbed or low-loader I

(see note 18).

Less than four lashings on heavy plant I

equipment and machinery (see notes 9,
13).

Less than four lashings and two chocks I

on wheeled heavy plant equipment (see
notes 9 and 13).

Items loaded at an angle over the I

headboard without a minimum of two
loop (choke) securing lashings. (see
note 15).

No tailboard to prevent the rearward I

movement of the load on a sided flatbed
vehicle or trailer (see notes 6, 18).

Less than two lashings on a filled IBC I

(see note 16).

Stacked boxes secured with box pusher I

(see note 6).

Loose tyres carried in a curtain-sider. I

(see note 6).

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 54

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 19
Security of Body, Containers and Crane Support Legs
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Insecure load. Lashing on rope hooks (see note 8). IN

Minor damage to the headboard not
IN
affecting the structural integrity.

Poor condition of securing IN

equipment but not affecting its
function.
IN
Unsuitable vehicle for load
(see note 14).

Very light items adequately IN

contained by curtains (see note 22).

Load appears safe but not secured in

IN
accordance with published guidance.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 55

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 20
Condition of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Body Panelling
1 The presence of some defects does not
necessarily mean that the body is in such
Exterior body panel damaged/missing/protruding/ Likely to become detached or to cause I
a condition that it would be dangerous for
insecure. injury or permit the load to be shed or
other road users.
leaked. The cumulative effect of any defects
found, or their effect on other items is the
IN criterion to be used when judging this item.
2 Any superficial damage that does not
Any embellishment protruding/damaged/insecure. Likely to become detached and/or cause I affect the strength of the component is not
(Specify component). injury. to be regarded as a defect.
3 These standards do not apply to small
IN access flaps e.g. Fuel filler or coolant filler
access flaps.
Part of body or floor designed to carry or contain the Load likely to become detached or to I
load missing or damaged. cause injury or permit it to be shed or 4 This will apply only where luggage is being
leaked. carried in the compartment at the time of
inspection.
IN 5 Devices to hold flaps/doors open are
required only where they are provided to
PSV Flap Type Doors (See note 3) give access to luggage compartments.
Similar flaps or doors provided for other
Any flap/door catch defective/catch missing/ Detachment likely or is likely to fly open. I purposes e.g. Engine or spare wheel
insecure. access are not required to have them.
IN

Any flap/door protruding when closed exposing Likely to cause injury or damage. I
sharp (jagged) edges.
IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 20
Condition of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

PSV Flap Type Doors (continued)

Flap/door check device missing/ineffective. Door opening too far and likely to D
obscure obligatory lights.

IN
PSV Luggage Compartments

Water leakage into luggage compartment. Likely to soil or damage passenger’s D

luggage (see note 4).

IN

Luggage compartment damaged/dirty. Likely to soil or damage passenger’s D

luggage (see note 4).

IN

Luggage compartment floor damaged/deteriorated/ Floor likely to collapse. I

weak.
IN

Luggage compartment door catch defective/missing/ Detachment likely or is likely to fly open I
insecure. inadvertently.

IN

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 57

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 20
Condition of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Luggage compartment door protruding when closed Likely to cause injury or damage. I
exposing sharp (jagged) edges.

IN

Luggage compartment door holding device missing/ Does not remain in the open position and I
ineffective (see note 5). is likely to close or cause injury.

IN

Luggage compartment door check device missing/ Door opening too far and likely to D
ineffective. obscure obligatory lights.

IN

Cab and Bodywork

Unsafe modification. I

Permitting entry of engine or exhaust fumes. I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 21
Interior of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
PSV Floor, Gangways, Steps and Stairs Holed or likely to collapse. I
Floor/gangway/passageway/steps/stairways/ NOTE: THIS IM ITEM DOES NOT APPLY TO
retractable steps/platforms (state location). D AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES.

IN 1 Steps or platforms forming part of an

emergency exit are not required to be
Retractable step not retracting. - I illuminated.
2 Any surface contamination of the seat
Floor trap weakened/damaged/missing. Likely to collapse or likely to cause I covering should not take into account dust
obstruction or injury. in the seat fabric or loose dust.
Floor trap locking device defective. Trap insecure and likely to lift. I 3 Applicable if due to an accidental spillage.
4 Some older coaches have been certified
IN with crew seats with latches to operate
before the seat will fold.
Floor/step/stair/stair covering torn/lifting/bubbling. I Prohibition action will not be appropriate in
and likely to cause obstruction or these cases. If there is any doubt, take
injury. inspection notice action only and advise.
IN 5 Roof lights mean translucent panels fitted
in the body roof.
Floor/step/stair/tread plate/moulding badly worn/ I 6 Large buses used solely as local service
lifting. and likely to cause obstruction or vehicles need not carry a first aid kit.
injury.
7 PSV’s and Schedule 6 minibuses only.
IN 8 This inspection also applies to articulated
PSV bellows.
Step/stair insecure/weakened/damaged/having Likely to cause injury or become I
jagged edges/defective. detached.

IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 21
Interior of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

PSV Passenger Entrance

Entrance floor mat badly worn/of incorrect size. Likely to trip passengers. I

IN
PSV Artificial Lighting

Interior lamp missing/inoperative. - IN

Inadequate illumination at entrance/exit/step/stair Constituting a risk of injury. I

(see note 1).
IN
PSV Passenger and Crew Seats

Seat incorrectly spaced or a crew seat which Access to an exit is obstructed. D

encroaches on the minimum gangway width and
does not fold away automatically (see note 4).
IN

Seat insecure. Likely to become detached. I

IN

Seat covering slashed/torn. - IN

Seat frame fractured. Seat failure or displacement likely. I

IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 21
Interior of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Permitted number of seats obviously exceeds Could endanger passengers. D 9 Bells/buzzers/visual warnings are not
approval (see note 11). required on buses with less than 13
passenger seats or Schedule 6 minibuses
Seat positioning obviously not in accordance with Could endanger passengers. D but are required on non-Schedule 6
approval (see note 11). minibuses with 13 or more passenger
seats. All bus directive and ECE
Regulation vehicles which carry standing
Passenger seats generally contaminated or dirty. Likely to soil clothing (see note 2). D passengers must have at least one
illuminated sign to indicate to passengers
the bus is stopping. Some communication
Isolated seat or group of seats contaminated. (See note 3). IN devices will sound once only until reset by
passenger doors opening or similar.
10 Bus Directive and ECE Regulation
Seat damaged. Likely to cause injury. I
vehicles, which are not authorised for the
carriage of standing passengers, do not
Likely to tear clothing. D
require passenger to driver communication
devices.
IN
11 Layout which has been changed without
approval and which could endanger
passengers.
Driver’s seat (additional requirements). Protection for driver likely to cause injury. I 12 Where more than one means of ventilation
is provided an assessment will have to be
Protection for driver insecure. IN made as to whether more than 50% of the
total ventilation of all types is ineffective. If
in doubt advisory action only.
HGV passenger seats 13 Some forced air ventilation systems will
Defective, insecure or permitted number exceeded. Passenger seat insecure or backrest D not operate unless the engine is running
cannot be secured in upright position, and the alternator is charging.
permitted number exceeded. Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 21
Interior of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

PSV Interior Fittings

Parcel rack insecure/damaged/holed. 14 Apply the standards in this section for
Likely to collapse or to permit luggage to I vehicles that have not been issued with an
fall on to passengers. Accessibility Certificate or Disability
Discrimination Act special authorisation.
IN
15 If missing or ineffective but other
wheelchair spaces are available and free
Items likely to fall on to driver. I of defects an exemption may be issued
Guard not fitted to parcel rack end.
allowing the vehicle to complete its
Likely to detach under weight of I journey. A condition will be imposed
Interior stanchion/guard rail/grab rail missing/
passengers and /or cause injury. specifying the number of wheelchair
insecure/damaged.
passengers permitted.
IN 16 An inoperative powered ramp or lift that
does not pose danger to any person or
Roof light insecure/missing. Likely to become displaced and fall on to I road user should be subject to inspection
occupants (see note 5). notice action. If the lift or ramp is
permanently disabled, VTP5 Notifiable
IN Alteration action is required allowing a
revised Carrying Capacity Authorisation
to be issued.

17 Vehicles over 3m high must display a

notice in the cab where it is easily visible
to the driver and can be understood as
indicating a height in relation to the
vehicle or any trailer drawn.

Further guidance is detailed in DVSA's

Enforcement Sanctions Policy document.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 21
Interior of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Fire extinguisher missing/empty/defective/wrong (See note 7). IN

type e.g. powder.

First aid equipment missing/incomplete. (See notes 6 and 7). IN

Interior body panel damaged/holed/missing/ Likely to cause injury to any person. I

protruding/insecure (see note 8).

Legal writing/warning notices missing/illegible. - IN

Passenger communication device missing/ Where the driver is in a separate I

inoperative. compartment (see notes 9 and 10).

IN

Engine cover missing/insecure. Missing from saloon or driver’s I

compartment.

Engine compartment sound deadening material Likely to become displaced or cause a I

insecure/oil soaked. fire hazard.

IN

Graffiti/contamination on an internal surface (state Likely to soil clothing. D

location).
Other unauthorised writing or drawing. IN

IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 21
Interior of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

TV equipment insecure (e.g. TV, video, coffee bar Likely to become detached and/or cause I
etc...). injury.

IN
Ventilation Equipment
Opening windows cannot be opened (see note 12). 50% or more opening windows cannot D
be opened.

Forced air ventilation equipment missing/ 50% or more forced air ventilation outlets D
inoperative/ineffective (see note 13). missing/inoperative/ineffective.

IN

Canopy ventilator defective. Canopy insecure and detachment likely. I

Seized open and not protecting the D

passengers from the elements.

Seized closed and no alternative D

ventilation available.

IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 21
Interior of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair Spaces

Rearward Facing Wheelchairs (see note 14)

Stanchion or retractable rail relating to the Likely to detach if used or cause injury to I
wheelchair area missing, insecure or damaged. any person.

IN

Partition or panel relating to the wheelchair area Panel likely to fall away and/or cause I
missing, damaged or insecure. injury to any person.

IN

Unrestrained wheelchair padded backrest insecure Insecure and likely to fail when loaded or I
or damaged. cause injury to any person.

IN

Forward Facing Wheelchairs (see note 15) Missing, ineffective, incapable of I

Occupied wheelchair or user restraint fixings performing its intended function or likely
missing/ineffective/deteriorated or insecure to detach if loaded.
(see note 15).
IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 21
Interior of Body
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Floor fixings loose or projecting. Serious risk of passengers tripping or I

being injured.

Advise early rectification IN

Wheelchair or user restraint system missing/ Incapable of being easily operated in I

damaged or defective. an emergency.

Advise early rectification. IN

Boarding Devices - Lifts and Ramps

A lift or ramp severely weakened, with sharp edges Likely to fail or cause injury to any I
or other protrusions. person.

Advise early rectification. IN

Lift or ramp cannot be secured in the stowed Posing a risk of injury to any person. I
position.
Advise early rectification (see note 16) IN

Powered Lifts and Ramps

Defective in operation. Posing a risk of injury to any person. I

Advise early rectification (see note 16) IN

In-cab Height Indicator

Height indicator missing, illegible, displaying Advise early rectification. IN
incorrect height or does not comply with required
Regulations (see note 17)

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 22
Driver’s Mirrors
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Mirrors (see note 4, 7 and 8)

External mandatory mirror, glass or other external 1 HGV’s first used before 1 April 1985 (PSV
No adequate view to the rear, side or I 1 April 1983) must have exterior mirror on
indirect vision device missing. front as required. the offside and one interior mirror, or an
exterior mirror on each side.
If no adequate view to the rear, side or I
External mandatory mirror, glass or other external
indirect vision device insecure/damaged/view front (as required) (see notes 1 and 5). HGV’s first used on or after 1 April 1985
obscured (see notes 3, 5 and 6). (PSV 1 April 1983) must have an exterior
External mirror likely to become I mirror on each side.
detached.
Rigid HGV’s first used on or after 1
Advise early rectification. IN October 1988 exceeding 12 tonnes DGVW
must have an exterior mirror on each side,
plus one close proximity mirror on the
Interior rear-view mirror missing/defective/ Likely to become detached and fall on I nearside, plus one wide angle mirror on
insecure (see note 3). to driver/occupants. the nearside.
Missing or unusable (see note 2). D Articulated HGV’s first used on or after 1
October 1988 exceeding 12 tonnes DGVW
Advise early rectification (see note 2). IN must have an exterior mirror on each side,
plus one close proximity mirror on the
nearside, plus one wide angle mirror on
Likely to become detached and fall on I the nearside.
A periscope, optical or other indirect vision device
to driver/occupants, or otherwise in
for the purpose of viewing the presence of
such condition as to cause injury.
passengers defective. Continued overleaf...
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 22
Driver’s Mirrors
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Notes

1 Continued

HGV's first used from 26th January 2007 exceeding 7.5 tonnes DGVW will require an exterior mirror on the offside and nearside plus a close proximity
mirror on the passenger side and a wide angle mirror on the offside and nearside, from the 26th January 2008 a front mirror must also be fitted. If either
the front mirror or close proximity mirrors cannot be fitted (with the lower edge of the mirror) at least 2 meters or more from the ground (due to low cab
height), the vehicle is exempt the requirement for both front and close proximity mirrors.

HGV's first used from 01st January 2000 exceeding 3.5 tonnes DGVW will require an exterior mirror on the offside and nearside, plus a close proximity
mirror and a wide-angle mirror on the passenger side. A vehicle within this group not exceeding 7.5 tonnes DGVW where the close proximity mirror
cannot be fitted (with the lower edge of the mirror) at least 2 meters or more from the ground are exempt from the requirement for both close proximity
and wide-angle mirrors.
There are a minority of vehicles which can achieve the view to the front without a front mirror, if you are in any doubt about the necessity for a front
mirror contact TaSS Swansea.
2 A missing or unusable interior mirror must be regarded as a defect only when there are no external rear view mirrors fitted to each side of the vehicle.
3 Mirrors are not required on agricultural vehicles driven at not more than 20 mph or any agricultural vehicle first used before 1 June 1986.
4 An indirect vision device may be accepted in the place of any mirror and the words ‘indirect vision device’ may replace the word ‘mirror’ in this section
where applicable.
5 Obscured means that the view from the mirror is restricted to such an extent that it does not assist the driver to become aware of traffic. The attached
link contains further guidance: www.gov.uk/government/publications/special-types-enforcement-guide/special-types-enforcement-guide

6 Vehicles brought into scope by the London Safe Lorry Scheme Traffic Order GLA 2015 No:11 will be required to be fitted with class V and class VI
mirrors where they can practically be fitted.
7 For the purpose of this inspection on a left hand drive vehicle the nearside is at the right and the offside at the left.

8 "Indirect vision device" means devices to observe the traffic area adjacent to the vehicle which cannot be observed by direct vision. These can be
mirrors, camera monitors or other devices (but not a periscope) able to present information about indirect field of vision to the driver.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 23
Glass and View of the Road
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

View to the front

See below
Driver’s view to the front or sides impaired having Any object seriously impairing driver’s I
regard to the original design of the vehicle (see view through the area swept by the
notes 1 to 7a). windscreen wipers or view through outer
mirrors seriously impaired.

Advise early rectification. IN

1 Reversing monitors and navigation screens may be acceptable, provided they do not impair the drivers view to the road and are of manufacturers original
equipment.
2 As a general rule nothing should be placed in the swept area of the wipers. Some official stickers and road safety items are permitted provided they do
not seriously impair the drivers view of the road. Official stickers are those that have a mandatory requirement to be in the windscreen for enforcement,
security or crime prevention. E.g: ‘O’ licence, police authority vehicle anti-theft scheme stickers, security passes, disabled driver permits/badges etc.
3 Swept area means the area swept by the wipers in their normal operation not including an area covered to reach the ‘parked’ position or which the
manufacturer deems as ‘opaque’
4 Acceptable item for PSV’s: Accessibility handrails, anti-vandal screens and their poles, ticket machine/fare collection equipment is allowed as long as a
person 1.07mtrs (3ft 6ins tall), 300mm wide is not totally concealed in front of the vehicle.

5 Some vehicles have very large screens whose wipers cover an area that serves no particular use. The area above the horizontal line taken from the eye
position assessed by the driver seated looking forward in the usual driving position, with the seat in it’s highest position can be ignored, other than the
area required to view the rear-view mirror where applicable.
6 Features which may intrude into the swept area provided they do not seriously impair the drivers view are: vehicle distance or lane indicator lenses,
automatic windscreen wiper detectors, wiper blade cleaning grooves, Fresnel lens, split windscreens, central parking wipers and driver monitoring
systems.
7 Features which are not permitted into the swept area and must not seriously impair the drivers view are; no smoking signs, height signs, satnav if not
vehicle original equipment, maintenance information stickers, dash mounted tables, laptops, tablets & mobile phones.

7a For the purpose of 'seriously impairing drivers view' the examiner will need to make this assessment from the drivers viewpoint, as if being driven on the
road, accounting for the view of the road in relation to traffic, cyclists and pedestrians etc.
Examples used are not a definitive list.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 23
Glass and View of the Road
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Windscreen and Windows

8 On vehicles first used before 1 January
Windscreen cracked/scratched/discoloured. Driver’s view of the road seriously I
1959, if glass is fitted to windscreens and
impaired/presents a danger to occupants
windows facing to the front on the outside
of the vehicle/detachment likely.
of any motor vehicle, except the upper
deck of a double decked bus, it must be
Advise early rectification. IN
safety glass.
Windscreen not of safety glass. (See notes 8,9,10 and 11). I 9 On PSV’s first used between 1 January
1959 and 31 May 1978, if glass is fitted to
Driver’s side window not of safety glass. (See notes 8,9, 10 and 11). D windscreens or any windows on the
outside, it must be safety glass
PSV driver’s interior door/screen not of safety glass (See notes 9, 11, 12, 13 and 14). D
10 Safety glass on vehicles first used before 1
or of a safety glazing material. June 1978 need not be marked as such.
Where markings have been applied, these
PSV window not of safety glass or of a safety (See notes 8,9,10 and 11). I
can fade with time.
glazing material.
11 On vehicles first used on or after 1 June
PSV window glazing missing/insecure/cracked. Missing, detachment likely and/or I 1978, windscreens and other windows
presents a danger. wholly or partly on either side of the
driver’s seat must be specified safety
Advise early rectification. IN glass. All other windows must be specified
safety glass or glazing.
Relevant vehicle (see note 10) with glass not - IN
12 On PSV’s first used on or after 1 April
marked with an acceptable mark. 1959 and before 1 April 1988, transverse
windows or transparent partitions not of
Windscreen and front side windows excessively Average light transmission <30%. I
safety glass or safety glazing must be
tinted. adequately protected against breakage
Average light transmission >30% <45%. D
should a passenger be thrown against
them.
Average light transmission >45% <65%. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 23
Glass and View of the Road
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

PSV Windows
13 On PSV’s first used on or after 1 April
1988, all transverse windows or
Window louvres cracked/broken/insecure. Detachment likely and/or presents a I
transparent partitions must be of safety
danger.
glass or safety glazing.
On PSV’s first used before 1 April 1959,
Advise early rectification. IN transverse windows or transparent
partitions not of safety glass or safety
Weather strip damaged/deteriorated. - IN glazing must be adequately protected
against breakage if they face transverse
Window dirty. Affecting vision and/or light. IN
seats.
14 Safety glazing is permissible for windows
forming all or part of a door fitted in the
interior of a PSV at the side of the driver’s
Driver’s seat (additional requirements). Defective special device such as anti- D seat so as to form a compartment for the
glare shield and field of vision impaired. driver.

Field of vision not impaired. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 24
Accessibility Features
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

See Note 1, which applies to all sections of IM 24

NOTE: THIS IM ITEM DOES NOT APPLY TO
AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES.
Wheel Chair Spaces
1. The standards in this section apply only to
vehicles issued with an Accessibility
Sign or instruction indicating the direction the Missing or illegible. IN
Certificate or Special Authorisation. As an
wheelchair and user should face during travel
alternative to Schedules 1 ,2 and 3 some
missing or deteriorated.
vehicles with accessibility certificates will
be Bus Directive vehicles and will include
Safety instructions explaining the use of the Missing or illegible. IN
compliance with Annex VII of the directive.
wheelchair space and restraint systems missing or
deteriorated (not Annex VII vehicles).
Annex VII means Annex VII to Bus
Rearward facing Wheelchairs Insecure and likely to fail when loaded; I Directive 2001/85/EC and Annex VII
Padded backrest missing, insecure or damaged or missing and likely to cause injury to any vehicle means a Bus Directive vehicle
other device supplied to support the wheels or the occupant. required to comply with Annex VII.
back of the wheelchair missing or damaged (see ECE Regulation vehicle means a bus
note 2). Missing. D
which has been built or approved to ECE
Regulation 36 (buses with more than 22
Advise early rectification. IN
passengers), ECE Regulation 52 (buses
with not more than 22 passengers), or
Partition or panel relating to the wheelchair area Panel likely to fall away and/or cause I
ECE Regulation 107 (double deck buses).
missing, damaged or insecure. injury to any person or danger caused by
absence. This information is noted on the technical
record of the vehicle. For vehicles not
Missing. D issued with such certificates or where it is
not known apply the standards in IM21.
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 24
Accessibility Features
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Forward Facing Wheelchairs (see note 3)

2 On Annex VII vehicles a backrest where
fitted need not be padded and as an
Wheel chair or user restraint fixings missing/ Ineffective/incapable of performing its I
alternative to a backrest a device which
ineffective/deteriorated or insecure. intended function or likely to detach if acts as a support for the wheels of the
loaded.
wheelchair may be permitted.
Missing (position unoccupied). D 3 No wheelchair user restraint for Bus
Directive Annex VII vehicles if the
Advise early rectification. IN passenger seats in the vehicle are not
required to be fitted with any form of
Floor fixings loose or projecting. Serious risk of passengers tripping or I occupant restraint.
being injured.

Wheelchair or user restraint system missing/ Ineffective/incapable of performing its I

damaged or defective. intended function or likely to detach if
loaded.

Incapable of being easily operated in an I

emergency.

Missing. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Safety instructions on the use of wheelchair and/or Missing or illegible. IN

wheel chair user restraints missing or deteriorated
(not annex VII vehicles).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 24
Accessibility Features
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Boarding Devices - Ramps and Lifts

A lift or ramp missing, insecure or severely Likely to fail or cause injury to any I
weakened, with sharp edges or other protrusions. person.

Missing. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Lift or ramp cannot be secured in the stowed Posing a risk of injury to any person. I
position.
Advise early rectification. IN

Lift surface device for preventing wheelchairs from Wheelchair users at risk of injury. I
rolling off defective or missing.
Not capable of operating as intended. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Contrasting band of colour along the edge of a ramp Missing or visually defective. D
or lift deteriorated (not annex VII lifts).
Deteriorated but still visible. IN

Powered lifts or ramps Posing a risk of injury to any person. I

Fails to operate by the primary means or operation
presents a risk to any person. Inoperative . D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 24
Accessibility Features
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Secondary means or operation incomplete or Fails to operate at all or missing. D 4 Examiners should be aware that the
defective (see note 4. secondary means of operation can be
Advise early rectification. IN achieved by using a portable ramp.
4a Safety devices are required as approved.
Audible warning or operation inoperative Missing or inaudible. D Refer to vehicle technical record.
(not annex VII vehicles fitted with a lift.
Advise early rectification. IN

Lamp and audible warning of operation of an annex No warning of operation. I

VII vehicle powered ramp.
Advise early rectification. IN
Portable Ramps and Powered Ramp/Hoist
Secondary Operation
There is not at least one portable ramp available for Missing. D
use when required (i.e. where there is no manual
ramp, powered lift or ramp fitted and working, or no
manual secondary means to operate a powered lift/
ramp.

A portable ramp with no suitable stowage position. A hazard likely to cause injury. Advise I

early rectification. IN

A portable ramp which cannot be safely fitted for Incapable of being fitted or if fitted not I
passenger use. capable of performing its function.

A lift or ramp safety device intended to prevent the Device inoperative. I

vehicle from being driven normally when the lift or
ramp is not in its intended position for vehicle
travel. (see note 4a).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 24
Accessibility Features
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Viewing Devices (see note 5)

5 This is not required where the lift or ramp
is in direct field of driver’s vision from the
The driver, whilst seated in the drivers seat, does The inside and outside of the door area I
driving seat or where the operating control
not have a direct or indirect view of the inside and/or or the lift or ramp are not visible to the
is adjacent to the lift or ramp.
outside of the doors where power operated lifts or driver from the driver’s seat.
ramps are located. (This is not applicable where the 6 Internally this would be at a wheelchair
operating controls are adjacent to the lift or ramp). Insecurity and likely to cause injury. I space or externally adjacent to the
wheelchair entrance that is outside the
Advise early rectification. IN direct view of the driver. Where the
wheelchair entrance/exit is within direct
Communication Devices (see note 6) view of the driver no device is required.
Any device intended for wheelchair users Missing or inoperative. D Examiners should consider any other
7
inoperative or missing. artificial and natural lighting.
Any exterior communication device inoperative or Missing or inoperative. D
missing.

Entrance and Exit Lighting (see note 7)

Lighting specifically intended for wheelchair users to Illumination of the area so inadequate as I
be able to board or alight in safety is missing, to pose a risk to the safety of users.
inoperative or badly deteriorated.
Other lighting provides sufficient IN
illumination for users.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 24
Accessibility Features
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steps/Floors/Gangways
Slip resistant material deteriorated and no longer Users likely to lose their footing. I
effective.
Advise early rectification. IN

Contrasting band of colour along the edge of a step Missing. D

missing or deteriorated
(not annex VII or ECE regulation vehicles). Deteriorated but still visible. IN

Folding or extendible step damaged or not Step projecting and/or likely to cause I
functioning correctly. injury.

Cannot be stowed correctly. IN

Kneeling Suspension
Controls do not stop and reverse lowering process. - I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 25
Windscreen Wipers and Washers
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Washers and Wipers

1 If the windscreen can be opened, or by
Windscreen wiper missing/damaged/inoperative/ Any wiper missing, inoperative or I
some other means, an adequate view can
blades worn (see note 1). damaged such that the driver’s view to
be obtained from the driving seat, the
the front is impaired.
vehicle need not be provided with wipers
Subject to prevailing weather conditions D or washers.
(i.e. weather fine). 2 Washers are not required on PSV’s whilst
on local service duty.
Advise early rectification. IN
3 Washers are not required on agricultural
motor vehicles first used before 1 June
1986, or those driven at speeds not
exceeding 20mph.
Windscreen washer not fitted/inoperative/system Vision seriously impaired. I
incomplete (see notes 1, 2 and 3).
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 26
Speedometer/Tachograph
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Speedometer
1 Vehicles first registered on or after 1
October 1937 must be fitted with a
Missing (if required) or not operational at all or not - D
speedometer unless the vehicle is legally
capable of being illuminated at all (see notes 1, 2
limited to a speed not exceeding 25mph or
and 3).
is incapable by reason of its construction
of exceeding 25mph.
Not fitted as required or operation impaired or not Advise early rectification. IN
capable of being sufficiently illuminated (see notes 2 A tachograph may be fitted in place of a
1, 2 and 3). speedometer to a vehicle not within the
scope of EC regulations.
3 Speedometer fitment does not apply to
Tachograph agricultural motor vehicles driven at not
Where required, a tachograph is not fitted/sealed/ Tachograph defects to be dealt with -
more than 20mph or category T tractors
inoperative (see Notes 2, 4 and 5). under the Transport Act (GVI70 /TE160).
which are not driven at more than 40kph.

4 Tachographs are not required on vehicles

not capable of exceeding 40kph by virtue
of design or the use of a speed limiter.

5 Examiners should be aware that if

recording equipment is fitted there are
situations where no offence is being
committed and therefore no action should
be taken. A person is not liable if it can be
established that it had not been
reasonably practicable for the equipment
to be repaired by an approved workshop
e.g. it had become defective during the
journey. Drivers in these circumstances
are required to keep manual records.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 27
Audible Warning (Horn)
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Horn
1 This inspection item does not apply to:
Horn insecure. Detachment imminent. I • An agricultural vehicle driven at not
more than 20mph.

• Motor vehicles which have a maximum

Horn not working at all, missing or emits a sound - D speed not exceeding 20mph.
likely to be confused with an official siren (note 1).
• A category T tractor unless it is being
Not working properly. Defective advise early rectification. IN
driven at more than 40kph.

Control insecure. Defective advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 28
Driving Controls
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Driving Controls
This section does not apply to the condition of
brake controls IM No:36, 37 and 39 apply.
Any driving control missing/incomplete/fractured/ Control so defective or impeded in its I
damaged/excessively corroded/impeded in its travel that it fails to fulfil its function.
travel/incorrectly positioned/insecure (Specify
component).
Safe operation of vehicle not likely to D
be affected.

Advise early rectification. IN

Clutch pedal anti-slip pad loose/deteriorated. If originally fitted. IN

Engine stop control inoperative - D

(ignition key or stop control in cab).

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Any component forming part of ADAS missing/ Advise early rectification when it is IN
damaged/disconnected/malfunctioning. evident that the system is defective.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 28
Driving Controls
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Condition of Driver’s Area

Driver’s area littered with rubbish/ancillary Liable to interfere with proper control of I
equipment. the vehicle.

But not yet likely to affect the control of IN

the vehicle.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 30
Steering Control
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steering Wheel
1 The maximum permissible “free” play on a
Excessive ‘free’ play at steering wheel. Likely to impair directional control of the I
steering wheel is as follows:
vehicle.
If a point on the rim of the steering wheel
No apparent risk of affecting directional D moves without the road wheels moving for
control of vehicle (see notes 1, 2 and 3). a distance of
 (except on rack and pinion steering) 1/ 5
Steering wheel (hub/rim/spokes) fractured. Failed or failure imminent or jagged I of diameter of steering wheel, e.g.
edges likely to cut drivers hand. 76mm on a 380mm diameter wheel
 (on rack and pinion steering) 1/ 30 of
But no apparent risk to driver or of D diameter, e.g. 13mm on a 380mm
steering wheel failure diameter wheel. Free play of up to 1/8 of
(see notes 4 and 5). diameter, e.g. 48mm on a 380mm
diameter wheel is acceptable where the
steering wheel.
Steering wheel (hub/rim/spokes) insecure. Detached or detachment imminent. I
 is placed forward from rack and
pinion steering, and
No apparent risk of detachment. D
 has a number of joints to the rack.

2 Power steering must be checked with the

Steering wheel loose to column shaft. - I engine running. While the power steering
pump is working but not providing
hydraulic assistance, the steering wheel
Steering wheel retaining device missing (specify - I play is slightly greater than with manual
device). steering systems.

Unsafe modification to steering wheel. - I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 30
Steering Control
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steering Column
3 In some types of steering, e.g. those with
Excessive lift or side movement of steering column. Abnormal movement indicating failure of I
universal joints or flexible couplings, there
component parts.
might be a certain amount of movement
present that is not due to wear.
Abnormal movement D
(see notes 3 and 6). 4 Cracks in the plastic covering of a spoke
do not necessarily indicate that the spoke
Steering column coupling excessively deteriorated/ Failure imminent. I is fractured.
worn/insecure. 5 Jagged edges on the rim of a steering
Early failure unlikely (see notes 3 and 6). D
wheel (e.g. due to cracks in plastic
covering) are a reason for action ONLY if
they are likely to cut the driver’s hand.
Steering wheel/column adjuster defective. Steering wheel/ column cannot be I
secured as required. 6 Some vehicles have flexible top bearings
for the steering column, in which case
Advise early rectification. IN more than average movement is
permissible.
Unsafe modification to steering column. - I
7 It is acceptable for a steering lock
(anti-theft device) to be missing or not
Steering Lock (anti-theft device) See notes 7 & 8 Defective and inadvertently affects safe I working as long as the vehicle has an
operation of steering. engine immobiliser, or a permanently
installed immobilisation device which
Defective - unlikely to affect safe D acts on either the steering, brakes or
operation of steering. the transmission.

Not functioning to prevent vehicle being IN 8 Some electronic steering locks,

driven. generally on vehicles with keyless
ignition systems, will only activate
when the drivers door is opened or
closed.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 33
Speed Limiters
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

THIS IM ITEM DOES NOT APPLY TO 1 If applicable to the vehicle type, date of
AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES. first use and use (international or
domestic) - See Table A.
Speed Limiters 2 Between January 2005 and January 2008
Speed limiter not restricting the vehicle to its legal Evidence of intent to circumvent the I the scope of vehicles requiring speed
maximum (see notes 1, 2 3, 3a, 4, 5 and table A). speed restrictions. limiters has been extended.
3 Examiners will need to gather sufficient
Speed in excess of 10Kph for more than I evidence to show the speed limiter has not
5 minutes (see note 3). become defective during the current
journey, i.e. over speeding of more than 10
Evidence of long standing defect, speed D Kph within any of the previous 7 days.
in excess of 10 Kph for more than 7 days
(see note 3a). 3 (a) Prohibition action should not be taken
if the driver can produce evidence of
speed limiter repair from the last recorded
over speed.
Speed limiter plate missing/defective/showing - D 4 Some speed limiters do not require the
evidence of disturbance. fitting of external tamperproof devices.
Action must only be taken where there is
clear evidence that a device has been
Speed limiter tamper proof device missing/defective/ - D disturbed/removed or is defective.
showing evidence of disturbance. 5 When considering prohibition action for
non compliance within 10kph of the
restricted speed, examiners must
Any interrupter device fitted to the vehicle in - I consider the trace speeds in Table A.
contravention of the requirements. The trace speed in table A must be met
prior to prohibition action being taken.
(pre-digital tachographs excluding
Size of tyres not compatible with calibration Where information is available. D mechanical tachographs).
parameters.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 33
Speed limiters - Table A
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
This applies to all vehicles required to be fitted with a speed limiter
Passenger vehicles with more than 8 passenger seats (Bus)

Vehicle Size (Gross C&U reg 36A Diesel / LPG / Natural Gas Petrol Trace speed not to be
Summary
Design Weight) paragraph Date Stabilised speed not to exceed Date Stabilised speed not to exceed exceeded.

2B & 7 All existing requirement 100 kph existing requirement 100 kph

not exceeding 5000

2C & 7 All existing requirement 100 kph Not Required

2A & 7 All existing requirement 100 kph existing requirement 100 kph

5001 to 7500 January

2C & 7 All existing requirement 100 kph 2008, all Not Required
natural
gas engines require a
2&7 All existing requirement 100 kph at existing requirement 100 kph
100kph or not to
2&7 All existing requirement 100 kph exceed 100kph existing requirement 100 kph
7501 to 10000 depending on age.
30 existing requirement set speed of
2 & 7A All existing requirement 100 kph 100 kph
September 2001

2&7 All existing requirement 100 kph existing requirement 100 kph
100001 >
existing requirement set speed of
2 & 7A All existing requirement 100 kph
100 kph

Passenger vehicles with more than 16 passenger seats (Coach)

Vehicle Size (Gross C&U reg 36A Diesel / LPG / Natural Gas Summary Petrol Trace speed not to be
Design Weight) paragraph Date Stabilised speed not to exceed Date Stabilised speed not to exceed
exceeded.

existing requirement set speed at existing requirement set speed at

7501 > 1&6 All
100 kph 112 kph

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 33
Speed limiters - Table A
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
This applies to all vehicles required to be fitted with a speed limiter
Goods

Vehicle Size (Gross C&U reg 36A Diesel / LPG / Natural Gas Petrol Trace speed not to be
Summary
Design Weight) paragraph Date Stabilised speed not to exceed Date Stabilised speed not to exceed exceeded.
1A & 9 All existing requirement 90 kph existing requirement 90 kph

3501 to 7500
1B & 9 All existing requirement 90 kph Not Required
As of 1 January 2008,
all vehicles with
1A & 9 All existing requirement 90 kph diesel/LPG or natural existing requirement 90 kph
gas engines requires
a speed limiter set at
7501 to 12000 1B & 8 All existing requirement 90 kph 90kph or not to existing requirement 90 kph
exceed 90kph
depending on age.
existing requirement 90 kph
1&8 All existing requirement 90 kph Except 7501 - 12000
kgs vehicles
registered between 1
2&9 All existing requirement 90 kph August 1992 and 30 existing requirement 90 kph
September 2001
31 which are set to
12001 > 2&9 December 2004 All existing requirement 90 kph 96.5kph existing requirement 90 kph
(Euro III or later engine)

existing requirement 90 kph

2&9 All existing requirement 90 kph

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 34
Pressure/Vacuum Warning and Build Up
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Air/Vacuum Build Up
1 If the pressure gauge has no warning
Air/Vacuum build up slow. Excessively slow, If the warning device I
mark, take the 3.1kg/ sq. cm (45
fails to cease operating or gauge does
psi/3bar/310kPa) mark as the warning
not reach 3.1kg/sq. cm
mark.
(45psi/3bar/310kPa) within 9 minutes for
vehicle/trailer/semi trailer combinations 2 If the vacuum gauge has no warning mark,
(6 minutes for rigid vehicles and take the 25 to 30cm Hg mark as the
uncoupled tractor units) or 25cm to 30cm warning mark.
vacuum in 2 minutes (see notes 1, 2 and 3 These times are examples only and might
3). vary with vehicle type.
Slow, If the warning device fails to cease D 4 These defects apply only to continuous
operating or gauge does not reach flow hydraulic braking systems.
3.1kg/sq. cm (45psi/3bar/310kPa) within
6 minutes for vehicle/trailer/semi trailer
combinations (3 minutes for rigid
vehicles and uncoupled tractor units) or
25cm to 30cm vacuum in 1 minute (see
notes 1, 2 and 3).

Hydraulic Build Up
Hydraulic pressure build up slow. If warning device fails to cease operating I
within 6 minutes (see note 4).

If warning device fails to cease operating D

within 4 minutes (see note 4).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 34
Pressure/Vacuum Warning and Build Up
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Air/Vacuum Assistance
5 Applies (with the exception of the gauge
Insufficient reserve of air/vacuum. Insufficient pressure or vacuum to give I
which is not normally fitted) to continuous
assistance for two or more applications
flow hydraulic braking systems.
of the brakes after the warning device
has operated (see notes 1 and 2). 6 This inspection applies to all vehicles,
except those with an unladen weight of
Insufficient pressure or vacuum to give D less than 3050kg where the vacuum
assistance for four or more applications reservoir is coupled direct to the engine
of the brakes after the warning device induction manifold. These vehicles do not
has operated (see notes 1 and 2). require a pressure/vacuum warning
device. Certain type approved vehicles
(e.g. Mercedes Benz 515, 609, 612, 614
Warning Systems and 709, Iveco Daily) have been
Warning gauge/flag/light/missing/not functioning/not Where only one such device is fitted I manufactured without a warning device.
visible. (See notes 6 and 7). The absence of such a device in these
cases is not a defect.
Other device available to the driver. IN 7 Vehicles used from 1 April 1983 can be
fitted with either a visual warning device or
an audible warning device. If both are
Warning gauge not illuminated. Function not readily visible during the IN fitted only one need work. Vehicles first
hours of darkness (see notes 6 and 7). used before 1 April 1983 must be fitted
with a visual warning device. If an audible
warning device is also fitted this is
Warning buzzer inoperative. (See notes 5, 6 and 7). IN considered to be an addition to the
mandatory requirement.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 36
Hand Lever Operating Mechanical and Electronic Parking Brakes
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Controls
1 This means that, when the brake is fully
Hand brake lever/control fractured/incomplete/ Fails to fulfil its function. I
applied, there is not sufficient further
seized/insecure.
movement of the lever because it is at the
Failure imminent. I
end of its working travel on the ratchet.
Immediate failure unlikely or pivot too D
tight.

Hand brake lever/control travel impeded/cannot be Cannot be operated satisfactorily. I

readily operated.
And cannot be operated with complete D
freedom.

Excessive side play in hand brake lever/ control. Failure imminent or could inadvertently I
disengage.

Excessive wear or play. D

Insufficient reserve travel on hand brake lever/ Brake efficiency impaired. I

control (see note 1).
Brake efficiency not impaired. D

Hand brake lever/control pawl and/or ratchet worn. Lever cannot be set or could I
inadvertently disengage.

But no apparent risk of early failure. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 36
Hand Lever Operating Mechanical and Electronic Parking Brakes
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

2 A locking device might not be obvious from

Any retaining/locking device missing/insecure or Retaining device missing or detached. I
a visual examination.
detached (specify component).
Retaining device insecure or locking D 3 An electronic parking brake (EPB)
device missing or insecure (see note 2). although applied electronically, must be
maintained in operation by direct
mechanical means. This mechanism may
Excessive movement of lever. Indicating incorrect adjustment. D be within the brake calliper or within the
motor/gear assembly so cannot be readily
seen.
Brake control not releasing correctly. Advise early rectification. IN

Electronic parking brake warning light indicates

a malfunction
Electronic park brake warning light illuminated Brake efficiency impaired. I
indicating a fault (see note 3).
Warning light illuminated indicating a D
fault.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 37
Service Brake Pedal
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Controls
1 Not applicable to power operated braking
Foot brake pedal fractured/incomplete/insecure/ Fails to fulfil its function. I
systems provided the foot valve is fully
pivot excessively worn.
open before the pedal is fully depressed.
Failure imminent. I
2 The provision of a pedal rubber which is
Excessive wear or play. D itself of an anti-slip material is not to be
regarded as defective if its design pattern
Foot brake pedal travel impeded/cannot be readily Cannot be operated satisfactorily. I is worn smooth.
operated.
Pivot too tight. D

Insufficient reserve travel on foot brake pedal Brake efficiency impaired. I

(see note 1).
Brake efficiency not yet impaired. D

Foot brake pedal anti-slip provision missing/loose/ Pad about to become detached or level D
deteriorated/worn smooth (see note 2). of grip offered affected.

Grip offered unaffected. IN

Foot brake pedal not releasing correctly. Functionality affected. D

Functionality not affected. IN

Foot brake pedal capable of applying each side of And the assembly is unlocked. I
the vehicle’s brakes independently.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 38
Service Brake Operation
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Complete braking system

1 These defects might not apply to vehicles
Leakage of air or antifreeze. Braking performance affected. I
equipped with full air/vacuum or
continuous flow hydraulic braking systems.
Minor leak (e.g. from air antifreeze IN
system). 2 Regulations require that an anti-lock
warning light is fitted, it may be fitted on
Controls the drawing vehicle in the case of a semi-
Foot brake pedal “spongy” indicating a fault in the Brake efficiency impaired. I trailer. All EBS equipped vehicles only
brake system (see note 1). need to cycle any system modulators at
No indication of brake efficiency being D least once on energising (ignition on) to
impaired. signal correct ABS operation.
3 (a) The anti-lock light operating
sequences are complex. If Examiners are
Foot brake pedal “creeps” to floor (see note 1). - I in doubt about the existence of a defect
and the sequence plate is missing, then
providing the warning light is operating, the
Air/vacuum assistance not working. Brake efficiency impaired. I issue of an Inspection Notice is the
appropriate course of action.
But no apparent risk of braking efficiency D
being impaired. (b) Where a vehicle displays a yellow ABS
MIL lamp and there is evidence the ABS
Leaks system operated correctly at the beginning
Indication of leakage in full air/vacuum/continuous Leakage such that pressure or vacuum
I of the current journey (24 hour period), or
flow hydraulic brake systems. cannot be sustained with engine running a journey directly to a place where the
just above idling speed. ABS is to undergo repair, the issue of an
inspection notice would be the appropriate
Hose, pipe or connection leaking D course of action.
causing noticeable drop in pressure or
audible leak (air brake systems).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 38
Service Brake Operation
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Electronic Braking Systems (EBS)

4 All ABS and EBS equipped vehicles and
(see notes 2, 3a, 3b, 4 and 5).
trailers approved to UN or EU
EBS/ABS warning inoperative or indicates the MIL inoperative or any red MIL I requirements must display a warning light
existence of a fault. illuminated
to indicate to the driver the existence of a
fault in the system. This light or generic
No available evidence of EBS function I vehicle systems light is required to
(see note 4).
illuminate when the system is energised
and will extinguish on satisfactory
Yellow MIL illuminated (see note 3b). D completion of the static test. Some
illuminate very briefly and may be missed,
Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) Advise early rectification. IN particularly in bright lighting conditions. It
(see notes 2, 3a, 3b, 4 and 6).
may be necessary to wait as much as 30
Anti-lock brake warning light sequence inoperative ABS Warning light inoperative or I seconds, or it may be necessary to move
or indicates a fault. indicates a fault and the vehicle/trailer
the vehicle before re-testing to allow the
is not equipped with load sensing in
system to re-set.
addition to ABS.
5 An EBS pictogram from the system
ABS warning light inoperative or D manufacture is a reliable indicator that EBS
indicates a fault and the vehicle/trailer is fitted.
is equipped with load sensing in A five pin ISO7638 plug on the headboard
6
addition to ABS. is reliable evidence that a trailer is not EBS
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) equipped.
Any component forming part of an ESC system Such that the ESC system is rendered D
missing/damaged/disconnected/malfunctioning. inoperative and no evidence of ESC MIL must be a separate lamp. One
7
operation. lamp covers a combination. ESC MIL
maybe illuminated if the driver has
ESC warning light inoperative or indicates the ESC MIL inoperative or indicates the D manually switched off the system, this will
existence of a fault. (See note 7). existence of a fault. not result in prohibition action.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 39
Hand Operated Brake Control Valve
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Controls
Brake hand valve fractured/damaged/insecure/lever If not functional. I
loose.
But no apparent risk of early failure. D

Brake hand control valve cannot be moved over its - I

original full travel or cannot be retained in the on or
off positions.

Parking brake hand valve lever cannot be set. - I

Indication of leakage in full air/vacuum/continuous Leakage such that pressure or vacuum I

flow hydraulic brake systems. cannot be sustained (engine fast idling).

Pressure or vacuum can be sustained D

(engine fast idling).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 41
Condition of Chassis
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Chassis and Attachments

1 For components normally fixed to the
chassis e.g. fuel tanks, brake reservoirs
Chassis main member/cross member/outrigger/ Likely to affect control of the vehicle, safe I
etc… see other sections.
strengthening plate/fastening severely corroded/ carriage of load or detachment of
seriously deformed/fractured/ insecure/missing/ component imminent 2 This item includes the condition of any
welding breaking away. (see notes 1 and 2). flitch plates that are fitted.

Insufficient strength of parts. I

Excessive corrosion which affects the D

rigidity of the assembly.

Slight fracture, deformation or insecurity D

of any side or cross-member or
strengthening plate/fastening.

Advise early rectification. IN

Integral bodied vehicle panels forming part of the Likely to affect control of the vehicle, safe I
overall strength of the vehicle of unsuitable type with carriage of load or detachment of
inappropriate fixings/insecure. component imminent.

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 42
Electrical Wiring and Equipment
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Battery Condition (see note 4) 1 PSV’s only.

Battery insecure. Likely to fall from vehicle or displacement I
2 Action to be taken if lights don’t work
constitutes a fire risk.
properly is shown in IM’s 63 and 66.
Advise early rectification. IN
3 Care needs to be taken when inspecting
high voltage systems. High voltage wiring
Battery leaking. is colour coded orange.
Electrolyte entering passenger I
compartment of a PSV or likely to cause 4 Where it is not possible to inspect batteries
failure of items which could affect vehicle for condition and leaks every effort should
safety. be made to inspect the area where
batteries are installed to confirm there are
Electrolyte leaking. D
no signs of leaks.
Advise early rectification. IN
5 Hybrid electrical vehicles (HEVs),
Electrical vehicles (EVs) only.
Battery container not vented. (See note 1). D

Battery cell closure insecure/missing. Electrolyte entering passenger I

compartment of a PSV or likely to cause
failure of items which could affect vehicle
safety.
Fumes entering passenger compartment. I
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 42
Electrical Wiring and Equipment
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Switchgear and Wiring (see note 3)

Wiring deteriorated/insecure/inadequately insulated/ Constitutes a fire risk. I
insulation is or will become ineffective due to
Extremely deteriorated (relevant parts for I
chafing or heat.
braking, steering) steering or braking
likely to be affected.
Fixings loose, touching sharp edges, D
connectors likely to be disconnected.

Heavily deteriorated/likely to short circuit. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Lighting switch insecure/malfunctioning. Switch does not operate correctly and D

function impaired.
Rear position lamps and side marker D
lamps can be switched off when
headlamps are on.
If lights work (see note 2). IN

Power train Equipment (see note 5)

Check all power train equipment for security and Likely to fall from vehicle or presenting a I
risk of fire or injury. risk of fire or injury.
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 43
Engine and Transmission
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Engine/Transmission Security (see note 1)

1 Powertrain units used on Hybrid Electrical
Vehicles (HEV) and Electrical Vehicles
Engine or transmission mounting/sub frame I
(EV) should be treated as an engine or
fractured/deteriorated/insecure.
transmission.
No longer capable of performing its D
function of location and support.

Early detachment unlikely, attention IN

required.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 44
Oil and Waste Leaks
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Oil and Waste Leaks

1 When considering several leaks, due
Oil/Waste leaking onto road surface (specify Continuous flow or constitutes a health/ I regard must be given to the cumulative
location on vehicle). fire risk.
effect, which could justify prohibition
action.
Dripping giving rise to a patch in excess D
of 75mm diameter in 5 minutes (see note 2 “Waste” includes effluent from toilets and
1 and 2). other ancillary devices but does not
include water from sinks or hand wash
Dripping, less than 75mm patch in 5 IN basins.
minutes.

Oil or waste contaminating ... (specify component/ Constitutes a health/fire risk. I

material) (see note 2).
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 45
Fuel Tanks and Systems
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Fuel Tanks and Systems Including heating and

1 A missing or ineffective fuel cap and or
cooling fuel tank and systems
sealing arrangement is considered
sufficient evidence to ‘permit’ fuel spillage
and will justify prohibition action.
Fuel tank and/or mountings insecure. Detachment imminent. I
2 Fabricated and “Emergency” caps are
Creating a particular risk of fire. I acceptable providing they make a positive
seal. Use of rags, plastic bags etc… in
Significantly insecure. D place of a fuel cap must be regarded as a
defect.
Early detachment unlikely. IN 3 Before justifying prohibition action care
should be taken to ensure there are no
Fuel tank filler cap and/or sealing arrangement Such as to permit fuel spillage and cause I other sealing mechanisms in the filler neck
missing/defective (see note 1, 2 and 3). a hazard to the vehicle and/or other road or tank, which prevents the spillage of fuel.
users.
4 A fuel leak caused by a defect,
Defective requires rectification. D contaminating the road surface will be
considered a hazard to other road users
Fuel leakage from ... (specify source) (see note 4). Continuous fuel leak or a leak I and will justify prohibition action.
constituting a hazard to other road users
or PSV passengers or likely to create a
fire hazard.

Defective requires rectification. D

Fuel pipe damaged/chafed/insecure. Creating a particular risk of fire. I

Likely to fracture or leak. D

Leakage unlikely. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 45
Fuel Tanks and Systems
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Fire risk due to fuel tank or exhaust not properly - I

shielded or engine compartment condition.

LPG/CNG/LNG or hydrogen system defective. Any part of the system clearly defective I
constituting a clear risk to road safety.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 46
Exhaust Systems and Nuisance
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Exhaust Systems (see note 2 and 3)

1 When considering a fire hazard, the nature
of the load carried could make more
Exhaust system incomplete/insecure/leaking. Fumes likely to enter vehicle interior and I
lenient action appropriate.
danger to health of occupants or
detachment imminent or likely to create a 2 The term ‘exhaust system’ in this context
fire hazard (see note 1). includes the exhaust arrangements of
combustion heaters, particulate traps and
Significant deterioration or no immediate D catalysts.
danger to health of occupants. 3 Inspection Notice action should be taken in
the case of a tail pipe missing, corroded or
Unlikely to cause danger or be a fire risk. IN holed and unlikely to detach, does not
cause a fire hazard or danger by allowing
Leak from exhaust system likely to cause damage Brake or fuel pipe likely to fail. I fumes to enter the passenger or driver
to brake or fuel lines. compartment.
Exhaust silencer holed, missing or modified. Does not reduce the noise emitted to a D
reasonable level.

Exhaust system contaminated by grease or oil etc. Constitutes a fire risk or shield likely to I
Grease shields inadequate/missing/insecure. detach.

Advise early rectification. IN

Noise suppression system defective

Any part of the noise suppression system insecure, Insecure and detachment imminent. I
damaged, incorrectly fitted, missing or obviously
modified in a way that adversely affects the noise Loose early detachment not likely, D
levels. missing, incorrectly fitted, damaged or
obviously modified in a way that
adversely affects noise levels.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 48
Suspension
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Suspension Location NOTE: AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES

A suspension anchor bracket insecure/fractured or Detachment or failure imminent. I
 Driven at not more than 20 Mph, and
otherwise defective.
Fractured or relative movement between D  Weighing no more than 4070Kg unladen
bracket and chassis. weight
Any one nut, bolt or rivet missing/ IN ARE NOT REQUIRED TO HAVE A
insecure (see note 1). SUSPENSION SYSTEM.
A suspension shackle bracket insecure/fractured or Detachment or failure imminent. I
otherwise defective. 1 When some types of suspension
Slight movement between bracket and IN attachment bracket are fitted, there could
chassis or any one nut, bolt or rivet be more holes in the bracket than holes in
missing/ insecure (see note 1). the chassis. This would not be a reason for
action.
Suspension holding down bolts/nuts insecure/ Axle moving relative to suspension unit I
missing. Saddle fractured. (see note 3). 2 When rubber suspension retainers are
fitted and/ or bonded composite bushes
No movement of axle evident. D and/ or mountings, these must be in such
a condition as to adequately locate the
Sub-frame insecure to chassis or body, fractured or Detachment or failure imminent. I
suspension unit.
otherwise defective.
Immediate detachment or failure unlikely. D 3 Examiners will need to take into account
the method of axle location and whether
A suspension anchor/shackle pin missing/sheared - I
the movement affects the directional
(see note 4).
control of the vehicle.
A suspension anchor/shackle pin and or bush Diametric clearance in excess of one I 4 Also applicable to the pins and bushes
excessively worn (see notes 4 and 4a). third diameter of pin. locating independent suspension arms/
balance beam and linkage pivots.
Clearly worn in excess of the annual test D
standard.
IN
Within annual test standard.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 48
Suspension
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

A suspension retaining rubber missing/deteriorated Suspension unit detachment imminent. I

4 (a) The maximum permissible wear in a
(see note 2).
pin and/or bush is 2mm for a 12mm
Excessive relative movement between D
diameter pin and 1/ 8th of the diameter for
suspension unit and bracket.
larger assemblies. If the degree of wear
cannot be confirmed by measurement,
A suspension anchor/ shackle pin insecure in its Pin displaced. I
advisory action on an Inspection Notice
bracket (see note 4).
will be appropriate.
Significantly insecure. D
5 Delayed action only where a slipper is
Advise early rectification. IN worn to the extent that it could, at the time
of the inspection, clearly affect the
A suspension anchor/shackle pin locking device Missing or ineffective. I movement or correct location of the road
missing/ ineffective/insecurely fitted (see note 4). spring or has allowed the spring leaf to
Insecurely fitted. D damage the chassis.
6 The term “Bonded Suspension” does not
A suspension slipper bracket excessively worn/ Spring displaced from slipper bracket. I include bump stops.
fractured/ not securely fixed or rebound pin missing.
No evidence spring displacement (see D (a) Some manufacturers of HGVs with air
note 5). suspension have elected to fit heavy duty
shock absorbers which also fulfil the
Radius arm or linkage bracket insecure or otherwise Detachment or failure imminent. I purpose of check straps. Some of these
defective. vehicles will have the brackets and
But no apparent risk of failure or D mounting points for check straps. Action
detachment imminent. only if there is evidence of check straps
having been fitted and are missing.
Radius arm or linkage bracket fractured/displaced/ Fracture, displacement or distortion I (b) Superficial damage should be ignored.
distorted. adversely affecting directional control. ‘Damage’ means the cord structure is
damaged.
No evidence of directional control being D
affected. Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 48
Suspension
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Suspension Units and Location

7 Action here only if the stability of the
A suspension unit weak/insecure. Bodywork fouling (or likely to foul road I
vehicle is adversely affected.
wheels if vehicle were laden) or seriously
affecting the vehicle’s stability/ control or 8 The significance of defective shock
detachment imminent. absorbers will vary according to the
suspension type. Prohibition action will be
Advise early rectification. IN appropriate only when it is clear that the
handling of the vehicle will be severely
A suspension unit incorrectly fitted. Directional or braking control affected or I affected. e.g. in the case of multi-leaf steel
likely to be affected. springs the effect of a missing shock
absorber will be less significant than with
Advise early rectification. IN other road spring types.
9 Only where originally required/fitted.
A suspension component displaced/insecure/ Control of vehicle affected, likely to be I
otherwise defective. 10 A fractured and/or repaired air bag
or component likely to become pedestal if performing satisfactorily and not
detached. damaging the air bag is not a deficiency.

11 Suspension system deflated or significantly

Advise early rectification. IN
above normal ride height
Leaf Suspension Main leaf fractured/missing or more than I
Spring leaf fractured/defective/missing/damaged. half of the intermediate leaves broken.

Insecure spring leaf, likely to fall away I

from vehicle.

Insufficient clearance to other vehicle I

parts; spring system inoperative.

Intermediate leaf missing or damaged. D

Defective requires rectification. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 48
Suspension
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Spring clips loose/missing/broken. - IN

Spring centre bolt broken/missing. - I

Coil Spring Suspension

Coil Spring fractured/damaged or missing. Detachment imminent/missing/ I
damaged safe control of vehicle likely to
be affected.

Safe control of vehicle unlikely to be D

affected.

Torsion Bar Suspension Fractured/damaged, displacement or I

Torsion bar fractured/distorted/damaged/ distortion adversely affecting directional
displaced. control.

Defective requires rectification. D

Bonded Suspension I
Bonded suspension unit failed/deteriorated/
damaged (see note 6).
Defective requires rectification. D

Air or Fluid Suspension

Suspension unit damaged/leaking or deflated Damage obvious and failure imminent I
(specify component). But no apparent adverse affect on D
vehicle control.

Adversely affecting stability/control or I

Complete suspension system malfunction
likely to cause a danger
(See note 11). D
Appears unlikely to affect stability/
control or unlikely to cause a danger

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 48
Suspension
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Air/fluid suspension unit or fluid accumulator fouling Damage obvious and failure imminent. I
or otherwise defective (see note 6b).
But early failure appears unlikely. IN

Levelling valve inoperative/excessively worn/ I

damaged/missing/leaking/not performing its
function.
But appears unlikely to affect vehicle D
stability/control.

Air suspension, any component damaged, modified Functioning of system seriously affected. I
or deteriorated in a way that adversely affects the
functioning of the system.
Functioning of system not seriously D
affected.

Load levelling valve linkage detached or failure Adversely affecting stability/control. I

imminent.

Linkage defective or deteriorated. Stability/control unaffected. IN

Suspension piping insecure/chafing/corroded/ Damage obvious and failure imminent. I

excessively damaged.
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 48
Suspension
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Air suspension pedestal excessively corroded/ Failure imminent. I

damaged distorted or incomplete (see note 10).
Obviously defective but immediate failure D
unlikely.

Check strap defective. Missing or failure likely (see note 6a) D

Defective advise early rectification. IN

All suspension types - I

Unsafe modification.

Anti-roll bars
Anti-roll bar, pivot, linkage or mounting missing/ Missing, insecure, fractured, I
insecure/fractured/malfunctioning. malfunctioning detachment imminent or
likely to affect steering.

Worn but unlikely to affect the steering. IN

An anti-roll bar missing. If fitted as standard (see note 7). I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 48
Suspension
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Shock Absorbers
A shock absorber, pivot, linkage or mounting Missing, detachment imminent and I
missing/insecure/fractured/malfunctioning/damaged likely to affect steering (see note 9).
(see note 8).
Missing but not likely to affect steering. D

Significant movement. D

Shock absorber leaking. Showing signs of severe leakage or D

malfunction.

Advise early rectification. IN

Suspension Bushes
Suspension bush worn/deteriorated. To the extent that it is likely to affect I
steering or detachment is likely.

Worn to excess. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Suspension Joints
Excessive wear in suspension ball joint. Detachment or failure imminent. I

No apparent danger of detachment or D

failure.

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 48
Suspension
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Suspension joint dust covers

Dust cover. Missing or severely deteriorated so as to D

no longer prevent the ingress of dirt.

Deteriorated. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 53
Axles, Stub Axles and Wheel Bearings
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Stub Axles and Wheel Bearings (See Note 2)

1 As a general guide, the lift in a stub axle
Excessive wear of king pins and/or bushes or swivel Likely to affect steering or fail I
would normally be considered excessive if
joints. prematurely.
greater than 1.6mm.
Defective requires rectification. D 2 During roadside checks, it is not normally
possible to raise the wheels of a vehicle off
Excessive free play in wheel bearings. Likely to collapse. I the ground.

Play in excess of vehicle manufacturer’s D

recommendations.

Wheel bearing too tight, jammed. Danger of overheating or collapse. I

No evidence of overheating. D

Excessive lift in stub axle or at swivel joint. Evidence of collapse of bearings or loss I
of shims.

Defective requires rectification (note 1). D

King pin loose in axle beam or swivel joint Pin displaced or displacement likely. I
excessively worn or insecure.
Defective requires rectification. D

King pin or swivel joint retaining device missing/ Retaining device missing or detached. I
insecure.
Retaining device insecure. D

Axle or stub axle cracked/deformed. - I

Unsafe modification to axle or stub axle. - I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 54
Steering Mechanism
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Unsafe modification to any steering component - I
(see note 4). 1 During roadside checks, it is not normally
Steering Box/Rack possible to raise the wheels off the ground.
Steering stiff or rough in operation (see note 1). Restricting operation. I 2 This item applies only to vehicles fitted
with gaiters as original equipment.
Obvious roughness. D
3 Some steering joints are spring loaded.
Steering box noisy/knocking. - IN The designed amount of movement must
not be confused with abnormal movement.
Steering box sector shaft cracked, twisted or worn. Shaft cracked, visibly twisted or worn to I 4 Includes a steering component repaired by
extent that functionality is affected. welding or showing signs of excessive
heat having been applied and which
Functionality not affected. D obviously affects the steering control.
Excessive lift/end float/wear/movement on sector Affecting functionality. I 5 Power steering components must be
shaft, bushes or splines. checked with the engine running.
Functionality not affected. D Inspection will include power steering drive
mechanisms.
Excessive wear in steering rack. - D 6 If power steering equipment is optional
and has been removed with no adverse
Steering box/rack/gear fractured/insecure/damaged. Any restriction/failure or detachment I effect on the steering, no action must be
imminent. taken.
No apparent restriction or risk of early D 7 Checks are confined to transparent
failure/detachment. reservoirs or where an indicator is fitted;
reservoir caps should not be removed.
Steering gear leaking. Leaking forming drops or continuous drip I

Defective requires rectification. D

Rack gaiter split/damaged/displaced or missing - D

(see note 2).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 54
Steering Mechanism
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steering Linkage

Steering drop arm insecure. If movement is such that failure is likely. I

Excessive abnormal movement. D

Steering ball pin insecure. Any insecurity. I

Steering ball pin grooved. Diameter substantially reduced. I

Defective requires rectification. D

Track rod/drag link insecure. I

Slight movement. D

Excessive movement in steering joint (see note 3). If joint in danger of separation. I

No apparent danger of joint separation. D

Slight movement in steering joint. Advise early rectification. IN

Steering ball joint dust cover. Missing or severely deteriorated so as to D

no longer prevent the ingress of dirt.

Deteriorated or damaged. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 54
Steering Mechanism
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steering relay arm pivot excessively worn. Failure imminent. I

No apparent risk of imminent failure. D

Steering linkage misaligned. Steering function impaired. I

Steering function not impaired. D

Steering relay arm pivot housing/bracket fractured/ Failure or detachment imminent. I

insecure.
No apparent risk of imminent failure or D
detachment.

Steering arm insecure. Detachment imminent. I

No apparent risk of imminent detachment D

Steering component fractured/ deformed or Failure imminent. I

otherwise defective (specify component).
No apparent risk of early failure. D

Steering component fouling, or road wheels/tyres Steering function impaired. I

restricted in travel (specify component).
No evidence of steering function being D
impaired.

Steering retaining/locking device missing/insecure. Retaining device missing or ineffective. I

Retaining device insecure or any locking D

device missing or insecure.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 54
Steering Mechanism
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Lock stop or other steering component missing/ Likely to become detached. I

insecure.
Defective requires rectification. D

Power Steering (see note 5)

Pump insecure or it’s drive system missing or Failure or detachment imminent. I

defective.
No apparent risk of early failure or D
detachment.

Power steering malfunctioning/inoperative or Disconnected, inoperative or failure I

otherwise defective. imminent (see note 6).

Defective or malfunctioning with no D

immediate adverse effects.

Power steering ram, anchor bracket or pump Failure or detachment imminent. I

mounting fractured/insecure or otherwise defective.
No apparent risk of early failure or early D
detachment.

Insufficient power steering fluid (see note 7). No fluid visible. I

Below minimum mark. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 54
Steering Mechanism
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Power steering ram fluid pipes damaged or If steering function impaired or failure I
excessively corroded. imminent.

Defective requires rectification. D

Power steering pipes fouling (Specify component Pipes damaged and likely to fail. I
being fouled).
Advise early rectification. IN

Fluid/air leakage from power steering (specify Fluid/air leaking continuously, failure of I
component). power steering imminent.

Contamination of materials so as to I
constitute a risk of fire.

Positive fluid leak. D

Damp or oil misting. IN

Power steering ram joint excessively worn/spring If joint in danger of separation, or I

weak/spring broken. detachment of ram imminent.

No apparent risk of joint separation or D

detachment of ram.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 54
Steering Mechanism
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Electronic Power Steering (EPS)

Malfunctioning/disconnected/inoperative. Malfunctioning, disconnected, power I

assistance not working or failure
imminent (see note 5).

Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) D

indicates any kind of system failure.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 57
Transmission
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Propeller Shafts & Drive Shafts I

Propeller shaft damaged. 1 Prohibition action for excessive wear of
universal joints is only justified when
Other significant damage. D radial movement indicates that needle
roller bearings are missing from one or
Early failure unlikely. IN more cups.

Universal joint or transmission chains/belts Failure or detachment likely. I

excessively worn/flange cracked or insecure on the
propeller shaft (see note 1). Significantly defective. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Deteriorated flexible coupling. Detachment imminent. I

Significantly defective but detachment D
not likely.

Propeller shaft flange bolts loose/missing. Shaft likely to become detached. I

Other significant insecurity. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Unsafe modification. - I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 57
Transmission
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Propeller shaft carrier bearing badly worn/damaged/ Failed or failure imminent. I

mounting loose.
Significantly defective. D

Attention required. IN

Dust cover deteriorated, missing or fractured. Missing or severely deteriorated so as to D

no longer prevent the ingress of dirt.

Deteriorated. IN

Front Wheel Drive Shafts

CV joint and or shaft coupling excessively worn. CV Bearings collapsed or excessively worn, I
gaiter split, missing or insecure. splines excessively worn or coupling/joint

Significantly deteriorated component. D

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 58
Additional Braking Devices (including retarders)
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Additional Braking Devices
(including retarders) 1 Where an exhaust brake operating
Device not working (see note 1). - D cylinder and lever are completely
removed, the housing containing the
Advise early rectification. IN butterfly may be retained with the butterfly
fixed in the open position.
2 Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) and
Device missing. Where legally required. D Electric Vehicles (EVs) where the electric
motor(s) acts as a regenerative brake to
Advise early rectification. IN comply with the additional braking
requirements the unit(s) should be
inspected as if it was an additional braking
device. This will be marked on the
Retarder, connectors or mountings insecure. Likely to become detached. I technical record.
Functionality of device affected. D

Connectors or mountings insecure. IN

Heat shield missing/defective where required. - D

Retarder contaminated with oil/with inadequate Constitutes a fire hazard. I

clearance from other components.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 58
Additional Braking Devices (including retarders)
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Oil leakage from retarder.

Continuous leak. I

Leakage in excess of 75mm diameter D

patch in 5 minutes.

Advise early rectification. IN

Retarder wiring chafed/insecure. Fire hazard. I

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Mechanical Components
1 A locking device:
Any brake component or device excessively worn/ Affecting brake performance. I
insecure/corroded/fractured/reduced in diameter/  Might not be obvious from a visual
number of strands reduced/damaged/knotted/ examination
displaced/defective/seized (specify component). Serious reduction of strength/excessively D
 Might not be mandatory
worn or displaced or insecure or
damaged or not functioning as intended 2 Automatic slack adjusters must be fitted to
or movement restricted. HGV and PSV motor vehicles first used
from 1 April 1995 and trailers
manufactured from 1 April 1995.
Any retaining/ locking device missing/insecure Retaining device missing or detached. I Automatic brake slack adjusters do not
(specify component). need to be fitted to trailers licensed in
Retaining device insecure or locking D Ireland before 1 June 2011.
device missing or insecure (see note 1). As a guide when automatic slack
3
adjusters are fitted the total travel should
Brake backplate/dust cover insecure. I not exceed 2/3rd of the total actuator
travel. Movement obviously in excess of
this, particularly if unequal across an axle,
Defective requires rectification. D can be taken as evidence that the adjuster
is inoperative. This guidance does not
Abnormal movement of levers indicating Brake efficiency impaired. I apply to arrangements, particularly disc
maladjustment (see notes 3 and 4). brakes, where the adjustment may take
No apparent loss of brake efficiency. D place within the caliper or elsewhere and
‘Automatic Slack Adjusters’ are not fitted.
Automatic brake slack adjuster and/or component Brake efficiency impaired. I
missing/disconnected/insecure/damaged/defective/ 4 All automatic slack adjusters must return
incorrectly installed or replaced (see notes 2, 3, 4 No apparent loss of brake efficiency. D fully on release of the brakes. If they do
and 5). not, they will not be sensing the correct
state of adjustment and therefore be
incapable as operating as intended.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

5 Particular attention should be paid to the

Actuator/Brake Cylinder Travel control arm and anchor bracket if so
Excess or restricted travel of brake actuator or Brake efficiency impaired (see note 6). I equipped. These will fracture and/or
cylinder. detach if not correctly fitted.
Excess amount of travel (see note 7). D
6 When immediate action is taken this must
be reinforced with evidence that the
Advise early rectification. IN
efficiency is impaired, e.g. brake test
results or, in the case of adjustment,
Brake Actuators
clearly no reserve travel.
Air/vacuum actuator missing/insecure/damaged/ Missing/Inoperative/insecure/cracked or I
fractured/excessively corroded/incorrectly fitted. failure imminent and affecting brake 7 Excess travel means when there is too
performance. little reserve travel left in the actuator
which clearly demonstrates that the point
Actuator excessively corroded. D at which adjustment was necessary has
been exceeded.
No apparent risk of failure. D
8 Brake actuators or servos in which the
travel cannot be visually assessed are
Dust cover missing, deteriorated or damaged. Where fitted as standard. IN
often fitted with a device that indicates the
extent of travel of the piston or
diaphragm.

9 Surface cracks on brake discs and drums

are a normal feature that should be
Loss of air/vacuum. Pressure/vacuum cannot be sustained I ignored.
with the engine running just above idling
speed with brakes either applied or not
applied.
Continued overleaf...
Pressure/vacuum can be sustained with D
engine on “fast Idling” with brakes either
applied or not applied.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake Travel Indicators

10 Brake friction material lining/pad worn to
Brake piston/diaphragm travel indicator missing/ (See note 8). IN
excess is less than 1.5mm thick at any
inoperative.
point, a visual assessment is acceptable
providing the friction material can be seen.
Brake adjustment indicator shows that brake Brake efficiency impaired (see note 9). I Prohibition action should only be taken
adjustment is necessary. where the lining or pad friction material
Advise early rectification. IN thickness can be positively confirmed.
11 Some Public Service Vehicles are
manufactured without ABS but may have
ABS valves fitted as standard. If no action
is taken under IM 38 then the fitment of
Servos these components is not to be considered
Brake servo insecure. Detached or detachment imminent. I a defect.
12 A five pin ISO7638 plug on the
No apparent risk of detachment. D ‘headboard’ is reliable evidence that a
trailer is not EBS equipped.
Brake servo damaged/incorrectly fitted/fractured/ Failed or failure imminent. I 13 A EBS pictogram from the system
excessively corroded. manufacturer is a reliable indicator
No apparent risk of failure. D that EBS is fitted.
14 Acceptable evidence will normally be the
noise made by electro pneumatic valves
Excessive travel of brake servo. Brake efficiency impaired. I as the system goes through its self-check
cycle.
No apparent evidence of brake efficiency IN
being impaired (see note 8).

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Servo losing vacuum. Vacuum cannot be sustained with engine I

15 Vehicles towing trailers, where both are
running above idling speed and brakes
equipped with ISO7638 connectors, must
applied.
have these connected with an appropriate
cable regardless of any alternative method
Vacuum can be sustained with engine D
available on the vehicle to provide power.
running above idling speed and brakes
(This came into effect from 2 May 2002).
applied.
Brake Discs and Drums 16 Minor valves might not be supported.
Brake disc missing/loose/fractured/excessively Brake efficiency impaired (see note 6). I 17 Damp patches around valves are not to be
worn/friction surface excessively corroded/ considered as necessarily indicating a
pitted/deteriorated/scored (see note 9). Missing, failed or failure imminent. I defect.
A fracture extending through the surface D 18 Faults, particularly those concerning the
into the ventilation cavity of a disc. free movement of valves, are often difficult
to positively detect. If examiners are in
Defective requires rectification. D doubt about the existence of a defect the
IN option must be used.
Advise early rectification. IN 19 This inspection applies to all types of load
sensing valves.
Brake drum fractured/missing/excessively Missing or failure imminent. I
worn/insecure/scored (see note 9). 20 Goods vehicles first used after 1 April
Drum fractured through. I 1983 require either a Load Sensing Valve
(LSV) or Anti-Lock Braking (ABS) to
Defective requires rectification. D comply with EEC Braking Directives.
There are exemptions;
Brake lining or pad or friction material missing Missing/detached/detachment imminent I a Public Works Vehicles, examples are
or insecure or excessively worn (See note 10) or metal to metal contact mobile libraries and door to door domestic
refuse collection vehicles.
Friction material lining/pad worn to D
excess / less than 1.5mm Continued overleaf...

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake friction material lining or pad not and braking efficiency impaired I NOTE: “Domestic refuse” vehicles used for the
contacting the drum or disc (See note 6) collection of industrial waste for which a charge
is made are not exempt.
b Vehicles with high unladen weights (where
the ratio between laden and unladen
weight is small) may meet the
requirements without a load sensing valve.
c Trailers with a Gross Vehicle Weight
Severely contaminated brake drum/disc or pad/ Braking efficiency impaired (see note 6). I exceeding 3500kg, manufactured on or
lining material. after 1 October 1982 are required to be
Where contamination is clearly evident D fitted with either a Load Sensing Valve
and likely to affect performance but (LSV) or Anti-lock Braking (ABS) or an
brake test equipment is not available to Electronic Braking System (EBS).
confirm.
d Drawbar trailers with a Gross Vehicle
Advise early rectification. IN Weight exceeding 10000kg and semi
trailers with a total axle summation
exceeding 10000kg manufactured on or
Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) Such that the ABS system is rendered after 1 October 1991 must be fitted with
I
Any component forming part of an anti-lock braking inoperative and the vehicle/trailer is not either ABS or EBS.
system missing/damaged/disconnected (see note equipped with a load sensing valve in e Any trailer with a Gross Vehicle Weight
11, 15 and 20). addition to ABS. exceeding 3500kg manufactured after 1
January 1968 with an EEC two line or two
Such that the ABS system is rendered D plus three line trailer braking system, must
inoperative and the vehicle/trailer is be fitted with either an LSV, ABS or EBS.
equipped with a load sensing valve in In any of the above cases more than one
addition to ABS. system may be fitted .

Disconnected or damaged, likely to be Continued overleaf...

D
affecting the correct function.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Electronic Braking Systems (EBS)

NOTE: A trailer manufactured after 1
(see note 13)
January 1968 and before 1 October 1991
Any component forming part of an electronic braking Such that the EBS system is rendered I
may be exempt the fitment of a Load
system missing/damaged/disconnected. inoperative and no evidence of
Sensing Valve where the unladen weight
operation (see note 14).
Is 60% or greater than the Gross Vehicle
Weight.
Evidence of operation. D
21 Hydraulic brake master and wheel
cylinders may show dampness around the
vent and dust covers due to the brake fluid
ISO7638 cable missing (see note 15). No evidence of operation (see note 14). I acting as a seal lubricant. Care must be
taken to ensure that any dampness is not
Evidence of operation. D confused with seal failure which would
result in a positive leak.

22 “Fully floating” cylinders must not be

Air Systems confused with insecure cylinders.
Air compressor drive belt(s) missing/badly Air build-up seriously affected or failure I
deteriorated/loose. imminent. 23 Missing or illegible LSV plate only applies
to the following vehicles:
No apparent risk of early failure. D PSVs first used after 29/10/2011.
Trucks first used after 29/10/2014.
Brake Caliper Trailers first used after 29/10/2013.
Caliper Insecure or missing. Missing, detached or detachment I 24 Activation of the drain device is not
imminent. required.
No apparent risk of failure. D 25 Brake fluid level and contamination checks
are confined to transparent reservoirs or
where an indicator is fitted; reservoir caps
should not be removed.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Air/Vacuum Reservoir
Brake air/vacuum reservoir damaged/excessively Detachment or failure imminent. I
corroded/insecure/leaking.
Heavily damaged, corroded or leaking. D

Insecure or inadequately mounted. D

Drain device clearly inoperative D

(see note 24).

Slightly damaged or corroded. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake Valves
Brake valve inoperative (specify component) - I

Brake valve insecure (specify component) (see Detached or detachment imminent and I
note 16). or likely to cause leakage at connections.

Insecurity due to weakness or failure of D

supporting structure.

Brake valve damaged/ fractured/excessively Fractured or damaged to an extent that I

corroded (specify component). renders the valve inoperative or failure
imminent.

No apparent risk of early failure. D

Brake valve leaking. Leakage such that pressure or vacuum I

cannot be sustained with engine running
just above idle speed.

Other significant leak. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Load sensing valve missing/seized/bypassed, Clearly not able to function as intended. I

linkage defective/ disconnected / Incorrectly
adjusted Seized or inoperative but ABS D
(see notes 18 and 19). functioning.

Operation unaffected. D

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Load sensing valve data plate. Load sensing valve data plate IN
missing/illegible (see note 23).

Excessive oil/contaminant discharge from brake (see note 17). D

valves.

Brake Pipes and Hoses

Brake pipe excessively chafed/damaged/kinked. Failed or failure imminent. I

Risk of further damage. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Brake pipe corroded. Failed or failure imminent. I

Deeply pitted, weakened. D

Brake pipe inadequately clipped/supported/repaired. Failed or failure imminent. I

Significantly insecure. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Brake pipe fouling (specify component fouled). Failed or failure imminent. I

Risk of further damage. D

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake hose chafed/deteriorated/stretched/bulging/ Failed or failure imminent. I

kinked/twisted/fouling/exposed to excessive heat.
Risk of further damage. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Brake pipe/hose/coupling/connection leaking Any positive hydraulic leak. I
(specify component).
Porous brake hose. D

Leakage such that pressure or vacuum I

cannot be sustained with engine running
just above idle speed.

Pressure or vacuum can be sustained D

with engine on fast idle.
Hydraulic Systems
Brake master cylinder/reservoir/wheel cylinder/ Detached or detachment imminent I
caliper insecure. (see note 22).

No apparent risk of detachment. D

Brake master cylinder/wheel cylinder/caliper Failed or failure imminent. I
damaged/disconnected/missing/incorrectly fitted/
fractured. No apparent risk of failure. D
Brake master cylinder reservoir cap missing. - D

Brake fluid contaminated (see note 25). Obviously contaminated and brake I
function affected.

Obviously contaminated. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 59
Brake Systems and Components
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake fluid leaking from (specify source). Obvious leak leading to brake failure or I
presenting a risk of fire.

Defective requires rectification. D

Brake fluid low level warning lamp indicates a fault/ Reservoir empty. I
absence of or low fluid level in hydraulic brake
fluid reservoir (see note 25). Fluid level significantly below the D
minimum level indication.

Brake fluid warning light illuminated or IN

defective.

Incorrect functioning of brake fluid level IN

warning device.

No apparent risk of failure of brakes. IN

Hydraulic Brake Cylinders
A hydraulic cylinder mounting insecure/cracked/ Detached or detachment/ failure I
fractured/damaged or a stop pin or locking device imminent.
missing or insecure.
No apparent risk of detachment or D
failure.

A hydraulic cylinder leaking. Brake pedal creeps to floor or obvious I

leak (see note 22).

Dust cover Missing/not preventing ingress of dirt. D

Damaged/deteriorated. IN
All Brake systems
Unsafe modification to any brake component. - I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 62
Rear Markings, Conspicuity Markings and Reflectors
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Rear Markings
1 No reflectors are required to be fitted to
Insecure, defective, damaged, partially or Detachment imminent. I
vehicles not fitted with front or rear position
completely missing, incorrectly located or not clearly
lamps. No side reflectors are required on
visible from the rear.
buses.
Missing and / or likely to prevent width or D
presence of the vehicle being indicated 2 Side reflectors are required on:-
adequately.
 Motor vehicles first used before 1
April 1986 and longer than 8 metres
overall.
Defective, damaged or insecure, advise IN
early rectification.  Motor vehicles first used from 1 April
1986 and longer than 6 metres
overall.
Incorrect rear marking fitted. - IN  Trailers longer than 5 metres overall,
excluding any drawbar.
3 HGV side reflectors must be amber, unless
they are within 1 metre of the rear of the
Conspicuity Markings (see notes 4 and 5)
vehicle, in which case they can be red.
Partially or completely missing, incorrectly located, Missing and / or likely to prevent width or D
not clearly visible from the rear, incorrect width or presence of the vehicle being indicated 4 Conspicuity markings are required on
colour. adequately. Goods Vehicles exceeding 7500kg GVW
first used on or after 10 July 2011 and
trailers exceeding 3500kg GVW
Defective, damaged or insecure, advise IN manufactured on or after 10 July 2011, and
early rectification. over 2.1 m wide and 6m long.
5 Conspicuity markings may be fitted in
place of, or as well as, rear marker boards.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 62
Rear Markings, Conspicuity Markings and Reflectors
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Obligatory Reflectors (see note 1)

Obligatory reflector missing/deteriorated/incorrectly Detachment imminent. I
fitted/obscured/insecure/defective/damaged.
All missing or reflecting red colour to the I
front or white colour to the rear.

likely to prevent width or presence of the D

vehicle being indicated adequately.

Advise early rectification. IN

HGV side reflector missing. (See notes 2 and 3). IN

HGV side reflector incorrectly fitted or not plainly Device, reflected colour or position does IN
visible from the side. not meet the annual test requirements
shown in HGV Inspection Manual
(see note 2).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 63
Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

All Lamps
1 No lamps are required to be fitted to
A lamp or lens insecure or damaged. Likely to cause injury or detachment I
vehicles only used on roads between
imminent.
sunrise and sunset. Trailers manufactured
before 1 October 1985 are not required to
Early detachment unlikely. IN
be fitted with front position lamps while
being drawn by a passenger vehicle.
Obligatory lamp shows red light to the front or white - D
light to the rear. 2 When visibility is seriously reduced (to less
than 100 metres), the use of dipped
headlamps and side lamps is required by
Regulation.
3 For agricultural vehicles see paragraph 3
of the introduction.
4 Where a headlamp is defective
consideration must be given to the
capability of other headlamps fitted.
5 The use of dipped-beam headlamps is
compulsory during the hours of darkness
i.e. the time between half an hour after
sunset and half an hour before sunrise,
except on a restricted road. A restricted
road is a road with a 30mph speed limit
and street lamps placed no more than 200
yards apart.
Continued overleaf...

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 136

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 63
Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Obligatory Headlamps (see note 3)

6 Prohibition action should be taken when a
Obligatory dipped headlamp inoperative/missing/ When use of headlamps is compulsory I
vehicle is encountered in the hours of
obscured/dim/defective (single light or light sources or in the
darkness and where it can reasonably be
(see notes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 23, 24 and 25). case of LED less than 50% functioning)
assumed that vehicle is likely to be used
where compulsory use of dipped
IN
headlamps is required.
multiple light or light
sources or in the case of LED, 50% or 7 End marker lamps are required on vehicles
more functioning. first used on or after 1 April 1991 that have
an overall width greater than 2100mm and
a maximum speed exceeding 25mph.

I 8 No lamps are required to be fitted to

Obligatory headlamp insecure or lens broken or Detachment imminent. vehicles only used on roads between
missing. sunrise and sunset. Motor vehicles first
Heavily defective or missing projection D
used before 1 April 1986 are not required
system (reflector and lens). to be fitted with any rear lamps while
drawing a trailer fitted with lamps.
Slightly defective projection system IN
(reflector and lens). 9 This action is appropriate only between
sunset and sunrise or in conditions of
Insecure, early detachment unlikely. IN seriously reduced visibility.
10 Rear fog lamps are required on vehicles
first used on or after 1 April 1980 (or 1
The dipped beam and/or main beam emitted from a Likely to cause dazzle when headlamp I April 1986 in the case of agricultural
matched pair of obligatory headlamps cannot be use is compulsory. vehicles or works trucks) with an overall
switched on or off together. width greater than 1300mm and a
Advise early rectification. IN maximum speed exceeding 25mph.
Main beam tell-tale (Vehicles first used on or Inoperative. D 11 Where one rear fog lamp is fitted, it must
after 01 April 1986). be positioned on the centre-line or offside
of the vehicle.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 63
Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

In any grouped obligatory headlamp system (i.e. Likely to cause dazzle when headlamp I 12 Stop lamps are not required on vehicles
more than one matched pair) they cannot either be use is compulsory. not fitted with front or rear position lamps
dipped in unison or when one matched pair is or to vehicles with a maximum speed not
dipped the other pairs are extinguished. Advise early rectification. IN exceeding 25mph or to agricultural
vehicles first used before 1 April 1986 or to
Emitted colour, position, or marking. Does not meet requirements of the D any other vehicle first used before
annual test as shown in the HGV/PSV 1January 1936.
Inspection Manual.
13 Vehicles first used on or after 1 January
1936 and before 1 January 1971 need
Products on lens or light source which obviously - D only one stop lamp. This lamp must be
reduce light brightness or change emitted colour. fitted on the centreline or offside of the
D vehicle.
Obligatory headlamp light source and lamp not - (See note 15)
compatible. 14 On vehicles with an air brake system, care
must be taken to ensure the brake lights
are not on due to low air pressure.
Headlamp cleaning device inoperative (where In the case of gas-discharging lamps. D
15 Where a HID (High Intensity Discharge)
mandatory) (see note 16).
IN conversion is fitted in a halogen headlamp
Device inoperative for other types of
without washer and self levelling. Positive
headlamp.
confirmation of non compliance required.
Obligatory front and rear position lamps, side 16 Vehicles equipped with HID headlamps
marker lamps, end outline marker lamps and require a headlamp cleaning device if first
daytime running lamps registered from 01 September 2009 and
(see notes 1, 2, 7, 8, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 & 25) output is over 2000 lumens.

Obligatory rear position lamp inoperative/missing/ Prevents width or presence of the vehicle I
dim/obscured/affected by the operation of another being indicated adequately during Continued overleaf...
lamp/lens broken or missing. compulsory use (see notes 6 and 9).

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 63
Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Obligatory front position lamp/side marker lamp/end Likely to prevent width or presence of the D 17 Reversing lamps are obligatory on
outline marker lamp or light source missing, vehicle being indicated adequately vehicles registered from 01 September
inoperative or defective. during compulsory use (see note 9). 2009.
18 Inspection of front fog lamps only applies
Advise early rectification. IN to vehicles first registered from 01 March
2018 where they have them fitted.
19 Prohibition action for fog light operational
defects should only be taken during times
Obligatory lamp with defective/missing lens. Likely to prevent width or presence of the D of adverse weather conditions where
vehicle being indicated adequately visibility is seriously reduced.
during compulsory use (see note 9). 20 Inspection of Daytime Running Lamps
applies to any vehicle first registered from
Advise early rectification. IN 01 March 2018. May not operate until
speed exceeds 10km/h or 100m has been
Obligatory lamp Emitted colour, position, or Does not meet requirements of the IN travelled.
marking. annual test as shown in the HGV/PSV 21 Side Marker lamps are required on HGV
Inspection Manual. vehicles first used from 01 April 1991 and
trailers manufactured from 01 October
Obligatory lamp with products on lens or light Which reduce light brightness or change IN 1990. Side Marker lamps are not required
source. emitted colour. to be fitted to PSVs.
22 A light source means a bulb, an LED
Front or rear position lamp has intermittent - IN or any other means of emitting light.
operation.
23 If more than 1 bulb or LED is fitted in
the lamp, at least 50% must work.
Front position lamp does not face to the front or - IN
affected by operation of another lamp. Continued overleaf...

Rear position lamp does not face to the rear. - IN

Obligatory day time running lamp (See notes 20, Defective light source D
22 & 23) Advise early rectification IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 63
Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Front and Rear Fog Lamps (see note 8 and 18) 24 If two or more lamps are fitted and the
Any fog lamp insecure. Detachment imminent. I aggregated illuminated area occupies 60%
or more of the area of smallest rectangle
Advise early rectification. IN circumscribing the illuminated area this
should be treated as one lamp
Obligatory fog lamp missing/obscured/inoperative. (See notes 10, 11 and 19). D
For example, please see picture below, if
multiple lamps are fitted (3 brake lights in
Rear fog lamp emits light of a colour other than red this example), a rectangle is pictured
- IN
or comes on with brake light. around the illuminated area of all adjacent
lamps, where the illuminated surface
Single light source or in the case of LED occupies 60% or more of the area within
Any fog light defective light source D
less than 50% functioning. the rectangle, these lamps will be treated
(see note 19 and 22). as one lamp.
Multiple light source or in the case of IN
LED 50% or more functioning.

Defective/missing lens (see note 19). Likely to prevent presence of the vehicle D
being indicated adequately. In this example if two out of three lamps
are inoperative this is less than 50% and
Advise early rectification. IN would be a prohibition.

Front fog light very serious risk of dazzling - D

oncoming traffic (see note 19).

D 25 Obscuration of lamps, provided at least

Rear fog light tell-tale (see note 19). Inoperative. 50% of the lamp is visible this is not a
IN deficiency.
Fog light system does not operate in accordance -
with the HGV/PSV Inspection Manual.
Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 63
Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

26 High level stop lamps fitted above 2100mm

Stop Lamps No stop lamp shows a steady red light to I should be disregarded unless the obligatory
(see notes 12,13,22, 23,24,25&26) the rear when the brake is applied. lamps of a recovery vehicle are being
Stop lamp inoperative/obscured/missing/ obscured by a vehicle being towed.
Stop lamp(s) remain on when all brakes I
dim/otherwise defective in operation.
are released (see note 14).
Stop lamps on a towing vehicle, which is IN
coupled to a trailer, inoperative or
defective in operation (trailer stop lamps
visible and show a steady red light to the
rear).
Advise early rectification (see note 13). IN

Defective light source. Single light source or in the case of LED D

less than 50% functioning.

Multiple light sources or in the case of IN

LED 50% or more functioning.

Heavily defective lens. Insufficient illumination to indicate to D

other road users that the vehicle is
braking.

Emitted colour, position or marking. Does not meet requirements of the IN

annual test as shown in the HGV/PSV
Inspection Manual.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 63
Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Reversing Lamps

Reversing lamp insecure. Detachment imminent. I

Early detachment unlikely. IN

Emitted colour, position or marking (see note 17). Does not meet requirements of the D
annual test as shown in the HGV/PSV
Inspection Manual.

Reversing lamp or light source/lens defective - IN

(see notes 17 and 22).

Reversing lamp switching. Reversing lamp can be switched on with D

gear not in reverse position.

Reversing lamp remains lit after reverse D

gear is disengaged

Switch does not operate as intended. IN

Reversing lamp indicator inoperative. - IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 63
Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Rear Registration Plate Lamps

Missing or inoperative (during the hours of No registration plate lamps operating. D
darkness only).
At least one lamp or light source still IN
operating (see note 22).

Rear registration plate lamp on towing vehicle Inoperative or defective in operation IN

coupled to a trailer

- IN
Registration plate lamp throwing direct or white light
to the rear.

System does not operate as intended. - IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 66
Direction Indicators and Hazard Warning Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Direction Indicators (see notes 1 to 10) Direction Detachment imminent. I

1 Direction indicators are not required to be
indicator insecure.
Early detachment unlikely. IN fitted to vehicles that are not fitted with front
or rear position lamps.
Direction indicator missing/inoperative/not Indicator cannot be used to clearly show I 2 A side repeater lamp is classed as a
functioning correctly/damaged/obscured/lens the driver’s intention (see notes 3 and 5). direction indicator lamp.
broken or missing.
3 Vehicles first used before 1 April 1986 are
Advise early rectification. IN not required to have hazard warning lamps
Indicator lamps on a towing vehicle, which is Inoperative or defective in operation or side repeater indicators.
IN
coupled to a trailer (trailer indicators visible and operating
correctly) 4 The criteria must be the inability of the
driver to signal the intention to change
direction to any road user in regard to their
position on the road. It is unlikely that hand
signals will be acceptable for most vehicles
Defective light source. covered by this Part of the guide.
In the case of LED less than 50%
functioning. D 5 For vehicle and trailer combinations
Multiple light source or in the case of providing the towing vehicle front
IN
LED 50% or more functioning. indicators, side repeaters and trailer rear
Defective lens. Heavily defective emitted light affected. indicators are functioning correctly, this is
D
deemed appropriate for drivers to clearly
Slightly defective no influence on emitted
light. IN show their intention to turn or change
direction. An inspection notice should be
issued if the indicators are inoperative on
Indicator switch. Inoperative. the rear of the towing vehicle, when
I
coupled to a trailer.

Lamp, emitted colour, position or marking not in 6 A light source means a bulb, an LED or
accordance with the requirements of HGV/PSV - D any other means of emitting light.
Inspection Manual.
continued overleaf...

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 144

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 66
Direction Indicators and Hazard Warning Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Rate of flashing does not meet that quoted in - IN

7 If more than one bulb or LED is fitted in
HGV/PSV Inspection Manual.
the lamp at least 50% must work.

Indicator warning lamp inoperative/not fitted. If the warning lamp is inoperative or not IN 8 If two or more lamps are fitted and the
fitted and the driver cannot see that each aggregated illuminated area occupies 60%
indicator is functioning and there is no or more of the area of smallest rectangle
audible tell-tale device. circumscribing the illuminated area this
should be treated as one lamp
For example, please see picture below, if
Hazard Warning Lamps required on motor multiple lamps are fitted (3 indicator lights
vehicles first used from 01 April 1986 in this example), a rectangle is pictured
(see note 3) around the illuminated area of all adjacent
lamps, where the illuminated surface
Hazard warning lamps inoperative. No Operation at all. D occupies 60% or more of the area within
the rectangle, these lamps will be treated
as one lamp.
Not functioning correctly. - IN

In this example if two out of three lamps

are inoperative this is less than 50% and
would be a prohibition.

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 66
Direction Indicators and Hazard Warning Lamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

9 Obscuration of lamps, provided at least

50% of the lamp is visible this is not a
deficiency.

10 High level indicator lamps fitted above

2300mm should be disregarded unless the
obligatory lamps of a recovery vehicle are
being obscured by a vehicle being towed.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 146

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 67
Aim of Headlamps
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Aim of Headlamps (see note 3)

1 An immediate prohibition will normally only
Headlamp aim too high or too far to the right. Likely to cause dazzle when use of I
be appropriate for such a defect in
dipped headlamps is compulsory.
conditions of seriously reduced visibility or
at night.
IN
2 If the degree of misalignment of the
headlamp aim does not warrant an
Headlamp aim too low or too far to the left. Likely to prevent the driver from being I immediate prohibition, but an instrumented
able to drive safely when use of dipped check shows that the headlamp aim falls
headlamps is compulsory. outside the statutory test limits, an
Inspection Notice should be issued.
IN 3 For agricultural vehicles see paragraph 3
of the introduction.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 147

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 71
Service Brake Performance
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Service Brake Operation and Performance (see

1 When testing brakes, examiners should
note 4)
have no difficulty in establishing the
Service brake does not operate on every road wheel No braking effort on one or more road I
performance of the service brake and,
where originally designed to do so (see note 5). wheels.
where the secondary brake is also the
parking brake, the assessment of their
performance should create no problems.
Service brake efficiency low (see notes 1, 2 and 3) Performance does not meet prescribed I
C&U requirements (specify). 2 Particularly when using a roller brake
tester to determine brake performance,
examiners should, where possible, take
Overall performance below normal IN into account the maximum design weight
expectation. of the vehicle (or calculated laden weight
in the case of a PSV).
No gradual variation in brake effort (grabbing). Effort is not in relation to pedal pressure. D
This will usually only be possible if the
vehicle is at or near to maximum weight
D and the examiner is sure that all brake
Abnormal lag in brake operation of any wheel. Indicated by an abnormal time lag before
modulating valves (e.g. load sensing
an increased reading is obtained on
RBT. valves) are delivering maximum pressure.
In the case of a vehicle at a lower weight,
the examiner might only be able to judge
brake performance against presented
weight where this is known.

For more detailed guidance on the

roller brake test process refer to the
appropriate Inspection Manual.

Continued overleaf...

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 148

 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 71
Service Brake Performance
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Service brake unbalanced, evidence of oval brake In the case of testing on the road, the I
3 There is no performance laid down for
drum/distorted disc. vehicle deviates excessively from a agricultural motor vehicles driven at not
straight line.
more than 20mph if first used before 1
June 1986 or agricultural trailers
Service brake unbalanced. On a steered axle braking effort from I
manufactured before 1 December 1985.
any wheel is less than 50% of the
After these dates, they are required to
maximum effort recorded from the other
achieve 25% of the total designed
wheel on the same axle.
maximum axle weights.
Braking effort from any wheel is less D 4 When measuring brake performance,
than 70% of the effort of the other percentage efficiencies and type of
wheel on the same axle. equipment should be recorded.
5 Some vehicles, perhaps the most common
Excessive fluctuation of brake force during A fluctuation in excess of 70%, between D being rear steer tractor units, are designed
each complete wheel revolution. highest and lowest indicated readings. so that the second steer brakes do not
operate until the drive axle is heavily
Service brake binding excessively. Severely overheated and either failure I loaded (e.g. between 60% and the
or fire likely. maximum permitted weight at which point
the axle is deployed and air is fed to the
No apparent risk of early failure. IN actuators). These axles will normally be
“supplementary axles” with single wheels
Brake not working and operation or I positioned immediately in front of, or
Overrun brake defective.
efficiency is obviously affected. behind drive axles. However, other
(see note 6) configurations may be encountered.
Overrun brake defective - operation D 6 When immediate action is taken this must
affected. be reinforced with evidence that the
efficiency is impaired, e.g. static
performance test or in the case of
adjustment, clearly no reserve travel.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 72
Secondary Brake Performance
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Secondary Brake Operation and Performance

See notes on page 151.
If met by separate system (see note 2)

Secondary brake inefficient. Performance does not meet prescribed I

C&U requirements (specify).

Inadequate braking effort on one or more wheels. No braking effort at any wheel equipped I
with a brake operated by the secondary
brake system.

Little braking effort at any wheel D

equipped with a brake operated by the
secondary brake system.

Brake unbalanced. On a steered axle braking effort from I

any wheel is less than 50% of the
maximum effort recorded from the other
wheel on the same axle.

Braking effort from any wheel is less than D

70% of the effort of the other wheel on
the same axle.

No gradual variation in brake effort (grabbing). - D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 72
Secondary Brake Performance
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles

1 When testing brakes, examiners should have no difficulty in establishing the performance of the service brake and, where the secondary brake is also the
parking brake, the assessment of their performance should create no problems.

In such circumstances, if the parking brake can produce the secondary brake performance, the regulations can be regarded as satisfactory, as an
alternative where the secondary brake performance is represented by each constituent part of a split or dual brake, the system performance can be
considered as met.

Where this is not possible, the examiner can only use discretion, having regard to the general condition of the brakes and the service brake performance.

2 When measuring brake performance, percentage efficiencies and type of equipment should be recorded.

3 Particularly when using a roller brake tester to determine brake performance, examiners must, where possible, take into account the maximum design
weight of the vehicle (or calculated laden weight in the case of a PSV).
This will usually only be possible if the vehicle is at or near to maximum weight and the examiner is sure that all brake modulating valves (eg load
sensing valves) are delivering maximum pressure.
In the case of a vehicle at a lower weight, the examiner might only be able to judge brake performance against presented weight, where this is known.

For more detailed guidance on the roller brake test process refer to the appropriate Inspection Manual.

4 There is no performance laid down for agricultural motor vehicles driven at not more than 20mph if first used before 1 June 1986 or agricultural trailers
manufactured before 1 December 1985. After these dates, they are required to achieve 25% of the total designed maximum axle weights.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 73
Parking Brake Performance
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Parking Brake Performance (see note 5)

See notes on page 153.
Parking brake inefficient (see notes 1, 2, 3 and 4). Does not meet prescribed C&U I
requirements (specify).

Little or no braking effort on a road wheel D

equipped with a brake operated by the
parking brake system.

Overall performance below normal IN

expectation.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
IM 73
Parking Brake Performance
Part 1: Public Service, Heavy Goods and Agricultural Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

1 Particularly when using a roller brake tester to determine brake performance, examiners must, where possible, take into account the maximum design
weight of the vehicle (or calculated laden weight in the case of a PSV).

This will usually only be possible if the vehicle is at or near to maximum weight. In the case of a vehicle at a lower weight, the examiner might only be
able to judge brake performance against presented weight, where this is known.

For more detailed guidance on the roller brake test process refer to the appropriate Inspection Manual.

2 For the purpose of this test, the vehicle can be brought to rest prior to applying the parking brake (gradient and static test only).

3 If the minimum efficiency prescribed in C&U is met, but performance is less than would be expected, an Inspection Notice must be issued
if action has not been taken under any other heading.

4 There is no specified performance for parking brakes on agricultural vehicles driven at not more than 20 mph and first used before 1
January 1968.

5 When measuring brake performance, percentage efficiencies and type of equipment should be recorded.

April 2023 - Version 1.0 Document uncontrolled when printed 153

 Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency

Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private

Buses and Light Goods Vehicles

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Contents
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Page Page Page
Section 0: Identification of the vehicle Section 4: Lamps, reflectors & electrical Section 6: Body, structure & attachments
Registration Plates and VIN Details 156 equipment Chassis and Attachments 208
All Lamps 186 Coupling on Vehicle 209
Section 1: Brakes Front Position Lamps 187 Coupling on Trailer 210
Complete Braking System 157 Rear Position Lamps 187 Security of Load 212
Controls 157 Rear Fog Lamps 188 Engine Security 216
Warning Systems 159 Reflectors 188 Fuel Tank and System 216
Air/Vacuum Assistance 160 Direction Indicators 188 Exhaust System 217
Actuators 162 Hazard Warning Lamps 189 Drive/propeller shafts 218
Servos 162 Headlamps 189 Driving Controls/ADAS 219
Brake Travel/Adjustment/Indicators 163 Stop Lamps 191 Driver’s Area and Fittings 219
Brake Valves 163 Reversing Lamps 191 Passenger Seats 221
Air/Vacuum Reservoir 164 Rear Registration Plate lamps 192 Body Paneling 222
Hydraulic Systems 165 Bumpers 223
Mechanical Components 167 Battery 193 Wings and Wheel Arches 224
ABS/ESC Components 169 Switchgear and Wiring 193 Doors 225
Brake Pipes and Hoses 171 Bonnet 225
Additional Braking Devices/Retarders/ 172 Section 5: Axles, wheels,
Exhaust Brakes tyres & suspension Section 7: Other equipment
Service Brake Operation & Performance 173 Road Wheels and Hubs 194 Seat Belts 226
Parking Brake Operation & Performance 175 Spare Wheel 196 Supplementary Restraint System 227
General 175 Tyres 196 Locks and Anti-Theft 227
Axles, Stub Axles and Wheel Bearings 200 Speed Limiter 228
Section 2: Steering
Steering Wheel and Column 176 Springs 201 Section 8: Nuisance
Steering Box/Rack and Pinion 177 Anchor/Shackle Pins 202 Exhaust Emissions 229
Steering Linkage 179 Spring Brackets 203 Emissions Control Equipment 230
Power Steering 181 Torsion Bars 204 Fluid Leaks 230
Electronic Power Steering (EPS) 182 Bonded units 204
All Steering Types 182 Air Suspension 204 Section 9: Supplementary tests for
King Pins 183 Suspensions Arms/Linkages/Subframes 204 buses and coaches
Shock Absorbers 205 Entrance & exit doors 231
Section 3: Visibility Anti-roll Bars 205 Emergency exits 231
Windscreen and Windows 184 Suspension Joints/Covers 206 Passenger grab handles 231
Washers and Wipers 185 Displacers 206 Steps & stairs 232
General 207

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 0
Identification of the vehicle
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Registration Plates and VIN Details 1 Unregistered vehicles need not be fitted
Vehicle registration plate missing Missing where legally required. D with registration plates, for trailer
(See notes 1, 2 & 5). registration plates refer to the enforcement
sanctions policy.
Likely to be misread. D
Vehicle registration plate broken/incomplete/dirty/ 2 A three wheeled vehicle which has a
deteriorated/faded/obscured or with any feature motorcycle derived front end, does not
that has the effect of changing the appearance or require a front registration plate.
legibility of any of the characters, so that the true
identity of the vehicle is less easily established. 3 Where the registration plates does not
agree with the DVLA record the VIN
should be used to identify the vehicle on
Vehicle registration plate incorrect (see note 3). Registration mark does not relate to the D the prohibition notice.
vehicle. 4 A vehicle identification number (VIN or
chassis number) is required on: Kit cars
Any registration plate insecure. and amateur built vehicles first used on or
Likely to become detached. I after 01/09/2001, and on all other vehicles
first used on or after 01/08/1980.
A vehicle identification number missing, not found, Missing or not found. D
incomplete, illegible or obviously falsified 5 A registration plate located behind a
(see note 4). windscreen is not acceptable and is
Incomplete, illegible or obviously D considered to be missing.
falsified.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Complete braking system

1 The provision of a pedal rubber which is
itself of an anti-slip material is not to be
Unsafe modification. To any braking system component I
regarded as defective if its design pattern
(specify component).
is worn smooth.
A brake system component damaged or corroded. Adversely affecting brake performance. I 2 Defect might not apply to vehicles
equipped with full air/ vacuum or
continuous flow hydraulic braking systems.
Affecting the braking system. D
For power assisted systems the engine
might need to be running to do these
checks.
3 If a vehicle has a reservoir that is integral
Controls with the servo unit and has no other
Hand brake lever/foot brake pedal fractured/ I reservoir and no warning device is fitted,
incomplete/ seized/insecure. this is not automatically a reason for action
since some systems need not have a
Able to function as intended or failure D warning device.
does not appear imminent.
4 Vehicles used from 1 April 1983 can be
Pivot too tight. D fitted with either a visual warning device or
an audible device. If both are fitted only
Hand brake lever/foot brake pedal travel impeded/ Cannot be operated satisfactorily. I one need work. Vehicles first used before
cannot be readily operated. 1 April 1983 must be fitted with a visual
Impeded but can be operated D warning device. If an audible warning
satisfactorily. device is also fitted this is considered to be
an addition to the mandatory requirement.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Excessive side play in hand brake lever. Failure imminent or could inadvertently I
5 Items under Warning Systems apply to all
disengage.
vehicles registered on or after 1 October
1937, except vehicles under 3,050kg
Advise early rectification. IN
unladen and;
 fitted with a vacuum reservoir coupled
Insufficient reserve travel on hand brake lever/foot Brake efficiency impaired. I direct to the induction manifold of the
brake pedal. engine or
Braking efficiency appears unaffected. D
 a reservoir in a servo unit.
6 If the vacuum gauge has no warning mark,
Hand brake lever pawl and/ or ratchet worn. Lever cannot be set or could I take the 25 to 30cm mark as the warning
inadvertently disengage. mark. Some vehicles do not have gauges
or warning devices.
Advise early rectification. IN
7 Only applicable to vehicles equipped with
a brake servo-system powered from the
engine inlet manifold.
Foot brake pedal anti-slip provision/missing/loose/ Anti-slip provision missing or about to D
deteriorated/worn smooth (see note 1). become detached or level of grip offered 8 Brake actuators or servos in which the
affected. travel cannot be visually assessed are
often fitted with a device that indicates the
Advise early rectification. IN extent of travel of the piston or diaphragm.
9 Minor valves may not be supported.
Foot brake pedal “creeps” to floor (see note 2). - I 10 Faults, particularly those concerning the
free movement of valves, are often difficult
to positively detect. If examiners are in any
Foot brake pedal excessively “spongy” indicating a Brake efficiency impaired. I doubt about the existence of a defect the
fault in the system (see note 2). IN option must be used.
Braking efficiency appears unaffected. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

11 Defects apply to continuous flow hydraulic

Brake hand valve fractured/damaged/insecure. If not functional. I
braking systems.
But its function is not immediately D 12 Fully floating cylinders must not be
impaired. confused with insecure cylinders.
13 When immediate action is taken this must
Brake hand control valve cannot be moved over its - I be reinforced with evidence that the
original full travel or cannot be retained in the on or efficiency is impaired, i.e. brake test result
off positions. or, in the case of adjustment, clearly no
reserve travel.
Parking brake hand valve lever cannot be set. - I
(a) Surface cracks on brake discs and drums
Warning Systems are a normal feature which should be
Warning gauge/flag/light missing/not functioning/not Where only one such device is fitted. I ignored.
visible.
But another such device performs this
IN
function (see notes 3, 4 and 5). 14 Excess travel means when there is no
reserve travel left or the amount of
Warning gauge not illuminated. Function not readily visible during the IN movement clearly demonstrates that the
hours of darkness (see notes 3, 4 and 5). point at which adjustment was necessary
has been exceeded.
Warning buzzer inoperative. (see notes 3, 4 and 5). IN 15 Where legally required to be fitted (see
vehicle technical record if appropriate).
16 Examiners must, where possible, take into
account the design or kerb weight of the
vehicle as appropriate. Where vehicles are
tested on a roller brake tester, the
appropriate Inspection Manual criteria
must be used.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Electronic parking brake warning light indicates a Brake efficiency impaired. I

17 On a three-wheeled vehicle, the parking
malfunction.
brake needs to operate on only one wheel.
Electronic park brake warning light illuminated Warning light illuminated indicating a
D 18 Action under this section is confined to
indicating a fault. fault.
cases where the minimum efficiency
prescribed in C&U is met but abnormally
Air/Vacuum Assistance
low effort is identified indicating a serious
Air/vacuum assistance not working. Compressor or - I
brake malfunction.
vacuum pump insecure or drive system missing or
defective. 19 Brake fluid level and contamination checks
are confined to transparent reservoirs or
Insufficient reserve of air/vacuum. Insufficient pressure or vacuum to give I where an indicator is fitted. Reservoir caps
assistance for two or more applications should not be removed.
of the brakes after the warning device 20 Activation of the drain device is not
has operated (see note 6). required.
Insufficient pressure or vacuum to give D 21 Brake friction material lining/pad worn to
assistance for four or more applications excess is less than 1.5mm thick at any
of the brakes after the warning device point, a visual assessment is acceptable
has operated (see note 6). providing the friction material can be
seen. Prohibition action should only be
taken where the lining or pad friction
Loss of air/vacuum. Pressure/ vacuum cannot be sustained I material thickness can be positively
with engine running just above idling confirmed.
speed with or without brakes applied.
Pressure/ vacuum can be sustained with D 22 ESC MIL must be a separate lamp. One
engine running just above idling speed lamp covers a combination. ESC MIL
with or without brakes applied. maybe illuminated if the driver has
manually swithched off the system, this
will not result in prohibition action.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Air/ vacuum build up slow. Warning device fails to cease operating I 23 When immediate action is taken this
or gauge does not reach 3.1kg/ sq. cm must be reinforced with evidence that
(45 psi/ 3 bar/ 310 kPa) within 6 minutes the efficiency is impaired, e.g. static
or 25 to 30cm vacuum in 2 minutes. performance test or in the case of
adjustment, clearly no reserve travel.
Warning device fails to cease operating D
or gauge does not reach 3.1kg/ sq. cm
(45 psi/ 3 bar/ 310 kPa) within 3 minutes
or 25 to 30cm vacuum in 1 minute
(see note 6).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Actuators
Air/vacuum actuator insecure/damaged/fractured/ Failed or failure imminent. I
excessively corroded/incorrectly fitted.
Early failure unlikely. D

Excess travel of brake actuator. Brake efficiency impaired. I

Excess amount of travel. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Servos
Brake servo insecure. Detached or detachment imminent. I

Immediate detachment unlikely. D

Brake servo damaged/incorrectly fitted/fractured/ Failed or failure imminent. I

excessively corroded/defective or ineffective.
Immediate failure unlikely. D

Excessive travel of brake servo. Brake efficiency impaired. I

Excessive. D

Servo losing vacuum. Vacuum cannot be sustained with engine I

running above idling speed and brake
applied.

Vacuum can be sustained with engine D

running above idling speed and brake
applied.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Inlet manifold vacuum servo assistance inoperative/ Brake efficiency impaired. I

vacuum pipe defective.
Braking efficiency appears unimpaired D
(see note 7).

Brake Travel/Adjustment Indicators

Brake piston/ diaphragm travel indicator missing/ (see note 8). IN
inoperative.

Brake adjustment indicator shows that brake Brake efficiency impaired. I

adjustment is necessary.
Defective requires rectification. D

Brake Valves
Brake valve inoperative (specify component). - I

Brake valve insecure (specify component). Detached or detachment imminent and/ I

or likely to cause leakage at connection.

Insecurity due to weakness or failure of D

supporting structure (see note 9).

Brake valve damaged/fractured/excessively To an extent that renders the valve I

corroded (specify component). inoperative or failure imminent.

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Brake valve leaking. Leakage such that pressure or vacuum I
cannot be sustained with engine running
just above idling speed.

Leakage such that pressure or vacuum D

can be sustained with engine running
just above idling speed.

Load sensing valve seized, linkage defective, Seized or inoperative and ABS not fitted I
missing or out of adjustment. or inoperative.

Missing where fitted as standard. I

Seized or inoperative and ABS D

functioning.

Linkage defective or incorrectly adjusted. D

Valve defective / LSV data plate missing IN

or illegible (where required).

Excessive oil/ contaminant discharge from brake - D

valves.

Air/Vacuum Reservoir
Brake air/vacuum reservoir damaged/excessively About to become detached or failure I
corroded/insecure. imminent.

Immediate detachment or failure unlikely. D

Drain device inoperative (see note 20). - D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Hydraulic Systems
Brake master cylinder/reservoir/wheel cylinder/ Detached or detachment imminent. I
caliper insecure.
Immediate detachment unlikely. D

Brake master cylinder/wheel cylinder/caliper Failed or failure imminent. I

damaged/incorrectly fitted/fractured/severely
corroded/reservoir cap missing. Immediate failure unlikely. D

Reservoir cap missing. D

Brake fluid leaking from ... (specify source). Obvious leak leading to brake failure or I
presenting risk of fire.

Early brake failure unlikely or no obvious IN

fire risk.

Warning/light missing/not functioning. Brake If only means of warning. I

warning buzzer inoperative (see note 11).
Other method of warning available IN
advise rectification.

Hydraulic pressure build-up slow (see note 11). Warning device fails to cease operating I
within 6 minutes.

Warning device fails to cease operating D

within 4 minutes.

Hydraulic cylinder mounting insecure Detached or detachment imminent. I

(see notes 9, 10 and 12).
Immediate detachment unlikely. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake fluid low level warning lamp indicates a fault/ No brake fluid visible. I
absence of or low fluid level in hydraulic brake fluid
reservoir (see note 19). Fluid level significantly below the D
minimum level indication.

Fluid level below minimum mark. IN

Fluid warning lamp illuminated or IN

defective.

Incorrect functioning of brake fluid level IN

warning device.

Brake fluid contaminated (see note 19). Obviously contaminated and brake I
function affected.

Obviously contaminated. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Mechanical Components
Any brake component excessively worn/ Failed or failure imminent. I
corroded/fractured/reduced in diameter/number Serious reduction of strength/ D
of strands reduced (specify component). excessively worn or displaced.
Any retaining/locking device missing/loose
(specify component). Advise early rectification. IN

Any retaining/locking device missing/loose Retaining device missing or detached. I

(specify
component). Retaining device insecure or locking
D
device missing or insecure.

Brake lining/pad/friction material missing/ Missing, detached/detachment I

excessively worn/insecure. imminent / metal to metal contact or
braking efficiency impaired.
worn to excess less than 1.5mm D
(see note 21).
Brake wear warning device activated. IN
Worn advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Brake friction material lining or pad not And braking efficiency impaired. I
contacting the drum or disc (See note 13)

Severely contaminated pad/lining material. Braking efficiency impaired I

(see note 13).

Where contamination is clearly evident D

and likely to affect performance but
brake test equipment not available to
confirm.

Brake efficiency unaffected. IN

Brake disc fractured/excessively worn/pitted/insert Failed or failure imminent. I

insecure (see note 13a).
A fracture extending through the D
surface into the ventilation cavity.

Advise early rectification. IN

Brake drum fractured/ excessively worn Failed or failure imminent. I

(see note 13a).
Drum fractured through. D

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Any component seized/restricted/fouling/excessive Brake efficiency impaired. I

travel (specify component).
But unlikely to affect braking efficiency. D

Brake backplate/disc loose. Brake efficiency impaired. I

Brake efficiency not impaired. D

Abnormal movement of levers indicating Brake efficiency impaired. I

maladjustment (see note 14).
Brake efficiency not impaired. D

Anti-lock Braking Components (ABS) Such that the ABS system is rendered I
Any component forming part of an anti-lock inoperative or spurious signals are given
and the vehicle is not equipped with load
braking system missing/damaged/ disconnected/
sensing.
malfunctioning.
Such that the ABS system is likely to D
become inoperative or spurious signals
are likely to be given and the vehicle is
equipped with load sensing.

Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) ABS Warning light inoperative or I

Anti-lock brake warning light sequence inoperative indicates a fault and the vehicle is not
or indicates a fault. equipped with load sensing in addition to
ABS.

ABS warning light inoperative or D

indicates a fault and the vehicle is
equipped with load sensing in addition to
ABS.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Any component forming part of an ESC system Such that the ESC system is rendered D
missing/damaged/disconnected/malfunctioning. inoperative and no evidence of
operation.

Warning light inoperative or indicates the existence ESC MIL inoperative or indicates the D
of a fault. (See note 22). existence of a fault.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake Pipes and Hoses

Brake pipe excessively chafed/damaged or kinked. Failed or failure imminent. I

Risk of further damage. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Brake pipe corroded. Failed or failure imminent. I

Deeply pitted and weakened. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Brake pipe inadequately clipped/supported. Failed or failure imminent. I

Significantly insecure. D
Advise early rectification. IN
Brake pipe fouling (specify component fouled). Failed or failure imminent. I

Risk of further damage. D

Brake hose chafed/deteriorated/stretched/bulging/ Failed or failure imminent. I

kinked/twisted/fouling/exposed to excessive heat
or porous. Risk of further damage. D

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake pipe/hose/coupling/connection leaking Any positive hydraulic leak. I

(specify component).
Leakage such that pressure or vacuum
cannot be sustained with engine I
running just above idling speed.

Pressure or vacuum can be sustained D

with engine running just above idling
speed.
Additional Braking Devices/Retarders/Exhaust
Brakes

Not working/missing. (See note 15). D

A device or component insecure/damaged/ Likely to become detached, fire hazard

I
contaminated/leaking gas or oil. or continuous oil leak.

Oil leakage in excess of 75mm diameter D

patch in 5 minutes.

Wiring chafed/insecure/poor condition. Fire hazard. I

No apparent fire risk / advise early IN

rectification.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Service Brake Operation and Performance

Service brake does not operate on every
road wheel. - I

Service brake efficiency low. Performance does not meet prescribed I

C&U requirements (specify).

Performance below normal expectation IN

(see note 16).

Service brake unbalanced. In the case of testing on the road, I

marked deviation from straight path
when brakes applied.

On a steered axle braking effort from I

any wheel is less than 50% of the
maximum effort recorded from the other
wheel on the same axle.

Braking effort from any wheel is less D

than 70% of the effort of the other wheel
on the same axle.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Service brake binding excessively. Severely overheated and either failure I

or fire likely.

Failure unlikely / no obvious risk of fire. IN

Advise early rectification. IN

Service brake ‘grabbing’ or ‘juddering’. Such as to affect directional control. I

No obvious affect to directional control. IN

Advise early rectification. IN

Overrun brake defective. Brake not working and operation or I

efficiency is obviously affected.
(see note 23).

Overrun brake defective - operation D

affected.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Parking Brake Operation and Performance

Parking brake does not operate on at least two road - I
wheels (see note 17).

Parking brake inefficient. Does not meet prescribed C&U I

requirements (specify).

Little or no braking effort on a road wheel D

on which the brake is designed to
operate (see note 18).

Performance below normal expectation IN

(see note 18).

Parking brake binding excessively. Severely overheated and either failure or I

fire likely.

No apparent risk of fire or failure. IN

General
Fracture, serious distortion or excessive corrosion in Failure or detachment imminent. I
main chassis, cross member or load bearing panel
within 30cm of a brake control mounting. No apparent risk of failure or D
detachment.

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steering Wheel and Column 1 The maximum permissible ‘free’ play on a

Excessive ‘free’ play at steering wheel. Likely to impair directional control of the I steering wheel is as follows:
vehicle.
If a point on the rim of the steering wheel
D moves without the road wheels moving for
a distance of
 (except on rack and pinion steering) 1/ 5
of diameter of steering wheel, e.g. 76mm
Steering wheel hub, rim or spokes insecure. Detachment imminent. I on a 380mm diameter wheel.
 (on rack and pinion steering) 1/ 30 of
No apparent risk of detachment. D
diameter e.g.13mm on a 380mm diameter
wheel. Free play of up to 1/8 of diameter,
Steering wheel hub, rim or spokes fractured. Failed or failure imminent or jagged I
e.g. 48mm on a 380mm diameter wheel is
edges likely to cut driver’s hand.
acceptable where the steering wheel
D  is placed forward from rack and pinion
steering, and

Steering wheel loose to column shaft. I  has a number of joints to the rack.

2 Power steering must be checked with

Steering wheel retaining device missing (specify I steering pump working but not providing
device). hydraulic assistance, the steering wheel
play is slightly greater than with manual
steering systems.
Excessive lift or movement of steering column. Abnormal movement indicating failure of I
component parts. 3 Cracks in the plastic covering of a spoke
do not necessarily indicate that the spoke
D is fractured. Jagged edges on the rim of a
steering wheel (e.g. due to cracks in
plastic covering) are a reason for action
only if they are likely to cut the driver’s
hand.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steering column flexible coupling or universal joint Failure imminent. I

4 Some vehicles have flexible top bearings
deteriorated/worn/insecure.
for the steering column, in which case
more than average movement is
D
permissible.
5 In certain types of steering e.g.: those
fitted with universal joints or flexible
couplings, there could be a certain amount
of movement present that is not due to
Steering wheel column adjuster defective. Steering wheel column cannot be I wear.
secured as required. 6 If the vehicle is fitted with power steering
the engine must be running when the
steering is operated.
7 Some steering joints are spring loaded.
The designed amount of movement must
Steering Box/Rack & Pinion (See Note 6) not be confused with abnormal movement.
8 If power steering is optional and removal
Steering stiff. Restricting operation. I has no adverse effect on the steering, no
action should be taken.

Steering box/rack noisy/knocking. Obvious roughness. D

With no apparent roughness in IN

operation. Notes continued overleaf...

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

9 It is not practicable to lay down precise

To the extent that functionality is limits, but the following is a guide to
Steering box sector shaft twisted or worn. I
affected. determine acceptable wear at king pins.

Shaft visibly twisted or excessively worn. With the wheel braked and off the ground,
D
note the total measured movement at the
outer wall of the tyre when the wheel is
rocked.
Excessive lift/end float on sector shaft, bushes or - D
splines. For 355mm wheels this must not exceed
6mm.

The maximum permissible movement for

Excessive lift in steering rack. - D wheels of other diameters must be in
proportion to this.
10 Power steering fluid level checks are
confined to transparent reservoirs or
Steering gear housing fractured/insecure/damaged. Any restriction, failure or detachment I where an indicator is fitted. Reservoir caps
imminent. should not be removed.

Steering rack gaiter missing/split/damaged or D

displaced.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steering Linkage
Steering drop arm loose. If movement is such that failure is likely. I

Excessive abnormal movement. D

Steering ball pin insecure. Detachment imminent. I

No apparent risk of detachment. D

Steering ball pin grooved. Diameter substantially reduced. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Track rod/drag link loose/misaligned. Excessive movement between mating I

parts (see note 7).

Slight movement (see note 7). D

Misaligned only. IN

Excessive movement in steering joint. If joint in danger of separation. I

No apparent danger of joint separation D

(see note 7).

Advise early rectification. IN

Steering relay arm pivot excessively worn. Failure imminent. I

No apparent risk of failure. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Steering relay arm pivot housing/bracket fractured/ Failure or detachment imminent. I
insecure.
No apparent risk of imminent failure or D
detachment.

Steering arm loose. Detachment imminent. I

Otherwise than above. D

Steering component fractured/deformed/insecure/ Failure or detachment imminent / I

excessively corroded/repaired by welding/fracture, function affected.
serious distortion or excessive corrosion in a load
bearing member within 30cm of mounting (specify But no apparent risk of imminent failure D
component). or detachment.

Steering component fouling, or road wheels or tyres Steering function impaired. I

fouling/ restricted in travel (specify component).
Steering function not impaired. D

Steering retaining/locking device missing/insecure Retaining device missing or ineffective. I

(specify component).
Retaining device insecure or any locking D
device missing or insecure.

Ball joint dust cover missing/damaged/deteriorated. Missing or severely deteriorated so as to D

no longer prevent the ingress of dirt.

Deteriorated or damaged. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Power Steering
Power steering inoperative (malfunctioning or Disconnected, inoperative or failure I
otherwise defective). imminent (see note 8).

Pump insecure or it’s drive system missing or Failure or detachment imminent. I

defective.
No apparent risk of failure or detachment D
Power steering, ram anchor bracket or pump Failure or detachment imminent. I
mounting fractured/insecure or otherwise defective.
No apparent risk of failure or detachment D

Power steering ram fluid pipes damaged. Pipes damaged and likely to fail. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Power steering pipes fouling (specify part of Steering function impaired. I

vehicle being fouled).
No apparent risk of steering function IN
being impaired.

Excessive fluid/air leakage from power steering Fluid/air leaking continuously, failure of I
(specify component). power steering imminent.

Contamination of materials so as to I
constitute a fire risk.

Fluid leak in excess of 75mm diameter D

patch in 5 minutes.

Advise early rectification IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Power steering ram joint excessively worn/spring Joint in danger of separation, or I

very weak/spring broken. detachment of ram imminent.

No apparent risk of joint separation or of D

ram becoming detached.

Insufficient power steering fluid (see note 10). No fluid visible. D

Below minimum mark. IN

Electronic Power Steering (EPS)

EPS malfunctioning or inoperative (see note 8). Power assistance inoperative. D

Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) D

indicates a system malfunction.

EPS systems with angle of steering wheel and road To the extent that steering is adversely I
wheels inconsistent. affected.

Inconsistent. D

All Steering types

Steering component with an unsafe modification. (specify component) I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

King Pins
Excessive wear of king pin and/or bushes or swivel Likely to affect steering or fail I
joint or MacPherson strut assembly. prematurely.

No apparent risk of affecting steering or D

premature failure (see note 9).

King pin loose in axle beam or swivel joint worn/ Pin displaced or displacement or failure I
insecure. likely.

No apparent risk of king pin/joint D

displacement or failure.

King pin or swivel joint retaining device missing/ Retaining device missing or detached. I
insecure.
Retaining device insecure. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 3
Visibility
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Windscreen and Windows

1 In the case of goods vehicles first used on
Windscreen or window cracked/scratched/damaged/ Driver’s view of the road seriously I
or after 1 January 1959, the glass of
discoloured/obscured or vision obstructed/insecure. impaired/presents a danger to occupants
windscreens and all windows in front of
of the vehicle/detachment likely.
and on either side of the driver’s seat must
be of safety glass.
Advise early rectification. IN
2 In the case of passenger or dual purpose
vehicles first used on or after 1 January
1959, if glass is fitted to the windscreen or
Windscreen not of safety glass. (see notes 1, 2 and 3). I any outside windows it must be safety
glass.
3 In the case of vehicles first used on or after
Window not of safety glass. (see notes 1, 2 and 3). D 1 June 1978, windscreens and windows
wholly or partly on either side of the
driver’s seat must be of specified safety
Window glazing insecure/cracked. Missing, detachment likely and/or I glass. All other windows must be specified
presents a risk of injury. safety glass or safety glazing.
Advise early rectification. IN 4 If the windscreen can be opened or by
some other means an adequate view can
be obtained from the driving seat, the
vehicle need not be provided with wipers
Windscreen and/or front side windows excessively Average light transmission <30% I or washers.
tinted.
Average light transmission >30%, <45% D

Average light transmission >45%, <65% IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 3
Visibility
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Washers and Wipers (see note 4)

Windscreen wiper missing/inoperative/blades worn/ Any wiper missing or inoperative such as I

does not operate over an adequate area. to impair driver’s view.

Subject to prevailing weather conditions D

(i.e. weather fine).

Advise early rectification. IN

Windscreen washer not fitted/inoperative/system Vision seriously impaired. I

incomplete/inadequate.

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

All lamps
1 No lamps or reflectors are required to be
fitted to vehicles only used on roads
A lamp lens insecure or damaged. Likely to cause injury or detachment I
between sunrise and sunset.
imminent.
2 This action is appropriate only between
sunset and sunrise or in conditions of
seriously reduced visibility.
A mandatory lamp showing red light to the front or - D 3 Rear fog lamps are required by vehicles
white to the rear or has heavily reduced light first used on or after 1 April 1980 which
intensity. have a width greater than 1300mm and a
maximum speed exceeding 25mph.
4 Where only one rear fog lamp is fitted it
A mandatory lamp with products on the lens or light Heavily reduces light intensity. D must be positioned on the centreline or
source. offside of the vehicle.
5 The criteria must be the inability of the
Obviously reduces light intensity or IN driver to signal the intention to change
changes emitted colour. direction to any road user in regard to their
position on the road. Hand signals will only
be considered for private cars and certain
pickup trucks depending on load. The
A mandatory lamp emitted colour, position or - IN driver must be conversant with the arm
intensity not in accordance with the requirements. signals rule in the highway code.

6 Vehicles first used before 1 April 1986 are

not required to have hazard warning lamps
or side repeater indicators.
7 A side repeater lamp is classed as a
direction indicator lamp.

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Obligatory Front Position Lamps (see note 1)

8 Where a headlamp is defective
Obligatory front position lamp insecure. Lamp so insecure that detachment is I
consideration must be given to the
imminent.
capability of other headlamps fitted.
Advise early rectification. IN 9 An immediate prohibition will normally only
be appropriate for such a defect in
Obligatory front position lamp inoperative/missing/ - IN conditions of seriously reduced visibility or
dim/obscured/shows light of wrong colour otherwise at night.
not in good working order. 10 If the degree of misalignment of the
headlamp aim does not warrant an
Obligatory front position lamp has intermittent - IN immediate prohibition, but an instrumented
operation, is affected by the operation of another check shows that the headlamp aim falls
lamp, does not face the front or is incorrectly outside the statutory test limits, the driver
positioned. should be informed.
Obligatory Rear Position Lamps (see note 1)
Obligatory rear lamp insecure. Likely to cause injury or detachment I 11 When visibility is seriously reduced (to less
imminent. than 100 metres) the use of dipped
headlamps is required by regulation.
Insecure. IN 12 The use of dipped-beam headlamps is
compulsory during the hours of darkness
Obligatory rear lamp inoperative/missing/dim/ Likely to prevent width and presence of I i.e. the time between half an hour after
obscured/shows light of wrong colour/otherwise not vehicle being indicated adequately sunset and half an hour before sunrise,
in good working order. during compulsory use (see note 2). except on a road which is a restricted road.
A restricted road is a road with a 30mph
Likely to prevent width and presence of IN speed limit and street lamps placed no
vehicle being indicated adequately. more than 200 yards apart.
Obligatory rear lamp has intermittent operation, is - IN
affected by the operation of another lamp, does not
face the rear or is incorrectly positioned. Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Obligatory Rear Fog Lamps (see note 1)

13 Prohibition action should be taken when a
Obligatory rear fog lamp insecure. Detachment imminent. I
vehicle is encountered in the hours of
darkness and where it can reasonably be
Insecure advise early rectification. IN
assumed that vehicle is likely to be used
where compulsory use of dipped
Obligatory rear fog lamp inoperative/missing/ (see notes 3 and 4). IN
headlamps is required.
obscured/ incorrectly positioned/emits light of a
colour other than red/comes on with brake light. 14 Vehicles first used before 1 January 1971
need only one stop lamp. This lamp must
be fitted on the centre-line or offside of the
Obligatory Reflectors (see note 1) vehicle.
Obligatory reflector missing/deteriorated/incorrectly Detachment imminent. I 15 A “light source” means a bulb, an LED or
fitted/obscured/insecure. any other means of emitting light.
Otherwise than above. IN
Direction Indicators (see note 1) 16 End outline marker lamps are required on
Direction indicator insecure. Detachment imminent. I vehicles first used on or after 01 April 1991
that are wider than 2.1m (not class 3
Advise early rectification. IN vehicles).

Direction indicator inoperative/missing/not Indicator cannot be used to clearly show I 17 If more than 1 bulb or LED is fitted in the
functioning correctly/damaged/obscured/wrong the driver’s intention (see note 5, 6 & 7). lamp at least 50% must work.
colour/adversely affected by the operation of
another lamp. (See notes 17, 18 & 19) Multiple light source lamp more than D 18 Obscuration of lamps, provided at least
50% inoperative (see note 15). 50% of a lamp is visible this is not a
deficiency.
Multiple light source lamp up to 50% IN
inoperative (see note 15).
Continued overleaf...

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Direction indicator warning lamp inoperative/not If the warning lamp is inoperative or not IN
19 If two or more lamps are fitted and the
fitted. fitted and the driver cannot see that each
aggregated illuminated area occupies
indicator is functioning and there is no
60% or more of the area of smallest
audible tell-tale device.
rectangle circumscribing the illuminated
Hazard Warning Lamps (see note 1) area this should be treated as one lamp
Hazard warning lamp inoperative/not functioning (see note 6) IN For example, please see picture below, if
correctly. multiple lamps are fitted (3 brake lights in
this example), a rectangle is pictured
Obligatory Headlamps (see note 1,17,18 &19) around the illuminated area of all
Obligatory dipped headlamp inoperative/dim/ When use of headlamps is compulsory I adjacent lamps, where the illuminated
missing/obscured/not in good working order. (see notes 8, 9, 10, 11 & 13). surface occupies 60% or more of the
area within the rectangle, these lamps
When use of headlamps is not IN will be treated as one lamp.
compulsory (see note 11).
Advise early rectification IN
Multiple light source obligatory headlamp with More than 50% inoperative and use of D
In this example if two out of three lamps are
defective light source (see note 1 & 15). headlamps is compulsory
inoperative this is less than 50% and would
(see notes 8, 11, 12 & 13).
be a prohibition.
When use of headlamps not compulsory/ IN
up to 50% inoperative (see notes 8, 11 &
12).

Obligatory headlamp insecure or lens broken/ Detachment imminent. I

missing.
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Headlamp aim too high or too far to the right. Likely to cause dazzle when use of I
dipped headlamps is compulsory.

Advise early rectification. IN

Headlamp aim too low or too far to the left. Likely to prevent the driver from being I
able to drive safely when use of
dipped headlamps is compulsory.

Advise early rectification. IN

(see notes 9 and 10).

The dipped beam and/or main beam emitted from a Likely to cause dazzle when headlamp I
matched pair of obligatory headlamps cannot be use is compulsory.
switched on or off together or are not of the same
colour. Advise early rectification. IN

In any grouped obligatory headlamp system (i.e. Likely to cause dazzle when headlamp I
more than one matched pair) they cannot either be use is compulsory.
dipped in unison or when one matched pair is
dipped the other pair(s) are extinguished. Advise early rectification. IN

Headlamp light source and lamp not compatible - D

(see notes 1 and 15 ).

Headlamp cleaning device inoperative In the case of gas-discharging or LED D

(where mandatory). lamps.

Device inoperative for other types of IN

headlamp.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Stop Lamps (see notes 1, 17, 18 & 19)

Stop lamp inoperative/obscured/missing/dim/ No stop lamps show a steady red light to I
otherwise defective in operation. the rear when the brake is applied.

Stop lamp(s) remain on when all brakes I

are released.

Stop lamp missing or inoperative D

(see notes 14 and 15).

Multiple light source lamp with more than D

50% of sources are inoperative
(see notes 14 and 15).

Multiple light source lamp with up to 50% IN

inoperative (see note 15).

Stop lamps insecure. Detachment imminent. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Reversing Lamps (see note 1)

Reversing lamp insecure/otherwise defective. Detachment imminent. I

Defective advise early rectification. IN

Reversing lamp indicator inoperative. - IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Rear Registration Plate Lamps

Missing or inoperative. (during the hours of No registration plate lamps operating. D
darkness only).
Flickers when tapped. IN

At least one lamp or light source still IN

operating (see note 15).

Rear registration plate lamp on towing vehicle Inoperative or defective in operation. IN

coupled to a trailer.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Battery
Battery insecure. Likely to fall from vehicle or displacement I
constitutes risk of fire.

Advise early rectification. IN

Battery leaking or cell closures loose/missing. Electrolyte likely to cause imminent I

failure of items which could affect vehicle
safety or entering passenger
compartment.

Advise early rectification. IN

Switchgear and Wiring
Wiring insecure/inadequately insulated/insulation is Constitutes a fire risk. I
or will become ineffective due to chafing or heat.
Advise early rectification. IN

Lighting switch insecure/malfunctioning. - IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Road Wheels and Hubs (see note 2)

1 On certain wheels, abutting with slight
displacement is acceptable.
Missing wheel(s). - I
2 For spigot mounted wheels see IM6 part 1.
Wheel fractured or with a welding defect. Fractured. I 3 Manufacturer supplied ‘temporary use’ spares
(‘Space-Savers’) are acceptable.
With a welding defect. I
4 Private buses/restricted speed vehicles are
permitted ‘J’ or ‘K’ rated tyres provided they are
Wheel hub fractured, worn or damaged Failure or detachment imminent. I
of suitable capacity following deduction of any
(see note 2). load penalty.
Immediate failure or detachment unlikely. D
4a During vehicle examinations prohibition
action should only be taken if the tyre load
Index is below that appropriate for the
vehicle and if the tyre is obviously over
loaded.
Wheel stud holes elongated/damaged. If visible with wheel nuts in place or I
detachment likely. 4b The obvious overload could be established by
weighbridge figures or if the tyre is showing
signs of deterioration due to the overload, for
Any stud hole severely worn/ elongated. D
example, excessive over heating or damaged
structure.
Wheel stud or nut missing/loose/fractured/ More than one wheel nut/ stud is I
not clamping or fully locating in taper. missing, loose, fractured or obviously not 5 It cannot be assumed that, because either tyre
clamping or locating in road wheel taper. on a twin wheel is not in contact with the
ground when the vehicle is stationary on a
level surface, there is a difference in nominal
One of total for that wheel. D size.

Unless marked otherwise, “standard” car tyres

Foreign object trapped between twin wheel Likely to detach and cause damage or I have a nominal aspect ratio of 82%. These can
fitment. (See note 19) injury. be safely mixed with tyres with an aspect ratio
of 80%.
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
6 This does not apply to vehicles with twin or
extra wide tyres on the rear axle, or to tyres
Tyre retaining ring abutting/fractured or not properly The ring is visibly displaced from its I manufactured for (and fitted to) engineering
fitted (see note 1). seating and total displacement is plant. It also does not apply to vehicles with a
imminent. maximum speed not exceeding 30mph.
7 For example tyres with a directional tread
Not properly fitted. D pattern or asymmetrical tyre incorrectly fitted.

Wheel seriously distorted or worn. Affecting steering or vehicle stability. I 8 Re-cut tyres are permitted on;
 motor vehicles of unladen weight
Wheel or tyre likely to become detached. I exceeding 3050kg, between 2540kg and
3050kg if fitted to wheel rims exceeding
Badly distorted or worn. D 405mm (16”) diameter, and
 trailers of unladen weight exceeding
1020kg (2290kg total weight for fixed plant
carriers).
Wheel embellisher protruding or insecure. Sharp edges/points exposed, likely to I
cause injury or detachment imminent. 9 Bulging includes any lifting of the tread
rubber and must not be confused with
Advise early rectification. IN undulations which could be present due to
manufacturing imperfections.
Half shaft bolt/nuts/studs loose or missing. Loss of drive likely. I 10 (a) Cuts which are deep enough to reach
the cords or ply but are less than 25mm or
Immediate loss of drive unlikely / advise IN 10% of the section width, whichever is the
early rectification. greater, and have not damaged or exposed
the cords or ply do not breach the legal
Incompatible wheel fitted. Fouling other components where failure I requirements or tyres.
of the wheel/affected component is likely.
or affecting road safety. (b) “Exposed” for this purpose means the
cords are visible as seen by the naked eye
or in the case of a cut more than 25mm or
But early failure or risk to safety unlikely. IN 10% of the section width, can be made
visible with the use of a probe.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Spare Wheel 11 For tyre tread requirements for vehicles

with more than 8 passenger seats and
Spare wheel fractured/badly distorted/stud holes - IN goods vehicles exceeding 3500kg GDW
elongated. consult Part 1 of this document.
12 “Original tread pattern” means
Tyres
a. in the case of a re-treaded tyre, the tread
The nominal size, ply rating or load index/speed Tyre obviously overloaded (see note 4a I pattern immediately after the tyre was re-
rating of any tyre is below that appropriate for the & 4b). treaded.
vehicle. A tyre marked with a speed rating letter b. in the case of a wholly re-cut tyre, the
within the range A to K (see notes 3 and 4). No obvious overload (see note 4a & 4b). IN manufacturer’s re-cut tread pattern.
c. in the case of a partially re-cut tyre, on the part
that has been re-cut, the manufacturer’s re-cut
Tyres of different types/nominal sizes/aspect ratio Tyres of different type (i.e. cross ply or I tread pattern, and on the other part, the tread
fitted on the same axle. radial) fitted. pattern when the tyre was new.
d. in the case of any other tyre, the tread pattern
One tyre is of a different nominal size or D when the tyre was new.
aspect ratio from those on the same axle
e. Grooves which wear out before the main
(see notes 3 and 4).
grooves and other minor features such as sipes,
small lateral extensions to the circumferential
grooves and minor lateral grooving on the
Continued overleaf... shoulders are to be disregarded when
considering whether the “original tread pattern”
is visible.

13 As a general guide, the lift in a stub axle would

normally be considered excessive if greater
than 1.6mm.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

14 This inspection is also applicable to the

A tyre not fitted in accordance with the (see note 7). IN pins and bushes locating independent
manufacturers instructions. suspension arms and balance beam and
linkage pivots.
Tyre walls in contact. Caused by under inflation or incorrect IN
15 When some types of spring attachment
wheel fitting.
bracket or suspension bracket are fitted
there could be more holes in the bracket
Tyre bulging. Caused by separation or partial failure of I
than holes in the chassis. This would not
its structure (see note 9).
be a reason for action.
Tyre has a break in the fabric or deep cut And cord/cords exposed I 16 Delayed action only where a slipper is
(see notes 10a and 10b). worn to the extent that it could, at the time
of the inspection, clearly affect the
Deep cut or damage more than 25mm D movement or correct location of the road
or 10% of section width, whichever is spring or has allowed the spring leaf to
the greater, and cords/ply can be felt, damage the chassis.
but not seen by the use of a probe 17a The check for the display of tyre age code
(see note 10a).
markings applies to buses, coaches and
minibuses. The check of tyre age applies only
Minor cut or damage IN
to front steered axle(s) and minibus single
(see note 10a).
wheel fitment.
17b The requirements for tyre age and tyre age
Tyre seriously under inflated or incorrectly Likely to affect steering or, if laden, I markings will not apply to motor vehicles and
seated on the wheel rim. (See notes 20, 21 & 22) overload the other tyre on a twin fitment. trailers with a first use or manufacture date of
forty years and over and used for non-
Measured pressure is 50% or less of I commercial purposes
recommended pressure or pressure of
the other tyre on same axle.

Early failure unlikely. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Tyre tread worn beyond legal limit (see note 11). Depth of tread is not at least 1.6mm I 17c The tyre date code is only required to be
throughout a continuous band marked on one sidewall, therefore it may
(excluding tie-bars) situated in the not be possible to see the age markings
central three quarters of the breadth of of some twin wheel fitments, this is
tread, around the entire circumference. acceptable.
The base of any groove of the original IN 17d All tyres must be marked with a date
tread pattern is not clearly visible code, this is represented by a four-digit
(see note 12). code normally at the end of the DOT
marking (tyres with a three-digit code will
be in excess of 10 years old) On
recapped tyres the retread date must be
used.
Tyre fouling. Tyre damaged and/or likely to fail. I 17e For the purpose of aged tyres, the front
steered axle will be deemed forward of
Steering affected. I the chassis midpoint and directly
controlled by the steering system.
Advise early rectification. IN
17f Clear evidence tyre deterioration maybe
cracking, splitting or perishing etc

Re-cut tyre fitted to a vehicle which should not Fitted to a vehicle on which re-cut tyres D
18 To avoid confusion between wheel
have a re-cut tyre. are not permitted (see note 8).
bearing free play and king pin wear,
on any vehicle front steered axle, or I applying the brake will eliminate wheel
Tyre manufacturer date code in excess of 10
any axle on a minibus with a single bearing free play
years of age
wheel fitment (See notes 17a - 17f)
IN 19 For this defect the wording "twin wheel
on any axle other than vehicle front
fitment" also includes objects trapped
steered or minibus single wheel
between the tyres.
fitment (See notes 17a - 17f)

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

20 Examiners have the option to take a tyre

Tyre manufacture date code not legible/ with clear evidence of deterioration I pressure measurement on steered and
displayed on any vehicle front steered axle (See note 17a -17f) single wheel fitments where visual checks
or minibus single wheel fitment with no clear evidence of deterioration D indicate serious under-inflation of a
(See note 17a -17f) pneumatic tyre.
21 The recommended tyre pressures should be
used as a reference
Tyre manufacture date code not legible/ IN where possible.
(See note 17a -17f)
displayed other than a front steered axle or 22 Where no recommended tyre pressure value
minibus single wheel fitment is available or if there is doubt over marked
tyre pressures on the vehicle, proceed to
check the pressure across the same axle to
IN make a comparison check.
Tyre manufacture date code not visible on (See note 17a -17f)
twin wheel fitment The significance of defective shock
23
absorbers will vary according to the
suspension type. Prohibition action will be
appropriate only when it is clear that the
handling of the vehicle will be severely
affected.
e.g. in the case of multi-leaf steel springs
the effect of a missing shock
absorber will be less significant than with
Spare Tyre other road spring types.
Spare tyre bulging/fabric cut/fabric exposed/
tread worn below the legal limit. - IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Axles, Stub Axles and Wheel Bearings

24 Only where originally required/fitted.
Excessive lift in stub axles or swivel joints. Evidence of collapse of bearings/ joints I
or loss of shims.

But immediate failure unlikely. D

(see note 13).

Axle or Stub axle fractured or distorted. Fractured. I

Distorted D

Axle insecure. Stability or functionality affected. I

Insecure or fixing bolts loose. D

Excessive free play or roughness in wheel bearings Likely to collapse or impair directional I
(see note 18). control.

Excessive free play or roughness. D

But early failure unlikely. IN

Axle with an unsafe modification. - I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Springs
Spring leaf fractured. Main leaf fractured or more than half of I
the intermediate leaves broken.

Up to half the number of intermediate D

leaves fractured.

Spring weak. Bodywork fouling or is likely to foul road I

wheels if vehicle were laden or seriously
affecting vehicle’s stability and/or control.

No evidence of body fouling road wheels IN

or early failure of spring unlikely.

Spring leaves displaced/distorted/damaged/repaired Control of vehicle likely to be affected or I

by wielding. failure of the spring imminent.

Early spring failure or loss of control of IN

vehicle unlikely.

Spring centre bolt broken or missing. - I

Spring missing. And directional control affected. I

Unlikely to affect directional control. D

Spring clips loose, missing or broken. - IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Spring holding down bolts loose or missing. Axle moving relative to spring. I

No relative movement between axle and D

spring.

Coil spring incorrectly located, spring fractured or Detachment imminent/safe control of I

mounting loose. vehicle likely to be affected.

Safe control of the vehicle not likely to be D

affected.

Anchor/Shackle Pins

A suspension anchor/shackle pin missing/sheared. (see note 14). I

Anchor/shackle pin and/or bush excessively worn. Diametric clearance in excess of one I
third of pin diameter.

Significantly worn. D

Early failure unlikely. (see note 14). IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

A suspension anchor/ shackle pin insecure in its Pin displaced. I

bracket.
Significantly loose. D

Early displacement of pin unlikely. IN

(see note 14).

A suspension anchor/shackle pin locking device Missing or ineffective. I

missing/ineffective/insecurely fitted.
Insecurely fitted (see note 14). D
Spring Brackets

Spring slipper bracket excessively worn/fractured/ Spring displaced from slipper bracket. I
not securely fixed/rebound pin missing.
Advise early rectification (see note 16). D

Spring anchor bracket insecure/fractured or Detachment or failure imminent. I

otherwise defective.
Fractured or relative movement between D
bracket and chassis.

Any one nut, bolt or rivet missing/ IN

insecure (see note 15).

Spring bracket or mounting loose/fractured/seriously Detachment imminent. I

weakened by damage or corrosion.
Immediate detachment unlikely. D
(see note 15).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Torsion Bars
Torsion bar fractured/distorted. Fracture, displacement or distortion I
adversely affecting directional control.

which has no immediate effect on the D

control of vehicle.

Torsion bar anchorage loose. Detachment imminent or affecting I

vehicle control or axle location.

Immediate detachment unlikely / not D

immediately affecting control of vehicle
or axle location.
Bonded Units
A bonded attachment insecure/fractured/seriously Failure imminent. I
weakened due to damage/corrosion or failure of
bonding element. Immediate failure unlikely. D

Air Suspension
An air suspension unit or pipes displaced/damaged/ Failure imminent. I
fouling other components/seriously deteriorated/
leaking air. Immediate failure unlikely. D

Suspension Arms/Linkages/Sub-frames
An arm, linkage or sub frame fractured/displaced/ Fracture, displacement or distortion I
insecure/distorted/seriously weakened by corrosion adversely affecting directional control or
damage or wear/is adjustable and has a loose failure imminent.
adjustment or its locking device is insecure or
missing. Immediate failure unlikely / unlikely to D
affect control of vehicle immediately.
Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Radius arm insecure. Detachment imminent or likely to affect I

steering.
Immediate detachment unlikely. D
Shock Absorbers
Shock absorber missing/loose/fractured/ Missing, detachment imminent or likely I
malfunctioning. (See note 23) to affect steering. (See note 24)
Missing but not likely to affect steering. D
(See note 24)
Significant movement. D
Advise early rectification. IN
Shock absorber leaking. - IN

Anti-roll Bars
Anti-roll bar/stabiliser missing. Missing (if a standard fitting). I

Missing (not standard equipment). IN

Anti-roll bar/stabiliser insecure. Detachment imminent. I

No apparent danger of detachment / IN

advise early rectification / mountings
worn but not affecting vehicle handling.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Suspension Joints
Excessive wear in suspension ball joint. Detachment or failure imminent. I

No apparent danger of detachment or D

failure.

Advise early rectification. IN

Suspension Joint Dust Covers Missing or severely deteriorated so as D

Dust cover. to no longer prevent the ingress of dirt.

Deteriorated. IN

Suspension Displacers
Any hydro-pneumatic suspension displacer unit, pipes Excessive leakage indicating failure, or I
or hoses leaking. failure imminent.

Early failure unlikely. D

Displacers, pipes or mountings weakened by Failure imminent. I

corrosion.
No obvious signs of failure imminent. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

General

Fracture, serious distortion or excessive corrosion Failure or detachment imminent.

in a load bearing member within 30cm of any I
suspension component mounting.
Immediate failure or detachment unlikely. D

Suspension component with unsafe - I

modification (specify component).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Chassis and Attachments

1 For components normally fixed to the
Chassis main member/body structure/ cross Likely to affect control of the vehicle, safe I
chassis e.g. fuel tanks, brake reservoirs
member/outrigger severely corroded/seriously carriage of load or detachment of
etc. see other sections.
deformed/fractured/displaced/insecure/missing. component imminent.
2 This item includes the condition of any
IN flitch plates that are fitted.
3 Only applicable to vehicles with separate
carriers or wheels mounted on the
Excessive corrosion, cracks or damage of a load Detachment imminent. I underbody.
bearing member within 30cm of a body mounting.
Advise early rectification. IN 4 For information regarding fifth wheel
defects refer to Part 1 of this document.
5 Some couplings do not require a safety
locking device. Action must only be taken
where there is clear evidence that a device
Spare wheel carrier fractured/ insecure or wheel Detachment imminent and likely to fall I
is, or has been, fitted.
insecure (see note 3). from vehicle.
6 Applies to trailers exceeding 750kg total
Carrier fractured or insecure. D design axle(s) weight, manufactured on or
after 1 April 1995 and all trailers
Wheel insecure in carrier. D manufactured on or after 1 January 1997.

Advise early rectification. IN 7 Trailers with a maximum design total

axle(s) weight exceeding 750kg and up to
1500kg must be fitted with either a
'breakaway device' or 'secondary coupling'.

8 Trailers with a maximum design total

axle(s) weight exceeding 1500kg and up to
3500kg must be fitted with a 'breakaway
device'.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Trailer Coupling (See Note 4)

Coupling on Vehicle Trailers with a maximum design total axle(s)
9
weight up to 750kg which are unbraked must
Unsafe modification. To any coupling component (specify I be fitted with a 'secondary coupling', where
component). brakes are fitted a 'breakaway device' or
'secondary coupling' must be fitted.
Deformed or cracked pin, jaw, hook or ball. Trailer security adversely affected. I

Mounting of jaw, hook or ball to chassis insecure. Failure or detachment imminent. I

Locking device missing, inadequate, damaged or ill- Locking device ineffective. I

fitting.
No apparent risk that device is D
ineffective.

Worn pin, jaw, hook or ball. Thickness of metal at any point reduced I
to 2/3 or less of its original thickness and
trailer attached.

No trailer attached. D

Ball excessively worn. Worn to such an extent that the safe I

coupling of the trailer is unlikely to be
achieved.

Defective requires rectification. D

Safety locking device missing/not operating. (see note 5) D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Excessive wear in or insecurity of any member or Failure or detachment imminent I

securing device. (trailer attached).

Failure or detachment imminent D

(no trailer attached).

Security spring weak or broken. Broken and trailer attached. I

Weak / advise early rectification. IN

A load bearing part of coupling cracked. Failure or detachment likely (trailer I

attached).

Defective requires rectification. D

Coupling on Trailer
Unsafe modification. To any coupling component (specify I
component).

Draw bar cracked or deformed. Seriously cracked or fractured. I

So seriously deformed that use would I

cause danger.

Advise early rectification. IN

Mounting of draw bar to trailer insecure. Failure or detachment imminent. I

Defective requires rectification. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Draw bar eye or ball socket deformed, cracked or Trailer security affected. I
excessively worn.
No apparent risk of trailer security D
being affected.

Locking device missing, inadequate, damaged or ill- Locking device ineffective. I

fitting.
Inadequate/damaged/ill-fitting requires D
rectification.

King pin attachment excessively worn, cracked or - I

insecure.

Worn operating member. Detachment imminent. I

No apparent risk of imminent
IN
detachment.

Advise early rectification. IN

Worn draw bar attachment pins and brackets. I

to 2/3 or less of its original
thickness.

Significant reduction in thickness. D

‘Breakaway’ cable/chain missing/damaged/ (see notes 6- 9) D

defective.

‘Secondary coupling’ cable/chain missing/ (see notes 6- 9) D

damaged/ defective.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Security of Load (see notes 10 to 22)

No load securing (see note 20). I 10 Unless other suitable means of preventing
Insecure load that shows evidence of movement movement have been used.
or is likely to move and presents an immediate Load securing is grossly inadequate I
danger or is likely to cause danger of injury. either because of its condition, A single indivisible item may be loaded
11
securing method or lack of lashings. over the height of the headboard if the
headboard supports it to the height of the
More than a 30 cm gap between load I centre of gravity.
and headboard (see note 10).
This is poor practice but there may be no
Unstable load affecting vehicle stability I 12
other suitable attachment points.
or likely to topple from vehicle.
13 Curtains that are bulging due to wood-chip
Bulkhead damaged or not completely I
protecting the passenger compartment loads can be considered as IN provided
from forward movement of the load they are carried in a chip liner.
(see note 10).
14 Unless a rigid cover or a rated sheet
Items loaded over the height of the completely covers and secures the load
I
headboard (see notes 10, 11). without any gaps.

Unsheeted load in bulk tipper, skip or I 15 Any winch cable should be attached but is
sided flatbed body. not classed as securing. Damaged vehicles
can be secured by lashing over the vehicle.
Load in a tipper above the height of I
the fixed sides (see note 14). 16 Unless secured on a commercial
transporter vehicle.

Continued overleaf... Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Security of Load (see notes 10 to 22) Height of load likely to affect vehicle 16a Where drivers face an immediate danger
I
stability. or risk of serious personal injury they
should secure the vehicle as best they can
Items loaded at an angle over the I and move at low speed to the nearest
headboard without a minimum of two place of safety where the load can be
loop (choke) securing lashings secured.
(see note 18).
17 Two lashings or a suitable restraint
No tailboard to prevent the rearward I system must be used to prevent the
movement of the load on sided flatbed external frame being damaged.
vehicle or trailer (see note 10, 20).
18 Unless individually clamped to the
Less than two lashings on a filled IBC I headboard.
(see note 17).
19 The load must be stable on the vehicle
Loose unrestrained items that could bed and secured to an approved standard.
I
penetrate the passenger compartment.
20 Walking pace door-to-door coal delivery is
Insecure skip. I exempted from the requirement to secure
the load.
Stacked loaded skips (see note 19). I
21 Skips must not be stacked so high that the
Stacked empty skips not nested and centre line of the top skip is above the
I
secured by lashings (see notes 19, height of the lifting arms when stowed.
21).
22 For example, polystyrene packaging,
empty cardboard boxes or loose clothing.

Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Security of Load (see notes 10 to 22)

Vehicles not secured by lashings on I
all wheels (see notes 15, 16 and 16a).

Loose items on a flatbed (see note I

20).

Loose tyres carried in a curtainsider I

(see note 10).

Insecure load carried on roof rack/rail. I

Load carried directly on roof. I

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Insecure load. Lashings on rope hooks (see note 12). IN

Minor damage to the headboard not IN

affecting the structural integrity.

Unsuitable vehicle for load. IN

(see note 13).

Poor condition of securing equipment IN

but not affecting its function.

Very light items adequately contained IN

by curtains. (see note 22).

Load appears safe but not secured in IN

accordance with published guidance.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Engine Security 23 A missing or ineffective fuel cap and or

Engine mounting fractured, deteriorated or insecure. I sealing arrangement is considered
Engine detachment imminent. sufficient evidence to ‘permit’ fuel spillage
and will justify prohibition action.
Advise early rectification. IN
Fuel Tank and System 24 Fabricated and “Emergency” caps are
acceptable providing they make a positive
Fuel tank or other system components insecure. Detachment imminent. I seal. Use of rags, plastic bags etc. in place
of a fuel cap must be regarded as a defect.
Significantly insecure. D
25 Before justifying prohibition action care
IN should be taken to ensure there are no
Advise early rectification. other sealing mechanisms in the filler neck
or tank, which prevents the spillage of fuel.
Fuel leakage from (specify source). Continuous fuel leak or a leak I 26 A fuel leak caused by a defect,
constituting a fire risk or a hazard to other contaminating the road surface will be
road users (see note 26). considered a hazard to other road users
and will justify prohibition action.
No immediate risk of fire or hazard to IN
others / Advise early rectification. 27 Prohibition action for excessive wear of
universal joint is only justified when radial
Fuel tank filler cap and/or sealing arrangement Such as to permit fuel spillage and cause movement indicates that needle roller
I bearings are missing from one or more
missing/defective. a hazard to the vehicle and/ or other road
users (see notes 23, 24 & 25). cups.
28 Vehicles first registered on or after 1
Likely to allow spillage. IN October 1937 are required to be fitted with
a speedometer unless the vehicle is legally
limited to a speed not exceeding 25mph or
Fuel pipe damaged/chafed/insecure. Likely to fracture or leak. I is one which is incapable by reason of its
construction of exceeding 25mph.
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Exhaust System 29 This applies to the driver’s and front

Exhaust system incomplete/insecure/leaking. Fumes likely to enter vehicle interior or I passenger doors on a car or any door on
detachment imminent. a bus, but if the door opposite to the
Significant deterioration. D driving side of a goods vehicle is rendered
inoperative deliberately, it must be
considered to be an integral part of the
Exhaust silencer holed, missing or modified. Does not reduce the noise emitted to a D cab.
reasonable level.
30 Most bonnets are fitted with two securing
methods and due regard must be taken of
the effectiveness of both where fitted.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes
Drive/Propeller Shafts
Drive/propeller shaft damaged. Bent, fouling or fractured and failure I
imminent.
Other significant damage. D
Early Failure unlikely. IN

Universal joint/transmission chain/transmission belt/ Failure or detachment likely. I

flexible coupling excessively worn, flange cracked or
insecure on the drive/propeller shaft Significantly defective. D
(see note 27).
Advise early rectification. IN
Drive/propeller shaft flange bolts loose/missing. Shaft likely to become detached. I

Causing significant insecurity. D

Advise early rectification. IN

Drive/propeller shaft carrier bearing or bearing Failed or failure imminent. I
housing badly worn, damaged or mounting
insecure. Other significant defect. D
Advise early rectification. IN
Front Wheel Drive Shafts Only
CV joint or shaft coupling excessively worn. CV Bearings collapsed or excessively worn, I
gaiter split, missing or insecure. splines excessively worn or coupling/joint

.
Significantly deteriorated component. D
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Driving Controls
Driving control missing/incomplete/fractured/ Control so defective or impeded in its I
damaged/excessively corroded/impeded in its travel/ travel that it fails to fulfill its function.
incorrectly positioned/insecure (specify component).
Advise early rectification. IN

Clutch pedal anti-slip pad loose/deteriorated. If originally fitted. IN

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Any component forming part of ADAS missing/ Advise early rectification when it is IN
damaged/disconnected/malfunctioning. evident that the system is defective.

Driver’s Area and Fittings

Floor around driver insecure/badly weakened. Affects driving control or safety of driver. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Driver’s seat loose on its mounting or frame Seat so loose or weakened that it could I
fractured or seriously weakened. cause the driver to lose control of the
vehicle.

Advise early rectification. IN

Driver’s seat adjustment inoperative/badly worn. Seat likely to move inadvertently or I

cannot be located.

Seat cannot be adjusted. IN

Continued overleaf....

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Component/fitting in driver’s area damaged. Damaged or installed in such a way as I

likely to cause injury.

Advise early rectification. IN

Obligatory rear view mirror(s), glass or indirect No adequate view to rear or side. I
vision device missing/insecure/damaged.
External mirror or indirect vision I
device likely to become detached.

Advise early rectification. IN

Driver’s view to the front impaired having Any object seriously impairing driver’s
I
regard to the original design of the vehicle. view throughout the area swept by the
windscreen wipers.

Advise early rectification. IN

Speedometer not fitted/incomplete/cannot (see note 28) IN

be illuminated/inoperative/cannot be readily
seen by driver.

Horn missing/insecure/inoperative. Detachment imminent. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Continued overleaf....

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Driver’s area littered with rubbish/ancillary Liable to interfere with proper control of I
equipment. the vehicle.

Advise early rectification. IN

Passenger Seats
Passenger seat insecure. Likely to become displaced. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Passenger seat frame fractured or seat damaged. Likely to cause injury. I

Likely to tear clothing. D

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Body Paneling

Exterior body panel damaged/missing/protruding/ Likely to become detached or to cause I

insecure/corroded. injury or permit the load to be shed or
leaked.

Advise early rectification. IN

Interior side panel/damaged/missing/protruding/ Likely to cause injury I

insecure.
Advise early rectification. IN

Any embellishment protruding/damaged/insecure Likely to become detached or to cause I

(specify component). injury

Advise early rectification. IN

Unsafe modification to body work. - I

(specify component).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Passenger compartment

Passenger compartment in a condition which allows Causing danger to health of persons on I

entry of engine or exhaust fumes. board.

No immediate danger to health of D

persons on board.

Body or cab

Body or cab insecure. Affecting control of vehicle. I

Unlikely to affect control of vehicle. D

Floor of cab and passenger/load carrying area

Cab or passenger/load carrying compartment floor Likely to cause injury or loss of control or I
deteriorated or insecure. loss of load.

Excessively deteriorated or insecure. D

Bumpers

Bumper insecure or damaged. Detachment likely either partially or I

completely or having projections or
jagged edges likely to cause injury.

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Wings and Wheel Arches

Wing missing. Presenting a risk of injury. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Wing insecure. Detachment likely or rubbing on a tyre. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Wing badly holed/corroded/damaged. Holed/corroded/damaged such that I

edges are likely to cause injury.

Advise early rectification. IN

Insufficient clearance between wing and tyre. Wing rubbing or likely to rub on tyre, I
particularly when laden, and thereby
cause damage to the tyre or a danger of
injury e.g. fire risk, steering affected etc.

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Body, structure and attachments
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Doors
Door jammed/obstructed/cannot be opened. Jammed, obstructed or deliberately I
secured so that it cannot be opened
(see note 29).

Door, boot lid, tailgate, loading door, tailboard, drop - I

side cannot be retained in the closed position.

Door hinges/catches/pillars worn/loose/insecure/ Door cannot be latched securely in the I

weakened. closed position or could fly open
inadvertently.

Advise early rectification. IN

Door stiff to operate. Unable to fully open or close. I

Advise early rectification. IN

Sliding door jammed/cannot be secured in the open Jammed or cannot be secured. I

or closed positions/cannot be opened and closed
without excessive effort (see note 29). Advise early rectification. IN

Bonnet
Bonnet catches missing/ damaged/defective Bonnet could inadvertently open I
(see note 30). obscuring driver’s view.

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 7
Other equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Seat Belts and Supplementary Restraint 1 The legal requirements for the fitment of
Systems seat belts are complex and are not
Any obligatory seat belt not fitted where legally Seat in use. I included in this Guide. For further details
required. (see note 1). please refer to the appropriate Inspection
Seat not in use. D Manual for the class of vehicle being
examined.
Seat belt of an incorrect type. - D 2 *If applicable to vehicle type and when
first used.
Any obligatory or non-obligatory seat belt not - Examiners will need to gather sufficient
D
securely fixed to the seat or to the structure of the evidence to show the speed limiter has not
vehicle. become defective during the current
journey, i.e. over speeding for more than
Any obligatory or non-obligatory seat belt webbing Significantly stretched or weakened and 10kph within any of the previous 7 days.
I
or stalk significantly stretched, weakened, likely to fail when required (if the belt is
3 Prohibition action should not be taken if
damaged or deteriorated (see note 5). in use). the driver can produce evidence of speed
limiter repair from the last recorded over
A cut or serious deterioration in any part D speed.
of the seat belt webbing or a seat belt
stalk. Some speed limiters do not require the
4
fitting of external tamper-proof devices.
Webbing or stalk significantly stretched D Action must only be taken where there is
or weakened (belt not in use). clear evidence that a device has been
disturbed/removed or is defective.
Any obligatory or non-obligatory seat belt locking Likely to fail when required (belt in use). I
mechanism or retraction mechanism faulty. 5 As a guide, cuts or damage on either edge
Mechanism does not secure or release of the webbing in excess of 2mm or in
D
the belt as intended when the webbing excess of 4mm away from the webbing
is pulled, webbing does not retract. edges, are likely to significantly reduce the
webbing strength.
Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 7
Other equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Any obligatory or non-obligatory seat belt with load Obviously missing and original D 6 Advice should be given when a seat belt
limiter obviously missing or folded webbing type equipment. buckle has been modified to prevent it from
deployed. being opened by a vulnerable person, if
Folded webbing type limiter deployed. D the seat belt requires additional tools/keys
to enable it to be opened.
Any seat belt, buckle or retractor modified and not Seat belt in use.
I
capable of performing its intended purpose or likely
to fail when required. (see note 6) Seat belt not in use. D

Excessive corrosion, serious distortion or a fracture Anchorage likely to detach in a collision. I

in any load bearing part of the vehicle structure
within 30cm of a seat belt anchorage. Within 30cm of seatbelt anchorage. D

Supplementary Restraint Systems SRS MIL indicates any kind of failure of D

An SRS MIL illuminated. the system.

Air Bags Obviously missing when fitted as D

Air bag inoperative or obviously missing. original equipment.

Obviously inoperative. D

Locks and Anti-theft Device Inadvertently engaging. I

Steering lock defective or missing.
Defective. IN

Does not prevent vehicle from being IN

driven.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 7
Other equipment
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Speed Limiter (see note 2)

Speed limiter not restricting the vehicle to its legal Evidence of intent to circumvent the I
maximum. speed restrictions.

Speed in excess of 10 Kph for more than I

5 minutes (see note 2).

Evidence of long standing defect, speed D

in excess of 10 Kph for more than 7 days
(see note 3).

Speed limiter plate missing/defective. - IN

Speed limiter tamperproof device missing/defective/ - D

showing evidence of disturbance. (see note 4.)

Any interrupter device fitted to the vehicle in - I

contravention of the requirements.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 8
Nuisance
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Exhaust Emission
1 Petrol Engines: A visual assessment of
Diesel engine exhaust emitting excessive smoke Sufficient to obscure vision or likely to I
exhaust smoke can be made on all
(see notes 1 and 2). cause danger to other road users.
vehicles. The prescribed limits for the
various exhaust emission components,
Smoke levels exceed annual test D requiring an exhaust gas analyser to
standard. measure, are to be applied to vehicles first
used on or after 1 August 1975.
Emits continuous haze of any colour. IN
2 Diesel Engines: A visual assessment of
exhaust smoke can be made on all
Spark ignition exhaust emitting excessive levels of I vehicles.
Sufficient to obscure vision or likely to
pollutants (see notes 1 and 2). cause danger to other road users. 3 Prohibition action must be supported by
positive evidence that the emission system
Emission levels exceed the annual test D has been affected.
standard.
4 Prohibition action should only be taken
where a fault is clearly identified. Where it
Continuous emission of dense blue or D is not clear the MIL is indicating a fault with
clearly visible black smoke at idle.
the system, inspection notice action should
be taken. The reagent tank must be empty
Within annual test limits but emits IN to justify prohibition action.
continuous haze of any colour.
5 When considering several leaks, due
regard must be given to the cumulative
effect which could justify prohibition action.

6 A leak of fluid such as engine coolant,

screen wash or fluid required for Selective
Catalyst Reduction are not reasons to take
PG9 or Inspection Notice action.
Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 8
Nuisance
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Emission Control Equipment 7 Applies only to fluids not covered

elsewhere in this manual.
Emissions Control equipment fitted by the Absent, modified, obviously defective or D
manufacturer. component leaking such that it would The inspection of the engine MIL applies to
affect emission measurement 8
diesel fuelled vehicles with 4 or more
(see note 3). wheels first used on or after 01 July 2008

Engine malfunction indicator lamp illuminated or D 9 The inspection of the engine MIL applies to
Indicating a fault or insufficient reagent
not following correct sequence. spark ignition engines fitted to; petrol
(see note 4, 8, 9 & 10).
vehicles with 4 or more wheels, not more
Advise early rectification. IN than 8 passenger seats in addition to the
driver's seat and first used on or after 01
July 2003; petrol vehicles with 4 or more
wheels, more than 8 passenger seats in
Fluid Leaks (See notes 5, 6 and 7) addition to the driver's seat and first used
on or after 01 July 2008; gas and bi-fuelled
with 4 or more wheels, not more than 8
Fluid leak from (Specify component) Continuous flow I passenger seats in addition to the driver's
seat and first used on or after 01 July 2008.

Dripping giving rise to a patch in excess D 10 Kit cars, amateur built vehicles and
of 75mm diameter in 5 minutes. American pickups are not required to be
fitted with an engine MIL.
Dripping giving rise to a patch less than IN
75mm diameter in 5 minutes.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 9
Supplementary Tests for Buses and Coaches (M2 & M3 Vehicles)
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Entrance and Exit Doors

Entrance / exit door deteriorated, defective, control Deteriorated and likely to cause injury. I
inoperative or warning device inoperative.
Defective in operation. D

Emergency / remote control inoperative. D

Warning device inoperative. D

Deteriorated. IN
Emergency Exits
Emergency exit missing where one is required / Missing / defective / access blocked or D
defective / access blocked or obstructed / obstructed / emergency exit sign
emergency exit sign missing. missing.

Break glass hammer missing. - D

Emergency exit sign illegible . - IN

Passenger Grab Handles
Grab handle insecure / unusable or defective. Likely to detach and/or cause injury. I

Insecure or unusable. D
Defective. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 9
Supplementary Tests for Buses and Coaches (M2 & M3 Vehicles)
Part 2: Passenger Cars, Private Buses and Light Goods Vehicles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steps and Stairs

Steps and stairs deteriorated or damaged. Deteriorated or damaged and causing a I
trip hazard.

Significantly deteriorated or damaged. D

Minor deterioration or damage. IN

A retractable step not operating correctly. - D

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 Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency

Part 3: Motorcycles

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Contents
Part 3: Motorcycles

Section 0: Identification of the Vehicle Page Section 4: Lamps, Reflectors & Electrical Page Section 6: Structure and Attachments Page
Equipment
Registration Plate and VIN Details 235 Front Position Lamps Engine and Transmission Security 259
246
Rear Position Lamps Transmission 259
246
All Lamps 247 Clutch & Throttle Controls 260
Section 1: Brakes Oil Leaks 261
Reflectors 248
Direction Indicators Exhaust Emission 261
Systems 236 248
Headlamps Fuel Tank and System 261
Performance 236 249
Stop Lamps Exhaust System 262
Controls 236 250
Battery Frame 263
Hydraulic Systems 237 251
Switchgear and Wiring Fairing 263
Mechanical Components 239 251
Accessories 263
Complete Braking System 241
Seat/Footrests 263

Section 5: Wheels, Tyres and Suspension Sidecar 264

Section 2: Steering
Wheels 252
Handlebars 242 Tyres Section 7: Audible Warning
254
Steering Mechanism 243 Front Suspension 256
Steering Linkage 244 Rear Suspension Horn 265
257
General 258

Section 3: Section 8: Exhaust Noise

Not in use Exhaust Noise 266

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 0
Identification of the vehicle
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Registration and VIN Plate Details

1 Unregistered vehicles need not be fitted
Registration mark letters or numbers incorrectly Likely to be misread. D
with registration plates
formed.
2 A three-wheeled vehicle, which has a
A rear registration plate missing (see notes 1 & 2). Missing when legally required. D motorcycle derived front end does not
require a front number plate
A Rear registration plate broken/incomplete/faded/ Likely to be misread. D 3 Where the registration plate does not relate
dirty/deteriorated/obscured or with any feature that to the DVLA record the VIN should be used
has the effect of changing the appearance or to identify the vehicle on the Prohibition
legibility of any of the characters, so that the true Notice.
identity of the vehicle is less easily established.
4 All motorcycles first used on or after
Registration plate incorrect. Registration mark does not relate to the D 01/08/1999 must have a VIN or frame
vehicle. number.

A registration plate insecure. Likely to become detached. I

A vehicle identification number missing, not found, Missing or not found. D

incomplete, illegible or obviously falsified
(see note 4). Incomplete, illegible or obviously D
falsified.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Systems
1 Motorcycles first registered before 1
The machine does not have the appropriate braking (see notes 1,2 and 3) I
January 1927 must have a braking system
system or systems.
that works on at least one wheel.
Performance 2 Motorcycles registered on or after 1
Any brake does not operate when the relevant lever/ - I January 1927, must have an efficient
pedal is fully applied. braking system with two means of
operation or two braking systems with
Brake efficiency low (specify). Performance does not meet prescribed I separate means of operation.
C&U requirements (see note 4). 3 Some motorcycles have both braking
systems operated from the handlebars.
Performance below normal expectation. IN
4 Where machines are tested on approved
Brake binding. I MOT equipment the appropriate Inspection
Manual criteria must be used.
5 When immediate action is taken this must
Failure unlikely or no visible fire risk. D be reinforced with evidence that the
efficiency is impaired, i.e. brake test result.
Brake grabbing or juddering or fluctuating. Such as to affect control of machine. I
6 Some machines are fitted with fully floating
Control of the machine unaffected. IN discs which are designed to have sideways
Controls movement on the bobbins.
Brake lever/pedal or mounting is loose, cracked or Failure or detachment of the lever/pedal I 7 Brake fluid level and contamination checks
the securing bolts are loose or missing. likely. are confined to transparent reservoirs or
where an indicator is fitted. Reservoir caps
Brake lever/pedal pivots too tight or worn to excess/ Brake efficiency impaired or control I should not be removed.
inoperative or so damaged, positioned, bent or cannot be satisfactorily applied.
shortened that the brake cannot be readily applied/ Continued overleaf...
inadequate reserve travel/cannot be applied and Braking application or efficiency D
released smoothly. unaffected.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Hydraulic Systems
8 Brake friction material lining/pad worn to
Brake master cylinder/reservoir or caliper insecure. Detached or detachment imminent. I
excess is less than 1.0mm thick at any
point, a visual assessment is acceptable
No visible signs of detachment is D
providing the friction material can be
imminent.
seen. Prohibition action should only be
taken where the lining or pad friction
Brake master cylinder or caliper damaged/ Failed or failure imminent. I
material thickness can be positively
incorrectly fitted/fractured/severely corroded/
confirmed.
reservoir cap missing. Immediate failure unlikely. D

Brake master cylinder defective or leaking. Leaking. I

Defective but brake still operating. D

Brake calliper or cylinder leaking/excessive travel/no Braking performance affected. I

reserve travel.
No reserve travel and brake performance I
affected.

Braking performance not affected. D

Excessive travel. D

Servo defective/ineffective or inoperative. Inoperative. I

Defective or ineffective. D

Brake hose/pipe damaged/chafed/insecure/fouling/ Failed or failure imminent. I

trapped/twisted/kinked/corroded.
No Risk of failure evident. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake hose bulging or porous. Bulging under pressure. D

Porous. D

Brake fluid level low (see note 7). Absence of fluid in reservoir. I

Fluid level clearly below the minimum D

level indication.

Obvious but does not appear excessive IN

or dangerous.

Brake fluid contaminated (see note 7). Obviously contaminated and brake I
function affected.

Obviously contaminated D

Hydraulic cylinder leaking or sponginess indicating Brake lever or pedal creeps to the stop, I
air in system. or obvious leak.

Brake lever or pedal creeps but does not D

reach the stop.

Brake fluid leak (specify source). Any positive hydraulic leak. I

Obvious but does not appear excessive IN
or dangerous.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Mechanical Components Where contamination is clearly evident D

Severely contaminated pad/lining material. and likely to affect performance but
brake test equipment not available to
confirm (see note 5).

Any brake components excessively worn/corroded/ Failed or failure imminent. I

fractured/cracked/loose (specify component).
Serious reduction in strength. D

Obvious but does not appear excessive IN

or dangerous.

Any brake cable or rod reduced in diameter/ Failed or failure imminent. I

excessively corroded/frayed or knotted; a
significantly damaged outer casing. Serious reduction in strength. D

Obvious but does not appear excessive IN

or dangerous.

Any retaining/locking device missing/loose (specify Retaining device missing/loose. I

component).
Retaining device insecure or locking D
device missing or insecure.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Brake friction material, lining or pad missing/ Missing, worn below 1.0mm, detached/ I
excessively worn/loose/incorrectly mounted/ detachment imminent, incorrectly
insecure. mounted, metal to metal contact or
braking efficiency impaired (see notes 5
and 8).

Linings worn to excess, minimum mark

D
reached but not exceeded.

Defective but does not appear

excessive or dangerous. IN

Brake friction material not contacting drum or disc and braking efficiency impaired (Note 5) I

Brake drum/disc/backplate/insert loose/fractured/ Likely to affect brake performance/failed I

excessively scored/pitted/worn or distorted. or failure imminent (see note 6).

Unlikely to affect brake performance. D

Brake drum or disc missing. - I

Abnormal movement of lever or pedal indicating Likely to affect brake performance/failed I

maladjustment. or failure imminent (see note 5).

Unlikely to affect brake performance. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 1
Brakes
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Any component seized/restricted/fouling (specify Likely to affect brake performance. I

component).
Unlikely to affect brake performance. D

Any component forming part of an anti-lock braking Such that the ABS system is rendered D
system missing/damaged/disconnected. inoperative or spurious signals are given.

Advise early rectification. IN

Complete Braking System

Braking system component with an unsafe - I
modification (specify component).

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Handlebars
1 Handlebars on some machines are rubber
Handlebar clamps are not tight or securing bolts are Handlebars likely to move in their I
mounted. Some movement might be
loose or missing. Excessively deteriorated mounting such that directional control
detected when firm pressure is applied to
handlebar flexible mounting. could be adversely affected (see note 1).
handlebars secured in this way.

No evidence of directional control being D

adversely affected.

Handlebar or fork yoke is deformed, fractured, Failure of the handlebar or yoke likely. I
cracked or excessively corroded.

The movement of the handlebars or yoke is Likely to affect directional control. I

seriously restricted or impeded in its movement by
any other part of the motorcycle.
Unlikely to affect directional control. D

Loose handgrips. Affecting control of the machine or I

detachment likely.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steering Mechanism
Steering rough, notchy or stiff. Likely to affect directional control of the I
machine.
Unlikely to affect directional control. D

Does not appear excessive or IN

dangerous.

Excessive free play in steering head bearings. Likely to affect directional control of the I
machine.

Steering damper ineffective or defective. Restricts or impedes the operation of the I

steering or is likely to affect directional
control of the machine.
Does not restrict or impeded operation of D
steering.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 2
Steering
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Steering linkage Condition

A steering linkage component with relative Excessive movement between I
movement between components which should be components or detachment likely.
fixed.
Relative movement between D
components.

Steering linkage component fractured or deformed. To the extent that steering is affected. I

Fractured or deformed. D

Steering linkage locking device missing or - D

ineffective (specify device).

Steering linkage or component with an unsafe - I

modification (specify component).

Steering ball joint worn. Serious risk of detachment. I

Excessive wear or free play. D

Steering ball joint dust cover missing/damaged/ Missing or no longer prevents the ingress D
deteriorated. of dirt.

Damaged or deteriorated. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 3
Not in use
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Not in use

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, Reflectors and Electrical Equipment
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Obligatory Front Position Lamps (see note 1)

1 No lamps or reflectors are required to be
Obligatory front position lamp insecure. Detachment imminent. I
fitted to vehicles only used on roads
between sunrise and sunset.
Unlikely to become detached. IN
A front position lamp is not required on a
Obligatory front position lamp inoperative/missing/ - IN
solo motorcycle fitted with a headlamp.
dim/obscured/not in good working order
(see notes 1 and 8).
Direction indicators are not required on
motorcycles which cannot exceed 25mph.
Obligatory front position lamp has intermittent - IN
operation, does not face the front, is affected by the
operation of another lamp. When visibility is seriously reduced (to less
than 100 metres), the use of dipped
headlamps and side lamps is required by
Regulation.
Obligatory Rear Position Lamps (see note 1) 2 The criteria must be the inability of the
Obligatory rear lamp insecure. Lamp so insecure that detachment is I driver to signal intention to change
imminent. direction. If arm signals or remaining
indicator lamps fulfil this purpose the
Detachment unlikely. IN Inspection Notice action only will be
appropriate.
Obligatory rear lamp inoperative/missing/dim/ Likely to prevent the presence of the I
obscured/not in good working order. vehicle being indicated adequately 3 Where a defective headlamp is part of a
(see notes 1 and 8). during compulsory use. grouped system, consideration must be
given to the capability of other headlamps
Can be switched off when headlamps D in that group.
are on. 4 An immediate prohibition will normally only
be appropriate for such a defect in
Advise early rectification. IN conditions of seriously reduced visibility or
at night.
Continued overleaf...

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, Reflectors and Electrical Equipment
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Obligatory rear lamp has intermittent operation, - IN

5 If the degree of misalignment of the
does not face the rear, is affected by the operation
headlamp aim does not warrant an
of another lamp.
immediate prohibition, but an instrumented
check shows that the headlamp aim falls
All Lamps
outside the statutory test limits, an
A lamp, emitted colour/position or intensity not in Showing red light to the front / white light D
inspection notice should be issued.
accordance with requirements (specify). to the rear or with heavily reduced light
intensity. 6 Some motorcycles are not required to be
fitted with stop lamps. These are as
Colour/position/intensity not in IN follows:
accordance with the requirements. a cannot exceed 25mph (see
distinguishing plate on machines
used on or after 1 August 1997).
b was first used before 1 January 1936
or
c was first used before 1 April 1986
which has an engine capacity of less
than 50cc.
7 On motorcycles first used on or after 1 April
1986 the stop lamp must operate by the
application of each system.
8 A light source means a bulb, an LED or any
other means of emitting light.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, Reflectors and Electrical Equipment
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Obligatory Reflectors (see note 1)

Obligatory reflector missing/deteriorated/incorrectly Detachment imminent. I
fitted/obscured/insecure.
Defective or damaged by more 50% of D
reflecting surface / missing / reflecting
white to the rear.

Insecure / incorrectly fitted / obscured / IN

deteriorated or damaged by up to 50% of
reflecting surface.

Direction Indicators (see notes 1 and 8)

Direction indicator insecure. Detachment imminent. I

Detachment not imminent. IN

Direction indicator inoperative/dim/missing/ Indicator cannot be used to clearly show I

obscured/more than 50% of light sources the driver’s intention (see note 2)
inoperative.
More than 50% of light sources D
inoperative.

Advise early rectification. IN

Direction indicator warning light inoperative/not The warning light is inoperative or not IN
fitted. fitted and the rider cannot see that each
indicator is functioning.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, Reflectors and Electrical Equipment
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Obligatory Headlamps (see notes 1 and 8)

Obligatory dipped headlamp inoperative/missing/ When use of headlamps is compulsory. I
obscured/more than 50% of light sources
inoperative. When use of headlamps is not IN
compulsory (see note 3).

Headlamps (see note 1 )

Headlamp insecure/or lens broken/missing. Detachment imminent. I

Insecure but imminent detachment IN

unlikely.

Headlamp aim too high or too far to the right. Likely to cause dazzle when use of I
dipped headlamps is compulsory.

IN

Headlamp aim too low or too far to the left. Likely to prevent the rider from being I
able to ride safely when use of dipped
headlamps is compulsory.

IN

The dipped beam and/ or main beam emitted from a Likely to cause dazzle when headlamp I
matched pair of obligatory headlamps cannot be use is compulsory.
switched on or off together.
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, Reflectors and Electrical Equipment
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Stop Lamps (see notes 1 and 8)

Stop lamp inoperative/obscured/missing/dim/ Where required, no stop lamp shows a I
otherwise defective in operation. steady red light when the brake is
applied (see notes 6 and 7).

Stop lamp(s) remain on when all brakes I

are released.

More than 50% of light sources D

inoperative.

Up to 50% of light sources inoperative / IN

Advise early rectification.

Stop lamp insecure. Detachment imminent. I

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 4
Lamps, Reflectors and Electrical Equipment
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Battery Detachment likely or displacement I

Battery insecure. constitutes risk of fire.

Advise early rectification. IN

Battery leaking. Electrolyte likely to cause failure of items I

which could affect vehicle safety.

Advise early rectification. IN

Switchgear and Wiring
Switchgear insecure/malfunctioning. - IN

Wiring/insecure/inadequately insulated/or will Constitutes a fire risk. I

become ineffective due to chafing or heat.
Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Wheels, Tyres and Suspension
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Wheels
1 Generally wheels distorted within the
Wheel fractured or with a welding defect. - I
following limits can be regarded as
acceptable.

Lateral (run-out or buckling):

Loose or missing rivets or bolts in built up wheels. Failure likely or control of machine I A) For a steel rim 4mm
adversely affected.
B) For an aluminium alloy rim 2mm
Failure unlikely. D (Cast or fabricated)
Eccentricity
For all types of rim 3mm
Wheel distorted/damaged/corroded or spokes Tyre fouling other parts of the machine/ I
missing or loose. An aluminium wheel which has directional control affected or failure
been repaired. likely (see note 1).

Failure unlikely / directional control D

unaffected.
Continued overleaf...

Excessive tightness, free play or roughness in a Imminent failure likely. I

wheel bearing.
Excessive free play impairing directional I
control.

Bearing is likely to overheat. I

Imminent failure not likely. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Wheels, Tyres and Suspension
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Wheel misaligned or toe out, excessive toe-in or Likely to seriously affect the handling or I
2 Examples of unsuitable tyres:
vertical misalignment of a sidecar wheel. steering of the machine.
a sidecar tyres or car tyres on a solo
No serious affect to steering or handling IN machine (sidecar outfits might be fitted with
of machine. ‘solo’ type tyres on any wheel);
b motocross or similar tyres, i.e. tyres where
the space between tread blocks is
Road wheel fouling. Failure of the wheel or affected I substantially greater than the size of the
component likely. blocks themselves, which do not have MST
(multiservice tyre) without an ‘E’ in a circle
Failure of the wheel or affected D or an ‘e’ in a rectangle moulded into or onto
component unlikely. the tyre wall;
Road wheel or road wheel spindle securing nut(s) I c tyres designated by their manufacturer as
/bolts/studs or locking device missing or loose. unsuitable for road use e.g. racing tyres or
those marked ‘NHS’ or NOT FOR
I HIGHWAY USE on the side wall;
d a tyre specifically designed for front wheel
use fitted to the rear wheel;
I
e a radial ply tyre fitted to the front and a
cross-ply or bias belted tyre fitted to the
No obvious signs of wheel insecurity. D rear wheel;
f a
cross-ply tyre fitted to the rear wheel.
Wheel hub excessively worn or damaged. Wheel security adversely affected. I
3 Uniquely, this does not apply to Metzeler
Excessively worn or damaged. D 100/ 80 - 17 tyres fitted to the rear wheels
of Aprillia AF50 motor cycles.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Wheels, Tyres and Suspension
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Tyres 4 ‘Exposed’ for this purpose means the cords

Unsuitable tyre fitted (see note 2). Likely to render the machine I are visible as seen by the naked eye or can
dangerously unstable. be made visible with the use of probe. Cuts
which are deep enough to reach the cords
Tyre fitted with ‘Direction markers’ in the wrong - D or ply but are less than 25mm or 10% of
direction (see note 3). the section width, whichever is the greater,
and have not damaged or exposed the
Tyre not correctly seated on the wheel rim or valve Tyre likely to fail or suddenly deflate. I cords or ply do not breach the legal
stem misaligned, insecure or damaged. requirements or tyres.
Tyre not likely to fail or suddenly deflate. IN
5 Bulging includes any lifting of the tread
Tyre has a break in the fabric or deep cut . Any cord exposed (see note 4) I rubber and must not be confused with
undulations.
Deep cut or damage more than 25mm or D 6 Clearly the degree of non-compliance, road
10% of section width, which ever is the and weather conditions are factors that will
greater, and cords/ply can be felt, but not have to be taken into account, if an
seen by the use of a probe (see note 4). exemption is to be issued.
Minor cut or damage (see note 4). IN 7 If the motorcycle has an engine capacity of
less than 50cc, the tread of the tyre can be
less than 1mm if the tread pattern can be
Tyre bulging (see note 5). Caused by separation or partial failure of I clearly seen over the whole tread area.
the structure.
8 Tyre aged more than ten years old, must
Ply or cord exposed. Due to wear on the tread area. I be recorded as an inspection notice item in
addition to any other defect and associated
action for the same tyre.
Tyre seriously under inflated. Likely to affect the handling. I

Unlikely to affect the handling. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Wheels, Tyres and Suspension
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Tyre tread worn beyond the legal limit or a tyre Tyre tread worn beyond the legal limit. I 9 The original tread pattern does not have a
with a re-cut tread. (see note 9). tread depth of at least 1mm (excluding any
Tyre has re-cut tread pattern. I tie-bar or tread wear indicator) throughout
a continuous circumferential band of the
Tyre tread worn close to legal limit. IN tread of at least ¾ of the breadth of the
tread and visible tread pattern on the
remainder.
Tyre fouling against another part of the Tyre damaged and/or likely to fail. I
motorcycle or sidecar.
No visible tyre damage and unlikely to IN
fail.

Tyre aged more than 10 years old (see note 8). - IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Wheels, Tyres and Suspension
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Front Suspension
10 Some fork arrangements rely on the
Part of the front suspension loose/cracked/distorted/ Failure of the component imminent and/ I
bracing incorporated in the mudguard
misaligned/corroded/excessively worn/excessive or likely to render the machine unstable
fixings to maintain their alignment. A
free play/excessive stiffness in movement. (see note 1).
mudguard insecurely fixed to the forks
could therefore adversely affect the
Failure not imminent or unlikely to render D
handling of the machine.
the machine unstable.
11 Some high performance machines are
fitted with anti-dive front forks which lock
when the brake is applied. In these cases
Road spring broken. - I the front wheel will need to be placed
against a solid object when checking the
damping.
12 Some smaller machines are not fitted with
dampers on the front suspension.

Damper inoperative/inadequate/missing/insecure Machine likely to be unstable during I

(see notes 2 and 3). braking or when otherwise ridden.

Missing or likely to become detached. I

Insecure. D

Fluid leaking from a damper. Severe fluid leak. D

Fluid leak. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Wheels, Tyres and Suspension
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Rear Suspension
Suspension component which is loose/cracked/ Failure of the component imminent and/ I
distorted/misaligned/corroded/excessively worn/ or likely to render the machine unstable.
excessive free play/excessive stiffness in
movement. But failure of component not likely. D

Road spring broken. - I

Damper inoperative or inadequate. Machine likely to be unstable during I

braking or when otherwise ridden.

Missing or likely to become detached. I

Insecure. D

Fluid leaking from a damper. Severe leak. D

- IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 5
Wheels, Tyres and Suspension
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

General
Suspension so modified as to render the machine Handling likely to be affected and I
unsafe. machine unstable.

Fouling of fixed and moving parts which restricts the Handling likely to be affected. I
movement of the suspension.
Handling of the machine unlikely to be IN
affected.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Structure and Attachments
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Engine and Transmission Security

1 Some machines have engines that are
Engine/gearbox mounting or frame around the Engine/gearbox detachment imminent or I
rubber mounted and which permit some
mounting area fractured/deteriorated/corroded/loose
movement at the mounting point.
(see note 1).
2 When considering several leaks, due
Engine/gearbox detachment not IN regard must be given to the cumulative
imminent or effect which could justify prohibition action.
Also, some machines have total loss
engine lubrication systems or direct engine
Transmission oil to the drive chain. These are
Chain or belt excessively loose/worn/misaligned. Failure/detachment imminent or likely to I acceptable.
jam the rear wheel. 3 Some two stroke engines produce smoke
due to their design.
Failure/detachment not imminent or D
unlikely to jam rear wheel. 4 Most fuel tanks are secured by flexible
rubber mountings. Movement might not
Early failure unlikely IN necessarily be an indication of insecurity.
5 If any fuel leak or spillage is likely to
constitute a fire risk or present a hazard to
Chain/belt sprocket or pulley excessively worn/ Failure/detachment imminent or likely to I other road users, an immediate prohibition
securing bolts missing/loose. jam the rear wheel. must be issued.
Failure/detachment not imminent or D 6 Temporary caps that do not prevent
unlikely to jam rear wheel. spillage or the use of rags etc., in place of a
fuel cap must be regarded as a defect.
Early Failure unlikely. IN 7 A silencer marked “Not for road use”,
“Track use only” or similar words are
Chain horseshoe locking device incorrectly fitted or Likely to become detached. I unsuitable.
insecure.
Fitted incorrectly. D

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Structure and Attachments
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Chain guard insecure. Failure/detachment imminent or likely to I

jam the rear wheel.

Failure/detachment not imminent or not D

likely to jam the rear wheel.

Drive shaft or shaft casing insecure/drive shaft Failure/detachment imminent or likely to I

excessively worn. jam the rear wheel.

Failure/detachment not imminent or not D

likely to jam the rear wheel.

Clutch and throttle controls

Throttle control defective. Safe operation of motorcycle affected. I

Not functioning correctly. D

Clutch lever bent, shortened or incorrectly Such that it cannot be readily operated. D
positioned.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Structure and Attachments
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Oil Leaks
Oil leak from engine/gearbox/drive shaft casing (see Continuous flow or contaminating a tyre. I
note 2).
Dripping giving rise to a patch in excess D
of 75mm diameter in 5 minutes.

But not excessive. IN

Exhaust Emission (see note 3)
Engine emitting excessive exhaust smoke. Sufficient to obscure vision or likely to I
cause danger to other road users.

Continuous haze which tends to obscure D

vision.

Continuous haze, any colour. IN

Fuel Tank and System
Fuel tank insecure (see note 4). Detachment imminent or risk of fire. I

Detachment not imminent. D

Fuel leakage. Continuous leak or leak constituting a fire I

risk or loss of vehicle control.

Not continuous, not a fire risk , unlikely to D

affect control of vehicle.

Fuel filler cap missing or defective. Such as to permit fuel spillage I

(see notes 5 and 6).

Continued overleaf... No risk of spillage or hazard to vehicle/ IN

other road users.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Structure and Attachments
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Fuel line damaged/chafed/insecure. Likely to fracture or leak (see note 5). D

No risk of fracture or leak. IN

Exhaust System (see note 7)

Exhaust system incomplete/insecure/excessively Detachment imminent. I
deteriorated/unsuitable type.
Detachment not imminent. D

Unsuitable type. D

Early failure unlikely. IN

Silencer insecure. Detachment imminent. I

Detachment not imminent. D

Early failure unlikely. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Structure and Attachments
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Frame
Part of the frame or structure loose/cracked/ Failure imminent and/or likely to make I
distorted/misaligned/corroded or fractured. the machine unstable.

Failure not imminent and/or not likely to D

make the machine unstable.

Fairing
Fairing or other bodywork item (e.g. mudguard) Detachment or interference with I
insecure. directional control likely.

Advise early rectification. IN

Accessories
Mirror or stands etc. insecure/ fractured or Detachment likely or likely to impede the I
damaged. rotation of a wheel.

Advise early rectification. IN

Seat/Footrests
Seat/footrest missing/insecure/fractured or Rider’s seat missing. I
damaged.
Detachment likely or liable to interfere I
with proper control of the machine.

Advise early rectification. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 6
Structure and Attachments
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Sidecar
Sidecar to motorcycle mountings or mounting areas Detachment likely or component failure I
corroded/fractured/insecure or in the case of imminent which is likely to adversely
‘leaning’ sidecars, wear/free play in or otherwise affect the stability of the combination.
defective attachment of pivot joint.
Detachment unlikely / stability of D
combination unaffected.

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 7
Audible Warning
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Horn
Horn missing/ insecure/ inoperative. Detachment imminent. I

Inoperative or missing. D

Sound likely to be confused with an D

emergency vehicle siren.

Insecure or defective. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects
Section 8
Exhaust Noise
Part 3: Motorcycles
Description of Defect Severity of Defect Action Notes

Exhaust Noise

Excessive engine exhaust noise. Does not reduce the noise emitted to a D
reasonable level.

Becoming a nuisance. IN

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects

Appendix A Revision Record

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects

Appendix A Revision Record

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 DVSA Categorisation of Defects

Appendix A Revision Record

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