MOT and High level stop light

[tonyox]

HI. I have a 406 estate that failed its UK MOT because the high level stop light was not working. Having difficulty obtaining a replacement and have been told that if I black tape the light it is disregarded during an MOT, is this correct? Thanks in advance for your help

[Doggy]

When I were a lad, many, many moons ago, (Cue Hovis Ad soundtrack), Construction & Use Regulations read something to the effect of:
"If a light is fitted to the exterior of a vehicle it must work, unless it is painted over, blanked off or disconnected, except in the case of the mandatory lights."
I'm not that familiar with current regs, but I would be very surprised if there is any requirement for a high-level stop light as many cars don't have them - same with reversing lights & the cursed front fogs.

Broken filament doesn't count as disconnected BTW

[jasper5]

Here is a useful site for mot regulations......http://www.motuk.co.uk/manual_130.htm

[lofty]

My old D8 estate went through 6 mot's with the top tailgate stop light gaffer taped over.

[HimBigChief]

My D8 saloon would've failed the MOT on the third brake light last year, so the garage took it off for me!

[tonyox]

Thanks for all the info guys, gaffer tape/removal it is then! :-)

[roton600]

I had the same problem, was an easy fix...took off the rear spoiler, 4 bolts from memory, then remove brake light 2 screw..tested it on the battery worked fine so had to be wiring fault, used a cut to length piece of wood to push brake pedal down, tested for 12 volts at the plug. there was only 12 volts from the live side and straight to earth...so cut the earth side put on a ring crimp and there is a handy bolt to use to earth too.

hope thats clear...

[406silverhdi]

easy to fix or even easier to fit a new one for a couple of quid on the inside