Vehicle Construction, Systems and Component Inspection
Vehicle Construction, Systems and Component Inspection
This domain tests the technical inspection of vehicle systems against Cap. 374A. The examiner must know what to inspect, how to test it, and what evidence justifies a defect finding.
System-by-system inspection
- Braking: service brake, parking brake, hydraulic and pneumatic lines, fluid level, pedal feel, ABS warning lamp, balance and efficiency on the roller tester. A brake warning lamp that stays on is not a cosmetic fault.
- Steering: excessive free play, tie-rod ends, rack gaiters, power-steering leaks, column security.
- Suspension: springs, shock absorbers, bushes, mountings, ride height, corrosion around mountings.
- Tyres and wheels: prescribed tread depth (1.6 mm minimum for the relevant tread area), sidewall damage, correct size and load rating, wheel security, cracks.
- Lighting and signalling: mandatory lamps present, correct colour and aim, matched pairs, no unauthorised flashing or aftermarket HID/LED conversions without approval.
- Body and structure: corrosion, cracks, accident repairs, seat anchorage, seat belts, door latches, mirrors, glazing.
- Environmental systems: exhaust integrity, catalytic converter/DPF presence, sensors, fuel and LPG components.
Worked example
A light goods vehicle has a spongy brake pedal and the reservoir is below the minimum mark, but no puddle is visible. The roller test shows low front braking force and side-to-side imbalance. Reasoning: the low fluid and spongy pedal indicate a hydraulic fault; the roller result confirms loss of braking performance. This is not a minor leak to be monitored. It is a dangerous defect: the vehicle should not be driven except to a repair facility, and re-examination is required after repair.
Traps that cost marks
- Passing a vehicle because no leak is visible; sealed hydraulic faults and internal master-cylinder leaks may not drip.
- Checking tyre tread only at one point or only the centre; wear patterns and sidewall damage matter.
- Treating an ABS or brake warning lamp as an electrical nuisance rather than a system fault.
- Accepting aftermarket lighting because it looks brighter; approval and beam pattern are the issues.
- Recording "brakes ok" without the measurement that supports the conclusion.