DVSA to change MOT headlamp aim test from March 24

The DVSA is to change the requirement to test the ‘image break’ point for all European ‘E’ beams.

Headlamp aim consistently tops the MOT compliance survey as one of the most likely items to be assessed incorrectly by testers, the association has said.

The changes will widen the tolerance band for European ‘E’ beams with headlamp centres up to 850mm.

The DVSA is also changing the requirement to test the ‘image break’ point for all European ‘E’ beams.

A headlamp will fail if its horizontal cut-off is above the upper limit of 0.5 per cent or below the lower limit of 2.75 per cent.

Once the changes are in place you will need to check for ‘white light’ in the area formed by the zero per cent vertical and the 0.5 per cent horizontal lines for all European ‘E’ beams.

The DVSA have called this the ‘dazzle zone’ because if a beam is aimed in this area then it is likely to dazzle oncoming vehicles.

Any white light in this area would result in the headlamp failing the test.

Also, you need ensure there is a ‘kick up’ visible on the screen if it’s required.

The MOT inspection manuals will be updated on March 24 to include the new standard.