Objectives of the new regulations

Technical vehicle inspection is constantly being further developed and adapted to the latest technical developments. The corresponding regulations must also be amended for this purpose.
The new framework conditions will contribute to even greater road safety and the protection of our environment. In addition, the new regulations implement the increased requirements for roadworthiness testing in the European Union.

Cancellation of backdating

Previously, if a general inspection was overdue in most federal states, it was backdated to the original due date. Now that the new regulations have come into force, the full sticker period is always issued. However, anyone who overdues the main inspection by more than two months will have to pay a 20% higher fee. This is due to the extended inspection then prescribed by the expert.

New defect racer

Defect classifications are the same for experts from all organizations. They can no longer be changed. While it was previously possible to reformulate a given defect text, this is no longer possible once the new regulations come into force. In addition, the defect classification for many defects has been tightened. For example, the failure of a dipped beam light will result in the badge being refused; this now constitutes a significant defect.

New category “Note”

The note is introduced as a new category. This gives the expert the opportunity to draw the owner’s attention to defects that may become apparent in the future due to wear, corrosion or other circumstances.

Test drive

When the new regulations come into force, a test drive at a speed of at least 8 km/h must be carried out at the start of every general inspection. Both steering movements and braking must be carried out. This short drive serves to initialize the electronic systems.

Partial inspection “Exhaust gas”

From 01.07.2012, the partial exhaust emission test may be carried out and documented by the workshop or an expert no more than two months before the main inspection.

Extended electronics test

Many electronic safety systems are already checked for vehicles first registered on or after 01.04.2006. For vehicles registered for the first time from 01.01.2012, additional electronic components are now included in the HU and more detailed test steps are prescribed. For example, the tire pressure monitoring system, the high beam assistant, the hybrid drive, the active head restraint or the active hood are included in the scope of the main inspection for these vehicles.

Changed sticker validity period for self-drive rental vehicles

In the case of a car that was used as a self-drive rental vehicle, the period for the next general inspection is extended to 36 months in the event of a change of owner within the first 7 months after initial registration and completion of the general inspection.

Mandatory inspection point “Warning triangle and first aid kit”

Both the warning triangle and the first-aid kit are once again mandatory items.

Increased demands on braking systems

Vehicles registered for the first time on or after July 28, 2010 must meet stricter requirements with regard to service braking systems as part of the technical inspection. For passenger cars, for example, 58% braking is now prescribed instead of the previous 50%. For trucks over 3.5 t GVW, the requirement has changed from 45 % to 50 %. For this reason, vehicles should generally be presented for the HU with a partial load.

Both the warning triangle and the first-aid kit are once again mandatory items.