Germany

Shake-up of BFG vehicle inspection test

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The vehicle inspection test, which is compulsory for cars used by all soldiers and civilians living in British Forces Germany, has undergone a shake-up to improve safety.

Forces News has been to the BFG test centre inside Normandy Barracks to see what the changes - which became law from January 1st this year - mean.

The test is exactly like an MOT in the UK but with a few continental tweaks like testing for European headlights.

It has been adapted in line with standards set out by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency as part of a European Commission directive to make vehicle tests more standardised across Europe and to recognise new technology.

Under the new additional tested items your vehicle could now fail if the brake fluid warning light is on, if the engine is not properly mounted to the chassis, if your dashboard doesn’t have a light to show when your headlights are on full beam or if the dust covers for your suspension joint are missing or broken.

The main advice for those who are unsure whether their vehicle will now pass a BFG test is to keep it regularly checked and serviced.

To find out more information you can go to your local BFG test centre or visit http://www.dft.gov.uk/vosa/publications/manualsandguides/vehicletestingm...