Stay Roadworthy: SmartCheck Helps You Avoid the DVSA’s Top 10 Prohibition Defects

Ensuring vehicle safety isn't just about compliance. It's about protecting lives, maintaining your fleet's efficiency, and safeguarding your company's reputation. 

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) regularly publishes data on the most common defects leading to vehicle prohibitions. By understanding these defects and proactively addressing them, operators can significantly reduce the risk of roadside prohibitions.  

The DVSA’s Top 10 Prohibition Defects for HGV Trailers 

According to the DVSA's latest data for the 2024–2025 period, the most frequent defects found during inspections of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) trailers are: 

1. Condition of Tyres – 11.56%

2. Brake Systems and Components – 6.75%

3. Spray Suppression, Wings, and Wheel Arches – 3.36%

4. Suspension – 3.26%

5. Lamps – 3.09%

6. Road Wheels and Hubs – 3.09%

7. Parking Brake Performance – 2.69%

8. Service Brake Performance – 2.61%

9. Service Brake Operation – 2.47%

10. Security of Body – 1.66%  

These defects not only pose safety risks but also lead to costly downtime and potential legal consequences. 

Introducing SmartCheck: Your Digital Solution for Vehicle Safety 

SmartCheck, part of the Descartes SmartCompliance™ solution suite, is a mobile driver vehicle safety check app designed to speed up vehicle inspections and reduce human error. 

Replacing traditional paper-based checks, SmartCheck offers a cloud-based, configurable solution that ensures compliance with DVSA's walk-around check requirements. 

Features of SmartCheck: 

• Real-Time Data Capture: Records date, time, location, and duration of checks, providing verifiable proof the safety check actually took place. 
• Immediate Defect Reporting: Allows drivers to report issues instantly, enabling prompt corrective actions. 
• Comprehensive Reporting: Generates detailed reports for management, facilitating proactive maintenance and compliance tracking. 
• Integration with Compliance Management Systems: Part of the Descartes SmartCompliance portfolio, it integrates with tachograph data, drivers’ hours, and license verifications to give a complete picture of compliance. 

How SmartCheck Addresses the Top 10 Defects 

With SmartCheck, operators can systematically address the most common defects identified by the DVSA: 

Tyre Condition: Regular checks ensure tyres are within legal tread limits and free from damage. 

Brake Systems: Routine inspections help identify wear and potential failures in brake components. 

Suspension and Wheel Assemblies: Early detection of issues prevents more significant mechanical failures. 

Lighting and Visibility: Ensures all lamps and indicators are functioning correctly, maintaining vehicle visibility. 

Body Security: Verifies that all body components are secure, reducing the risk of parts detaching during transit. 

Implementing SmartCheck not only enhances safety but also contributes to operational efficiency by reducing unexpected breakdowns and maintenance costs. 

Conclusion 

Incorporating SmartCheck into your fleet management practices is a proactive step towards ensuring vehicle safety, compliance, and operational excellence. By addressing the DVSA's top prohibition defects through regular, digital inspections, you safeguard your drivers, assets, and business reputation. 

For more information on SmartCheck and how it can benefit your operations, visit the Descartes SmartCompliance website. 

Sign up to SmartCheck for just £60 per vehicle per year.