Under Bonnet Inspection

Information 

The under-bonnet inspection should be conducted at stage 1, as at this stage it may be necessary to open the bonnet to identify the vehicle and to complete the exhaust emission test. When the under-bonnet checks are complete, the examiner must close the bonnet and carry out the normal lifting and locking mechanism checks to ensure the bonnet is securely closed. 

Method Of Inspection 

This under bonnet inspection should include 

• Body condition 

• Braking system components 

• Steering components 

• Suspension components and mountings 

• Engine and transmission mountings 

• Vehicle identification number 

• Electric’s 

• Fuel system components 

Each part of the under bonnet inspection will be dealt with under subject headings e.g. Steering system, Structural integrity and corrosion etc. 

Check that bonnet is or can be secured in the closed position, this includes checking the operation of the safety catch, where fitted as original equipment. If the bonnet is difficult to close or opens again after the lifting checks – check if the relevant mechanism is still in the bonnet release position, ensure the mechanism is in fully locked position and try again. Where the bonnet cannot be securely closed following these procedures the vehicle should fail the test. 

When stage 4 is completed and the vehicle has been removed from the vehicle lift, an additional check of the vehicles bonnet must be carried out to ensure that it is fully secured in the closed position before completing the test. 

Reason For Rejection 

		Deficiency Category
1	A bonnet, which cannot be secured in the closed position.	MAJOR
2	A bonnet at risk of opening inadvertently	DANGEROUS
3	Safety catch missing or inoperative (only if fitted as original equipment)	MAJOR
4	A testable item under the bonnet, which is in a condition, which is listed under that item as a reason for rejection	MAJOR