Electrical wiring and equipment

Information 

This inspection applies to all vehicles including electric and hybrid vehicles. 

Some tow bar electrical sockets are ‘hidden’ behind an access panel in the bumper or bodywork. These panels should not be removed. 

If a tow ball or pin is not fitted at the time of test, e.g. because it is detachable, has been unbolted or otherwise removed, but the attachment brackets are still in place, the electrical socket should still be assessed where fitted. This does not apply if the tow ball or pin attachment brackets have been deliberately rendered unfit for further use.

Method of inspection 

1. Check the condition and security of the battery. 
2. Check the condition and security of all visible electrical wiring. 
3. On vehicles fitted with a towbar, check the condition and security of the trailer electrical socket. 

Note: This check applies to both 7 and 13 pin electrical sockets. 

4. Check switches controlling all obligatory lights. 

Note: You should be mindful of high voltage components and cabling as if these are damaged they may be capable of delivering an electric shock.

Reason for rejection

		Deficiency Category
A battery slightly insecure.		MINOR
A battery likely to fall from its carrier, cell closure missing or leaking electrolyte.		MAJOR
Electrical wiring:	insecure or inadequately supported	MINOR
	insecure or inadequately supported so that it is likely to become damaged	MAJOR
	damaged or deteriorated to the extent that it is likely to cause a short circuit or become detached	MAJOR
	insulation damaged or deteriorated but wiring is not exposed	MINOR
	insulation damaged or deteriorated to the extent that bare wiring is exposed	MAJOR
	positioned so that it is chafing or likely to be damaged by heat	MAJOR
A trailer electrical socket:	insecure	MINOR
	damaged or deteriorated to the extent that the connecting lead could not be securely connected	MAJOR
Switches controlling all obligatory lights:	insecure	MAJOR
	malfunctioning	MAJOR