New MOT rules come into force for four types of vehicles today

A new MOT rule has been introduced by the DVSA that affects four types of vehicles.

Drivers will need to make sure they display a special type of sticker to stay in line with the rules.

From October 14, MOT testers must accept ECE-approved LED replacement (LEDr) bulbs in compatible halogen headlamp units.

What vehicles are affected?

This change only applies to class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles with existing halogen headlamp units that have been fitted with ECE approved LED replacement bulbs.

That includes class 3 Tricycles, class 4 cars, class 5 – which is applicable to larger passenger vehicles – and class 7 goods vehicles.

But excludes class 1 and class 2 motorcycles, halogen headlamp units that have been converted to use with high intensity discharge (HID) bulbs and full LED headlamp unit replacements.

You can find out what class you vehicle is in here.

How to check if your bulb is approved?

The approved LED replacement products come with a secure approval sticker.

The sticker must be permanently fixed to the vehicle so it can be seen easily during an MOT test.

When a vehicle that has LED replacement bulbs fitted in halogen headlamps are being tested, garages only need to check that the approval sticker is there when carrying out an MOT.

Garages do not need to check the ECE approval number, approval markings, or manufacturer details against any databases, documentation or records.

What does the approval sticker look like?

According to the DVSA an approval sticker must include:

• category (for example, H11 LEDr)
• variant
• rated voltage
• ECE approval number
• manufacturer’s name
• a security feature such as a hologram

As long as stickers contain the required information and security, it doesn’t matter if manufacturers produce the stickers differently, DVSA explained.

But garages will be forced to fail a vehicle if there is no sticker, if the sticker is unreadable or has been tampered with, or if the sticker doesn't match the bulb that’s been fitted.

What happens if a vehicle fails an MOT?

A vehicle will fail its MOT if the test result lists “dangerous” or “major” problems with the vehicle.

You might not be allowed to drive until you fix the problems, DVSA warns. You might also get a list of “minor” or “advisory” problems to monitor or fix in the future.

Drivers can face a fine of up to £2,500 for driving a vehicle thats failed its MOT for a “dangerous” problem. A driver can also get three penalty points for driving a vehicle that has failed its MOT.