Got a question about Model Reports?
Here on the Frequently Asked Questions page we have included information which we believe will help you when considering importing a car.
- NEW - Does the ten year rolling rule still apply after April 1st 1997? - Answer
- What is a model report? - Answer
- Does the VI own the test houses? - Answer
- What criteria do you need to become a test house? - Answer
- What is a Comparison model report? - Answer
- What components are tested in a model report? - Answer
- What vehicle types/models will need a steering comparison model report? - Answer
- What types of vehicles will need a model report before going for an ESVA test? - Answer
- What pre ESVA preparation work is required when using a model report? - Answer
- Where can you get a model report from if it doesn’t already exist? - Answer
- How much will a model report cost if you buy your own report? - Answer
- What is the procedure for renting a copy of an existing model report? - Answer
- When you "rent" a model report, do you see it? - Answer
- What modifications need to be made to the vehicle in order to
pass ESVA with a rented model report? - Answer
Does the ten year rolling rule still apply after April 1st 1997?
Yes it does. All vehicles 10 years or older do not need Model ReportsT or steering comparison reports. They are still straight to MOT.
A model report is a tool developed and produced by the Vehicle Inspectorate (VI) from information supplied to them by test houses. Their examiners then use the information on the model report to satisfy themselves that the vehicle they are testing is the same model as the one that was originally tested at the test house. It saves every vehicle that needs testing having to go a test house.
Does the VI own the test houses?
No, they are all independent.
What criteria do you need to become a test house?
You need very expensive exhaust emission test equipment and space for a test track with the correct tarmac and computerised microphone system, together with approval of the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) and be independent.
What is a Comparison model report?
A test house produces a comparison report when they compare an imported vehicle with a UK model. This comparison could be on protective steering, brakes, seatbelts or noise. This comparison report is then used by the VI to produce a model report!
What components are tested in a model report?
The VI produces a report that their examiners can check the car against with the minimum of disassembly. So only components that are easily accessible are checked on the SVA test. HOWEVER, every now and then the VI will pick a car at random and completely re-check it at a test house. In these cases any dismantling required to find part numbers will be done plus they will test the noise and emissions again.
What vehicle types/models will need a steering comparison model report?
These are required on any 4x4 passenger carrying vehicle with a ladder chassis. They are not required on goods vehicles.
What types of vehicles will need a model report before going for an ESVA test?
Any vehicle that cannot prove compliance with relevant regulations by any other means will require a model report. For Japanese vehicles this normally means any vehicle with a date of manufacture after 31/12/96. However 4x4 passenger carrying vehicles with a ladder chassis (i.e. Pajero) will always need a model report. Also, for example, a VW Golf imported from Malta, which has no way of proving compliance, will require a full model report including tests on emissions, noise, brakes, seatbelts and steering.
What pre ESVA preparation work is required when using a model report?
All the old SVA preparation alterations will need to be carried out and in addition any modifications that were carried out to get the initial car through the noise and emissions tests. For example - extra catalysts may be required on some models to pass the emission test.
Where can you get a model report from if it doesn’t already exist?
A vehicle would need to be tested at a test house and the results sent to the VI. The VI would then produce the model report from the information the get from the test house.
How much will a model report cost if you buy your own report?
An emission test and report costs about £2000 (if it passes first time), a noise test and report costs about £1000 (if it passes first time) and a comparison test and report costs about £900. If you want to go really overboard, a crash test and report costs about £11,120 (plus the vehicle)
What is the procedure for renting a copy of an existing model report?
Approach the owner who will advise on the fee. Once this has been received, the owner would produce a letter allowing the use of their model report on a specified vehicle by a specified applicant. This letter should be enclosed with the application to the VI.
When you "rent" a model report, do you see it?
No. All that is sent is the model report number and a letter of permission.
What modifications need to be made to the vehicle in order to pass ESVA with a rented model report?
It would be the responsibility of the owner of the model report to inform the hirer if any modifications need to be carried out. The person who rents the report should also enquire if any changes are needed.
