If you already own a garage, you probably know that an MOT brake tester is a crucial piece of equipment for any garage performing MOT tests. However, if you are not currently performing MOT tests and do not have a roller brake tester, or are considering investing in one, then this article will help you understand:
- Why do I need an MOT brake tester?
- Alternatives to roller brake testers
- What a brake tester does
- How MOT testers test brakes
- MOT standards for brake testing
- Where to find out more about MOT Brake Testers
Why do I need an MOT brake tester?
You need an M.O.T. brake tester because:
- It’s the Law: Brake testing is a legal requirement as part of the MOT test.
- Safety First: Faulty brakes are a major safety risk. A brake tester helps ensure your customers’ cars are safe.
- Pass the Test: To pass the MOT, a car’s brakes must meet specific standards. A brake tester helps you accurately measure brake performance.
- Efficient Testing: A brake tester speeds up the testing process, helping you serve more customers.
Basically, an M.O.T. brake tester is like a doctor’s stethoscope for your customers’ cars. It helps you diagnose problems and keep them safe.
Is there an alternative to the MOT brake tester?
Yes! In fact, there are three main types of MOT brake testers:
- Roller brake testers – these are the traditional gritted rollers that sit in a metal cassette embedded into the ground, the car wheels sit between the rollers and the braking force if calculated by how quickly these stop rolling.
- Plate brake testers – these consist of two plates that are in parallel and mounted on force transducers, the vehicle brakes are applied as it drives over the plates and the braking for measured in this way.
- Decelerometers – are handheld electronic devices that can be taken in or attached to a vehicle during a test drive and brake test, and they will test the braking efficiency by calculating the rate of deceleration. These are essential for motorcycle testing for example where neither the standard roller nor plate brake testers would be safe to use.
What does a brake tester do?
A brake tester is a vital tool for garages that perform MOT tests. It provides accurate and reliable measurements of brake performance, helping to ensure that vehicles meet safety standards.
If the brake tester, or MOT testers inspection determines that the vehicle brakes are not up to the required standard for stopping safely, then this would be an instant MOT test failure.
How do MOT Testers Check Brakes?
MOT testers use roller brake testers or equivalents (see above), to assess the braking performance of a vehicle. This involves:
- Brake Efficiency Test: This test measures the braking force applied to each wheel.
- Brake Imbalance Test: This test checks for uneven braking between the front and rear wheels, as well as between the left and right sides.
What other brake checks are needed as part of the MOT Test?
As well as using the MOT brake tester or decelerometer, a thorough inspection for car and passenger vehicle MOT tests is required as follows:
- Inspection of brake condition and operation
- Service brake check
- Secondary brake check
- Parking brake check
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- Electronic braking system (EBS)
- Brake fluid check (level and condition)
Read the full MOT inspection manual: cars and passenger vehicles:
Concept Garage Equipment: Your Partner in MOT Bay Excellence
At Concept Garage Equipment, we offer a comprehensive range of MOT brake testers, including the renowned ATL MOT Brake Testers. Our services include:
- Supply and Installation: We provide expert installation of new brake testers.
- Servicing and Calibration: Our skilled technicians ensure your equipment is always in top condition.
- Brake Roller Re-Gritting: We offer re-gritting services to maintain the optimal performance of your brake rollers.
Contact the MOT Bay experts today
By investing in quality MOT bay equipment and regular maintenance, you can ensure the safety and compliance of your customers’ vehicles.
For expert guidance on MOT brake testing equipment and MOT bay solutions for your garage or workshop, contact Concept Garage Equipment today on 0113 469 0572.