Near research suggests that nearly a third of vans in the UK are failing the MOT test because of brake faults…

Vans and Brake Faults

Nearly one in three vans (30%) are failing their MOTs due to brake faults. That’s according to new research conducted by ATS Euromaster. As a consequence, it’s urging van drivers to prioritise preventative maintenance works; minimising their risks of facing significant downtime and rising repair costs. It claims that van lifecycles are now often extended beyond four or five years. This, combined with increased usage, is producing more defects.

Mark Holland, operation director at ATS Euromaster, commented on the research. He said, “an astonishing 29.3% of vans failed their MOT thanks to a brake defect of some manner”. He added, “we expect this percentage to increase as this data was from 2020 and vans have been working harder and longer since the pandemic, fuelled by the increase in the home delivery market”.

Key Maintenance Work 

In order to avoid series brake defects, ATS has identified a number of key areas van drivers should prioritise when it comes to maintenance. Brake pads, for instance, are often changed whilst disk changes are simply regarded as being advisory. But this can mean that pads are changed prematurely when disks finally go below spec. 

Brake fluid should also be changed regularly. If it isn’t, it can absorb moisture and end up with a new boiling point. This can lead to a ‘spongy’ brake pedal, which can lead to general wear and tear. Warped brake disks are often a problem, too. These produce a juddering effect, locking up wheels in some instances. This can potentially impact steering and suspension systems. 

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