UNDERSTANDING YOUR BRAKE TEST REPORT

Heavy Goods Vehicles and relevant trailers should have their brakes tested by a roller brake tester at least 4 times per year, including at the MOT.

A report will be provided once the test has been completed. While the headline part of the report is whether or not the test has been passed or failed, more information is provided.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) recently published a guide to help goods vehicle operators understand and get the most out of their brake test reports.

As well as details about the vehicle being tested the report will also contain information on the brake performance of each axle and a summary of the test results for each brake system, showing how the brakes performed during the test (called brake efficiencies). This information can then be used to identify any problems so that repairs can be carried out and ensure the brakes are in a safe condition.

Understanding your HGV or trailer’s brake test report can be found on the Gov.uk website at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/understanding-your-hgv-or-trailers-brake-test-report