Fuel System

Information 

This inspection applies to all petrol, diesel and gas powered vehicles 

Running The Engine 

This inspection is to be carried out both with and without the engine running. 

Opening The Luggage Compartment 

It may be necessary to open the luggage compartment to carry out a full inspection of the fuel system. Items must be assumed to be satisfactory if access cannot be gained. 

Locking Fuel Caps 

If access cannot be gained to the fuel cap because it is locked and the key is not readily available, then it must be assumed to be in a satisfactory condition. 

If the vehicle is powered by gas and suffers a leak this should be treated in the same manner as any fuel leak. 

Method Of Inspection 

1. Check the condition and security of all fuel system components. 

2. Check fuel pipes and hoses for chafing and damage. 

3. Check for leaks in the fuel system both with and without the engine running. 

Note: On gas powered vehicles, the presence of a leak must be confirmed by the use of a leak detection product conforming to standard BS EN 14291-2004. Leak detection products must be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. 

4. Check fuel tank cap /filler neck sealing device for presence, positive fit and condition of sealing washer and flange. 

Note: It is not necessary to run the engine but if a leak is present when the engine is running the vehicle should be failed. 

Note: Before failing a vehicle for a leak from a gas system an examiner must be able to ascertain the point of leakage. This may be achieved by listening but is more likely to be identified by smell (due to a stanching agent) or signs of “frosting” around the point of leakage.  Leak detection devices should only be used to confirm the leakage. 

Reason For Rejection 

		Reason For Rejection	Deficiency Category
1	a	A fuel system component insecure	MAJOR
	b	A fuel pipe or hose excessively chafed or damaged.	MAJOR
2		A leak in any part of the fuel system.	DANGEROUS
3		A fuel tank cap/filler neck sealing device:
	a	Missing	MAJOR
	b	does not fasten/close securely by a positive means, and such that pressure is not maintained on the sealing arrangement	MAJOR
	c	sealing washer torn, deteriorated or missing, or a mounting flange/sealing method defective such that the leakage of fuel is possible	MAJOR