Since 1 October 2019, MOT tests and the motor industry have been adapting to today’s more connected world.
The introduction of connected roller brake testers on that date set something in motion. Now, today’s test stations and garage equipment are gradually being linked up to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
The reason for this is simple. The Government wishes to reduce the amount of errors that can occur when manually entering data from the MOT test. Connected garage equipment, linked up to the DVSA’s MOT computer, can help minimise this risk. Furthermore, as the information is instantly recorded, time efficiencies can be made across MOT testing services.
Because of this, MOT garages are placed in an interesting position. Over time, they will need to connect to the MOT testing service. However, there are many questions they may have during this journey.
With that in mind, we have provided our top five tips around connected equipment, in a bid to help our customers.
Know Your Connected MOT Equipment
Some MOT testing equipment needs to be connected by law. Yet this does not apply to all equipment used in vehicle testing. Knowing what equipment can be connected is key for MOT garage owners. For example, the DVSA made connected roller brake testers mandatory in October 2019. Also, while Crypton’s gas and smoke emissions analysers are approved as a piece of connected equipment, legislation has not yet made this a requirement.
Make Sure Your MOT Equipment Can Be Connected
It is crucial that MOT garages continue down the connected route if they are to remain legally compliant. With that in mind, it is a legal requirement that when buying a new brake tester, replacing a current one or even buying or even reopening an MOT centre, that the brake tester can be connected to the MOT testing service. This will also soon be the case for emissions analysers and other MOT equipment.
It is therefore recommended that MOT centres look at the range of suppliers who have had DVSA connected approval for their equipment beforehand.
Is Your MOT Connected Equipment Futureproofed?
Innovations like these show that connected equipment will be a mainstay of MOT bays in the future, so it is crucial that garage owners remain up-to-date on the technology. If they are not, MOT garage owners may experience complications if they were to sell their premises. All equipment, whether new or second-hand, now has to be connected if the site changes hands. As the buyer would have to buy new connected garage equipment, they might be less inclined to complete their purchase.
Prioritise Hardwired Equipment
Some MOT garages may struggle with internet connectivity. Because of this, we always recommend hardwiring when equipment is being installed. You can link MOT equipment to Wi-Fi, but an unstable internet connection may present problems. As a result, test result time savings made possible by connected equipment may be lost.
Apply for A Software Code in Plenty of Time
A software code, or ‘key,’ is required before MOT connected equipment can be installed. New connected equipment needs new codes to run, so emailing the DVSA two weeks beforehand is a must.
Important information is required to receive a code, including an AE name and number. Additionally, once the code is received, it needs to be kept safe. If this MOT testing equipment were to break down, not having easy access to this code could complicate repair work.
To find out more about Crypton’s range of Connected Equipment, click here or call Crypton on 0121 725 1400.
Crypton – A Brand of the Continental Corporation
