MOT Question Re: Steering Lock

[Motorhole]

As part of my current ream of upgrades, I'm potentially removing the steering lock and fitting an FIA master switch and push button start. Just wanted to get a second opinion re. the MOT legality of this - my interpretation of the manual is that it's all good

The inspection of the steering lock only applies to passenger cars with:

a steering lock fitted as standard by the manufacturer, and
four or more wheels, and
not more than 8 passenger seats excluding the drivers seat, and
first used on or after 1 September 2001 The check does not apply to quadricycles.

If there is doubt as to whether a steering lock was originally fitted, the benefit of the doubt should be given.
It is acceptable for a steering lock to be removed if it has been replaced with another immobilisation device (Key in barrel retention, EWS and obviously removable master switch toggle feature here).

But then, under reasons for failure:

4. a. A steering lock mechanism inadvertently engaging
b. a steering lock mechanism missing or fails to engage
c. an electronic steering lock system malfunction warning displayed.

Information taken from here:

http://www.ukmot.com/manual/2.1/Steering-Control

Thanks guys.

[milescook]

There's some common wisdom around now that says MOT testers need to use common sense with these sorts of things, so you should ask one. That said, I've seen several different testers with several opinions my last MOT tester told me he'd turned a blind eye to my seat because the mechanism to adjust it was missing or faulty - i.e. it was a race seat bolted to the floor...

Whilst I can't help here, I would say that the Blue book does state that you must NOT have a steering wheel lock mechanism for competition use. BUT, if the car is occasionally for road use then it's exempt.

[DanThe]

Ive sent plenty of track cars through MOT without steering lock, one today actually, never had a problem

[maxfield]

The manual states for vehicles built after September 2001. The bits that are reason for rejection only applies to vehicles after 2001. That website isn't as clear as the manual as it shows in columns on the proper manual.


So nothing to worry about on an E30.

[Brianmoooore]

There's also the 'umbrella' note that exempts 'real' competition cars that are road legal from many of the more trivial rules.

[Motorhole]

Thanks for your help guys. The Zone can always be relied upon

There's also the 'umbrella' note that exempts 'real' competition cars that are road legal from many of the more trivial rules.

Yeah this is what gets me round the lack of a servo. Wasn't sure if it was just for specific items or for more general guidance regarding such vehicles though.

[maxfield]

It's more of a general guidance around modified vehicles. As long as the MOT tester you use has some common sense you should be fine.