Rear Reflectors

Information 

This inspection applies to obligatory rear reflectors only, that are required by Regulations to be fitted. 

Each vehicle is required to be fitted with two reflectors, one on each side fitted symmetrically. 

Three wheeled mopeds, tricycles, light quadricycles and quadricycles only requires one rear reflector if the maximum vehicle width is 1000 mm or less. 

Some reflectors may be rendered inoperative by being painted over; this is a failure for obscurity. 

Exemptions 

Rear reflectors are not required by Regulations, if the vehicle is not fitted with any front or rear position lamps, etc (see section ‘Front or Rear Position Lamps). 

Optional Reflectors 

Any additional reflectors fitted to a vehicle, other than reflectors required by Regulations, are not included in this inspection. However no vehicle, other than a trailer or a brokendown motor vehicle being towed, may be fitted with triangular-shaped rear reflectors. 

Approval Mark 

This inspection does not include a check that reflectors have the appropriate approval mark. 

Reflective Tape 

Reflective tape is not acceptable as a substitute for a rear reflector. 

Method Of Inspection 

1. Check that two red reflectors are fitted to the rear of the vehicle, symmetrically one on each side. 

2. Check that each reflector is: 

a. facing to the rear 

b. the correct colour 

c. in good working order and clean condition

d. not obscured 

Note:  At least 50% of the reflecting surface must be visible from the rear. 

e. securely fitted 

f. not obviously incorrectly positioned 

Reason For Rejection

		Reason For Rejection	Deficiency Category
1		There are not two red reflectors facing to the rear or not fitted symmetrically, one on each side of the vehicle. (see note on three wheeled mopeds, tricycles, light quadricycles and quadricycles).	MAJOR
2		A reflector:
	a	not facing the rear	MAJOR
	b	not red in colour	MAJOR
	c	not in good working order or in clean condition, i.e., so damaged or deteriorated that less than 50% of the reflective surface is functioning	MAJOR
	d	obscured so that less than 50% of the reflective surface is visible from the rear.	MAJOR
	e	not securely attached	MINOR
	f	likely to become detached	MAJOR
	g	obviously incorrectly positioned	MAJOR