In April 2023, the DVSA announced updates to HGV and PSV MOT inspection manuals.
In this post we’ll examine the key changes and discuss what they might mean for drivers and fleet managers.
At Anthony Jones we specialise in insurance for the transport and logistics sector. If you have any questions about your legal obligations as a driver or fleet manager, call us on 020 8290 9099 or email commercial.motor@anthonyjones.com.
2023 HGV and PSV Inspection Manual Changes
Among other things, the new inspection manuals cover updates on:
- Inappropriate modifications
- Free Rolling Tyres (FRTs) on front-steered axles
- PSV brake testing
- Flashing stop lamps
- Seat belt webbing
- 1c Tachograph fitment
- Trailer EBS conditioning process
2023 HGV and PSV Inspection Process Changes
There are also some updates to the inspection process:
- Free-rolling tyres fitted to front steered axles are now classed as a failure.
- In response to certain HGV technology updates, checks for loose wheel studs and bolts must now also include wheel flanges.
- There are new specific standards to apply for cuts and damage to seat belt webbing.
- Any flashing stop lamp is now classed as a failure. If all stop lamps are flashing, it’s classed as a prohibition.
- If PSV vehicles don’t get any lock up on the brake testing process, inspectors must make brake efficiency calculations for either gross weight (with vehicles registered before 1982) or design weight (for vehicles registered after 1982).
These updates follow some general updates that were made to the MOT inspection manuals for all vehicle classes earlier this year. Previous changes included updates to requirements for mirrors, seatbelts, and emissions. You can read a full list of the 2023 changes to the MOT inspection manuals.
Download The New HGV and PSV Inspection Manuals
What Do These Changes Mean For Me?
These changes are for anyone engaged in the practical work of vehicle examination and maintenance. They offer clarity on the procedures to carry out, the minimum standards to apply, and on what classifies as a deficiency – whether that’s a minor, a major, or a dangerous deficiency.
If you’re a driver or a fleet manager, it’s worth familiarising yourself with the minimum standards the DVSA applies to HGVs and PSVs. These updates may mean that you have to prioritise certain maintenance and repairs before your vehicle’s next MOT, to avoid a failure.
But ultimately, very little should change for you. Whether you manage a single vehicle, or a fleet, you should already be committed to keeping your vehicles safe and roadworthy with regular servicing and maintenance. Though the DVSA’s standards have changed a little, it’s unlikely that you’ll have to make any major revisions to the way you manage your truck, or your fleet.
Further Support For Truckers and Fleet Managers
We have plenty of resources on our site to address some of the key issues truckers and fleet managers face today:
- What to include in a return-to-work HGV driver risk assessment.
- HGV insurance for new drivers – a complete guide.
- What is an umbrella company for HGV drivers?
- A guide to returning to HGV driving after retirement.
- The cost of being an owner operator.
At Anthony Jones we specialise in insurance for the transport and logistics sector. If you have any questions about your insurance needs as a driver or fleet manager, call us on 020 8290 9099 or email commercial.motor@anthonyjones.com.
