Heavy vehicles must undergo periodic testing every year, and the operator has a statutory maintenance and repair obligation. Here are the test intervals, what is checked, the defect categories (minor / significant / dangerous), roadside testing and when a defect leads to a driving ban.
Introduction
The daily pre-trip check ensures the vehicle is roadworthy right now. On top of that are two layers of official inspection: the periodic MOT at fixed intervals, and roadside testing where the vehicle can be pulled aside for technical inspection while driving. The driver must know both — because it's often him standing with the vehicle when a fault is found.
Inspection intervals
Heavy vehicles are inspected more often than cars. The basic principle for lorries and heavy trailers over 3,500 kg is first inspection one year after first registration and thereafter inspection every year. This follows EU Directive 2014/45/EU and the Danish inspection regulations.
| Vehicle | First sight | Hereafter | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lastbil > 3.500 kg | 1 year after 1st registration | every year | 2014/45/EU; the MOT regulation |
| Heavy trailer > 3,500 kg | 1 year after 1st registration | every year | 2014/45/EU; the MOT regulation |
| Passenger car (for comparison) | 4 years after 1st registration | every other year | vision regulation |
What is checked at the vision test?
- 01Brakes: function, balance, air loss and parking brake.
- 02Steering, suspension and axles.
- 03Lights, reflective devices and electrical systems.
- 04Tyres and wheels: tread depth, damage and correct fitting.
- 05Body, coupling/fifth wheel lock and lashing equipment fastening points.
- 06Environment: emissions, noise and oil/fluid leaks.
- 07Speed limiter and tachograph: installation and function.
Defect classes
Defects during inspection are divided by severity into three classes under 2014/45/EU. The class determines what must happen:
| Defect class | Meaning | Follow |
|---|---|---|
| Minor defect | No significant safety risk | Remedied, but the vehicle typically passes |
| Significant (major) defect | May affect safety or other road users | The vehicle does not pass — must be repaired and remade (reinspection) |
| Serious defect | Immediate and direct danger to traffic safety | The vehicle must not be used on the road until the defect is repaired (traffic ban) |
A serious defect — for example, failing brakes — can thus result in the vehicle not being allowed to travel further until the fault is corrected. This applies both to the ordinary inspection and to roadside checks.
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