What is Connected Equipment?
The DVSA introduced ‘Connected Equipment’ in 2019, which requires certain items of MOT equipment to connect directly to the government’s cloud-based MOT Testing Service (MTS). This is part of the DVSA’s initiative to decrease data-entry errors, help reduce fraud, and modernise MOT testing in garages to ensuring accurate, up-to-date information. This means testers no longer need to note down results and enter them manually into the MTS. This is made possible by a stable internet connection.
What Equipment is Affected?
Roller brake testers were the first to be rolled out as connected equipment in October 2019. Diesel smoke meters and gas analysers for emissions testers are the most recent MOT equipment to be introuced from 1st May 2021.
The DVSA plans to introduce headlight beam testers as the next equipment following successful trials.
What are the Benefits of Connected?
Automating the way in which MOT test data is reported removes the possibility of human error. Like any industry relying on manual data input, there have been instances in the past where miskeying of information has resulted in incorrect data being logged with the DVSA. By logging data automatically, this risk is taken out of the equation.
The accuracy and speed at which test results can be recorded will ultimately free up time to carry out more efficient services, such as MOT tests to carry out the best service possible. This, in turn, gives garages the opportunity to improve their performance, profitability and increase the number of tests that can be completed in a typical day.
The connected emissions testing equipment also keeps users up-to-date on the state of the workshop’s internet connection. In instances where the connection is affected by poor signal, the emissions tester will notify the user. Data will be saved locally until the connection returns and the information can be sent to the MTS. Furthermore, no testing data will be lost if the signal is down. Garage owners and operators can therefore enjoy further peace-of-mind, knowing they do not need to carry out tests again.
Who Does the Rule Apply to?
The rule applies to any of the following:
- a new MOT centre
- reopening a closed MOT centre (regardless of how long it’s been closed)
- a change of ownership of an MOT centre (where it moves from one authorised examiner (AE) to another)
- replace the current roller brake tester
- add a new test lane with a roller brake tester
Who Does the Rule NOT Apply to?
The rule does not apply if:
- you’re making a change to an existing AE (for example, where you add a new partner and keep the same AE number)
- your application was received by DVSA before 1 October 2019 – you can install any roller brake tester that was approved at the point you applied