New HGV Maintenance Rules Effective April 2025
As of April 2025, new rules for Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) maintenance have come into effect under the UK’s Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness. These updates aim to boost safety by enforcing stricter braking performance assessments during safety inspections. Every inspection must now include a brake performance test using an approved method, ensuring vehicles meet higher safety standards on the road.
The regulations require these assessments to be conducted with one of three tools: a roller brake tester (RBT), an electronic braking performance monitoring system (EBPMS), or a decelerometer paired with temperature readings. For operators not using EBPMS, at least four laden brake tests are mandatory each year, evenly spaced throughout the calendar. This keeps braking systems under regular scrutiny to catch issues early.
These brake tests are integrated into the routine safety inspections, which typically follow Preventive Maintenance Inspection (PMI) schedules. In the UK, PMIs often occur every 6 weeks, though intervals can range from 4 to 12 weeks based on a vehicle’s usage, mileage, and manufacturer guidelines. The new rules fit within these existing timelines, making compliance straightforward for fleet operators.
At Skelmersdale Truck Stop, we’ve got you covered. Our regular PMI services now include the required brake performance assessments, whether it’s through laden brake tests or other approved methods. We tailor our schedule to your needs—be it every 6 weeks or a custom interval—ensuring your fleet stays compliant and operational without any hassle.
Stay on the Move, Nationwide: Full UK HGV Breakdown Recovery Services
When your HGV breaks down, every minute matters. That’s why our Full UK Breakdown Recovery service is built to keep your fleet moving — wherever you are across mainland Britain. From city centres to remote A-roads, our rapid-response recovery teams are available 24/7 to assist.
We specialise in safe, efficient HGV recovery. Whether your vehicle needs transporting to a trusted local repair centre or directly to our Skelmersdale Truck Stop, we’ll ensure it gets where it needs to be, quickly and securely.
Our modern recovery fleet handles all types of HGVs — from rigids to artics — and our experienced operators deliver a professional, reliable service every time.
Wherever you are in the UK, count on us to recover your HGV and get your operation back on track. Click below to request recovery or speak to us about ongoing fleet support.
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Ensure Fleet Safety, Prioritise Performance: HGV Vehicle PMI, Safety Inspections, and Repairs
Maintaining the safety and performance of your HGV vehicles is crucial in today’s rigorous transportation environment. Regular Periodic Maintenance Inspections (PMI) and safety inspections are not just regulatory requirements but key practices to ensure the reliability and safety of your fleet on the road.
Proper and timely maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns, reduce downtime, and enhance the overall efficiency of your operations. Neglecting these inspections increases the risk of mechanical failures, which can compromise the safety of your drivers, cargo, and other road users.
At our Skelmersdale Truck Stop, conveniently located just off the M6 junction 26, we offer a full range of services, including comprehensive PMIs, safety inspections, and expert repairs tailored to meet the specific needs of your HGV fleet. Our skilled technicians meticulously examine your vehicles, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
Prioritise the safety and compliance of your fleet. Schedule your next HGV Vehicle PMI, safety inspection, or repair with us today to keep your fleet roadworthy and dependable. Click below to learn more about our services and how we can help you maintain peak performance and safety standards.
Ensure Wheel Nut Security: Expert Retorquing Services.
