Preparing for your Test

Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test Reforms: Changes to the system –

1) Engine Oil and Coolant Levels

Pre checks are carried out by the tester before commencing the smoke test. Reasons for not carrying out a smoke test are:

  • engine warning lamp remains on (new since May ’18)
  • oil level is below manufacturer’s minimum level
  • coolant level is below the manufacturer’s minimum level
  • oil warning light remains on with engine running
  • oil level is above the manufacturer’s maximum level
  • there are obvious engine defects.

Prior to the test we recommend you:

Check the Coolant

  1. – Check the Coolant when the engine is COLD in order to avoid injury.
  2. – Top up if necessary.

Check the Oil

  1. – For the Oil check, warm up the engine and turn it OFF.
  2. – Remove the dipstick and wipe clean with a cloth.
  3. – Check the oil level and top up if needed with specified oil type (you should consult your user manual or the internet for the manufacturer’s recommended oil type for your vehicle)

**One other common issue we see that you can check for at this point is to make sure there is water in the Window Wiper Washer.

2)  Lamps, Reflectors and Electrical

Vehicles will fail if their lights are not working fully and correctly.  It is best to get someone to help you check if your lights are working correctly.  Make sure you check all of the following; Side Lights, Main Beams, Brake Lights, Indicators, Reversing Lights, Number Plate Lights and Rear Fog Lights.  If any of these lights are not working it is usually one of the following reasons.

  1. The bulbs are gone and need to be replaced
  2. Blown Fuses:  Most vehicles have a number of spare fuses in the main fuse box of the vehicle.  Your vehicle manual will show you the location of the fuse box and the relevant fuse for the light that is not functioning.

Where a towing coupling is fitted to a vehicle, it is necessary to ensure that:

  • They are secure, undamaged or faulty
  • All outputs from the socket are in working order

3)  Tyres

The test involves an inspection of the condition of a vehicle’s tyres for their thread and condition.

Note:  Hub Caps MUST be removed in order to inspect the wheel nuts!

  1. Thread – Should be at least 1.6mm and evenly worn
  2. Condition – The tyres will be checked for impact damage, bulges and cracks.  Sidewall damage and cracks are the major causes of blowouts.  You can check your tyres yourself prior to the test for these signs that perhaps the tyres may need to be replaced.
  3. Pressure – Check your tyre pressure prior to the test.  Keeping your tyre pressure in the recommended range can reduce uneven tyre wear and improve handling, braking and predictability.  Tyre pressure recommendations for your vehicle can usually be found on the tyre, and/or on a sticker on the driver’s door frame on the vehicle with the manufacturer’s recommendation.