Common Reasons for Failing PCO Vehicle Inspection
A PCO vehicle check is a thorough inspection of PCO vehicles performed to make sure your car is safe to carry passengers. Failing this inspection can affect your earnings through Uber, Bolt, and other ride-hailing platforms.
Many reasons of failure are easily avoidable if you know the process. In this article, we will explain how to avoid failing PCO vehicle inspection and increase your passing chances.
Some Key Failure Reasons:
- Mechanical and Safety Issues
- Vehicle Condition
- Compliance Issues
- Cleanliness and Presentation
- Heavy Window Tinting
Note: You are only responsible for PCO vehicle inspection if you own the car. Using a PCO car hire or rent to buy vehicle means your car provider will be the one responsible for arranging vehicle inspections.
Mercedes Benz EQE
£325/week
Mercedes E300 2025
£375/week
Mercedes-Benz E300e
£320/week
MG 5
£115/week
MG HS
£250/week
Toyota Corolla
£200/week
Toyota Prius
£200/week
Toyota Prius Plus
£220/week
Toyota Rav4
£270/week
Mechanical and Safety Issues
- Brakes: Worn-out or squeaky brakes could get you flagged.
- Suspension System: Your car’s suspension system should be stable.
- Tyres: The tyres should have at least 1.6mm of tread depth and be inflated to the appropriate pressure.
- Warning Lights: If a warning light is on, TfL will consider this a red flag.
- Lights and Indicators: Your car’s headlights, fog lights, reverse lights, number plate lights and indicators should all be working properly.
- Windscreen Wipers and Washers: If your windscreen has cracks or chips, if the wipers don’t clear the windscreen effectively, or if your washer fluid is empty, you could fail the inspection.
Regular checks and maintenance of key elements not only help you avoid failure but also confirm the safety of your passengers.
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Vehicle Condition
The inspector will look for signs of neglect during the inspection. You could fail the inspection If your vehicle has any of the following issues:
- Dents
- Peeling paint
- Cracked headlight
- Faded number plates, etc.
Perform regular upkeep helps you to maintain your car in good condition.
Compliance Failures
Your car won’t pass the inspection if it’s non-compliant with TfL regulations. Here’s how to keep it compliant:
- Licence Display: Make sure the PHV licence is visible and in good condition.
- Insurance: The vehicle must have specific private hire insurance.
- Car Modifications: Only TfL-approved modifications are allowed.
- ULEZ Standards: Confirm the car meets required emission standards.
Cleanliness and Presentation
- Interior: Must be clean, odour-free, and well-kept.
- Exterior: Clean the windows, tyres, and avoid dirt or damage.
- General Presentation: A neat, professional appearance is essential for passing the inspection.
Regularly cleaning both the interior and exterior keeps your vehicle in good condition. It also enhances passenger experience, helping you maintain a positive reputation as a driver.
Heavy Window Tinting
- Windscreen: Must allow at least 75% light transmission.
- Front and Rear Windows: Must allow at least 70% light transmission.
Your windscreen and front windows should meet the required light transmission levels to avoid immediate failure. Clear visibility is crucial not only for safety but also for maintaining compliance with TfL standards.
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Conclusion
Most failed inspections are the drivers’ fault.
TFL wants to make sure your car is safe for passengers and other road users. If you don’t meet their standards, you won’t be able to offer rides legally. So, keep your car clean, safe, compliant, and well-maintained because in a world where competition is tough, drivers who pass their inspections are the ones who make the income.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does my PCO car need an inspection?
PCO vehicle inspections are performed annually. However, if your car is more than 10 years old, it’s ineligible for PCO driving so it won’t be approved for inspection as well.
Can I reschedule PCO vehicle inspection?
Yes, you can reschedule a PCO vehicle inspection by calling 0343 222 555.
What documents do I need to bring to the PCO vehicle inspection?
Here’s a list of documents required for PCO vehicle inspection:
- Existing PHV licence and discs (for renewals)
- V5c DVLA Vehicle Registration Certificate
- Hire and reward insurance documents
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