DRAFT UGANDA STANDARD  
  DUS 845  
Second Edition  
2017 -mm-dd 
 
 
 Reference number  
DUS 845: 2017  
© UNBS 2017   
  
Road v ehicles  — Requirements  for inspection and testing of 
used motor vehicles for roadworthiness  
 DUS 845: 2017  
ii © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 Compliance with this standard does not, of itself confer immunity from legal obligations  
A Uganda Standard does not purport to include all necessary provis ions of a contract. Users are 
responsible for its correct application  
© UNBS 2017  
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilised in any 
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including p hotocopying and microfilm, without prior written 
permission from UNBS.  
Requests for permission to reproduce this document should be addressed to  
The Executive Director  
Uganda National Bureau of Standards  
P.O. Box 6329  
Kampala  
Uganda  
Tel+256 414 333 250/1/2 /3 
Fax: +256 41 4 286 123  
E-mail: unbs@infocom.co.ug  
Web: www.unbs.go.ug  DUS 845:2017  
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  iii 
 Contents  Page  
1 Scope  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................  1 
2 Normative references  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................  1 
3 Definitions  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  1 
4 Inspection for performance characteristics  ................................ ................................ .......................  2 
5 Inspection of operational systems  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 5 
6 Inspection of Steering system, Brake system, Wheels and tyres  ................................ ....................  7 
14 Documentation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  13 
Annex  A  (normative)   Wheel alignment testing  ................................ ................................ ...........................  14 
Annex B  (normative)   Brake testing  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  15 
Annex C  (normative)   Exhaust emissions testing  ................................ ................................ .......................  16 
Annex D  (normative)   Head light testing  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 17 
Annex E  (normative)  Sound level testing  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 20 
 DUS 845: 2017  
iv © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 Foreword  
Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) is a parastatal under the Ministry of Tourism, Trade and 
Industry established unde r Cap 327 , of the Laws of Uganda.  UNBS is mandated to co -ordinate the 
elaboration of standards and is  
(a) a member of International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and  
(b) a contact point for the WHO/FAO Codex Alimentarius Commission on Food Standards, a nd  
(c) the National Enquiry Point on TBT/SPS Agreements of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).  
The work of preparing Uganda Standards is carried out through Technical Committees. A Technical 
Committee is established to deliberate on standards in a given field  or area and consists of representatives of 
consumers, traders, academicians, manufacturers, government and other stakeholders.  
Draft Uganda Standards adopted by the Technical Committee are widely circulated to stakeholders and the 
general public for comme nts. The committee reviews the comments before recommending the draft standards 
for approval and declaration as Uganda Standards by the National Standards Council.  
In reporting the results of a test made in accordance with this Uganda Standard, if the fina l value observed or 
calculated is to be rounded off, it shall be done in accordance with EAS 124:1999, Rounding off number 
values.  
 DRAFT UGANDA STANDARD  DUS 845: 2017  
 
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  1 
 Road vehicles — Requirements  for inspection and testing of 
used motor vehicles for road worthiness  
1 Scope  
This Draft Ugand a Standard specifies  the safety related performance characteristics of used motor vehicles 
and their inspection and test ing for roadworthiness.  
2 Normative references  
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document . For dated 
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced 
document (including any amendments) applies.  
EAS 1 24, Rounding off number values  
US 533, Retro -reflective warning signs for road vehicles  — Chevron signs  
US 545 , Seat belt assemblies for motor vehicles — Specification  
US 546 , Anchorages for automobile seat belts — Specification  
3 Terms and definitions  
For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions shall apply . 
3.1 
inspection  
activities such as measuring, examining one or more characteristics of a product or service and comparing 
these with specified requirements to determine conformity  
3.2 
specification  
prescribed requirement with which the product or service has to con form 
3.3 
defect ive 
non-fulfilment  of intended usage requirements  
3.4 
used motor vehicle  
one that has ever been registered in Uganda or elsewhere  
3.5 
background radiation  
ionizing radiation constantly present in the natural environment of the earth, which e mitted by natural and 
artificial sources  
3.6 
dose 
measure of the radiation received or absorbed by a target  DUS 845: 20 17 
2 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 3.7 
opacity  
degree of obstruction of clear visibility by exhaust smoke/fumes  
3.8 
inspector  
person authorized to carry out inspection activities by the relevant govern ment regulatory body  
3.9 
motor vehicle  
any self -propelled vehicle adopted for use on the road except engineering plants and motorcycles  
4 Inspection for  performance characteristics  
4.1 Inspection of wheel alignment  
The alignment of the st eered wheels shall be inspected with a side slip tester machine or any other suitable 
apparatus. The reading for skidding shall not exceed 5  mm inward or outward for 1 m of travel (see Annex A). 
Wheel alignment shall also be inspected visually in accordanc e with the following:  
a) camber shall not exceed the manufacturer's specified limits ; 
b) in the case of a semi -trailer , any axle shall not be out of square to the longitudinal centreline  of the 
vehicle by more than 10.0 mm/ m of length of trailer ; and 
c) the front w heels (in the straight -ahead position) and rear wheels shall be in the same vertical plane. 
When relevant, sidecar wheel shall be parallel to or shall not have slight "toe -in" towards t he front 
wheel (in the straight -ahead position).  
4.2 Inspection of brak ing force  
4.2.1  General  
The braking force of a vehicle under inspection shall be measured with one inspector therein as an occupant 
with no passenger or luggage, according to the requirements specified in Annex B and the results shall 
conform  to 4.2. 2 and 4.2.3. 
4.2.2  Braking force of main brake system  
4.2.2.1  The total braking force of the main braking system shall not be less than 50  % of the axle weight 
of the vehicle, and the sum of braking forces on the rear wheels shall not be less than 50  % of the ax le weight 
of the subject axle when unladen.  
4.2.2.2  For the main braking system, the difference of braking forces applied to the right and left  wheels 
shall be 8  % or less of the axle weight o f the subject axle when unladen . 
or 
a) The difference in braking ef fort between wheels on  the same a xle should  not be more than 30%  
b) On an individual wheel, brake effort shall not fluctuate by more than 30%.  
4.2.3 Braking force of parking brake system  
The total sum of the braking force of the parking brake system shall n ot be less than 20  % of the weight of the 
vehicle as inspected.  DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  3 
 4.3 Level of noise produced by automobile  
4.3.1  The measurement of the noise level of steady running noise shall not be more than 88 dB(A) ,when  
tested in accordance with Annex E.   
4.3.3  The no ise level in the cabin should not be more than 70 dB(A).  
4.4 Exhaust gas from automobile  
4.4.1  General  
The concentration of or the level of contamination from exhaust gas shall be determined according to Annex 
C. 
4.4.2 Automobiles using gasoline or liquefi ed petroleum gas as fuel  
The concentration of the exhaust gas from an automobile shall be measured when the engine is idling, and 
inserting the probe of a tester into the exhaust pipe to a depth of approximately 60 cm ( if this is not feasible, 
measures to prevent the ingress of air from outside shall be  taken before inserting the probe).  The 
measurements shall not exceed the following  reference values:  
a) concentration of carbon monoxide  - 4.5 %; and 
b) concentration of hydrocarbon:  
i) 4-cycle engine  - 1 200 ppm ;  
ii) 2-cycle engine  - 7 800 ppm ; and 
iii) special engine  - 3 300 ppm . 
4.4.3 Automobiles using light oil (diesel) as fuel  
4.4.3.1  Emissions limits  
Table 1 — Carbon monoxide limits for diesel engines  
Effective Date (s) CO limits (by volume ) 
≤ Engine RPM  
Before 01/10/198 6 4.5%  Idling  
From 01/10/1986 to  31/12/1993  3.5%  Idling  
From 01/01/1994 to 30/06/2002  0.5%  Idling  
0.3%  2500rpm or speed specified by manufacturer  
From 01/07/2002  0.3%  Idling  
0.2%  2500rpm or speed specified by manufacturer  
 
Table 2 — Hydro Carbon li mits for diesel engines  
Effective Date  HC limits(ppm) ≤ Engine RPM  DUS 845: 20 17 
4 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 Before 01/10/1986  1 000 Idling  
From 01/10/1986 to    
31/12/1993  750 Idling  
From 01/01/1994  200 2500rpm or speed specified by manufacturer  
 
4.4.3.2  Opacity  
The excessive black smoke or fumes emitted from the automobile shall not be allowed . 
This test will consist of a snap -idle test also called the snap acceleration test. The exhaust smoke is measured 
by its ability to allow light to pass through using a special light beam.  
0% opacity means the exhaust has no visible smoke to block the light  beam while 100% opacity means the 
exhaust is so dark it completely blocks the light beam. The test will be carried out as described under Annex 
G. 
Reject if, in the case of any type of engine, the exhaust smoke em ission is so dense during a  test that its 
opacity measured is higher than the percentages below.  
Table 3  — Opacity limits  
Year  Opacity Limit  
1991 or newer  40 % 
1974 - 1991  55 % 
1973 or older  70 % 
4.5 Brightness of headlamps and orientation of main optical axis  
4.5.1  General  
The brightness of headlamps and the orientation of their main optical axis shall be measured either manually 
or using suitable apparatus with the light receiving portion of a tester squarely opposed to the headlamp 
according to the distance and method of measurement. The ma nual measurements shall be done in 
accordance with test methods specified in Annex D and shall agree with the reference values  in 4.5.2 and 
4.5.3.  
4.5.2 Luminous intensity  
4.5.2.1  Four -lamp type  
For the main headlamp for driving, the intensity shall be 12 000 cd or above and with a sub headlamp added, 
the intensity shall be 15 000 cd or above . 
4.5.2.2  Other types  
For the headlamps for driving, the intensity shall be 15 000 cd or above.  DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  5 
 4.6 Horn  
With the engine of an automobile stopped, the loudness of its a larm unit ( that is, the horn) shall m eet the 
requirements  below . Measurement shall be conducted in accordance with test method  specified in Annex E. A 
microphone set in a position 1.0 m above the ground and at 2.0 m from the front of the vehicle:  
a) reference  value , within the range 90 dB(A) through 115 dB(A ); and  
b) the sound of an alarm buzzer shall be continuous and of constant volume.  
4.7 Speedometer  
The speedometer shall be in good working order.  The indicate d speed should be within  10% variance of the 
vehic le’s true speed.  
5 Inspection of operational systems  
5.1 Engine  
The en gine shall be inspected  while observing the following:  
a) the engine shall start with ease, and shall not produce excessive unusual noise or vibration during 
operation ; 
b) no oil leakage or wa ter leakage shall be observed from the main body of the engine ; and  
c) no cracking, damage, or deformation shall be observed on  the oil sump, an d there shall be no 
leakages from the gaskets.  
5.2 Exhaust system  
5.2.1  The following components shall be securely installed and free from damage:  
a) exhaust pipe, which, in addition, shall be free from excessive deformation;  
b) catalytic muffler;  
c) silencer; 
d) blow-by gas reducing device; and  
e) emission control de vice for fuel evaporative gases . 
5.2.2 The positioning and routing of exhaust pipe shall be done in acceptable manner and observation of 
the following shall be made:  
a) no damage or cracking shall be permitted in the intake or exhaust manifold ; 
b) no cracking or rubber flaking shall be observed in the exhaust pipe and support b racket ; and  
c) the muffler and the gaskets of the exhaust pipe shall be free from damage, exhaust leakage, and 
abnormal noise.  
5.3 Engine  cooling  
5.3.1  Engine cooling system   
The following components shall be securely installed and free from damage:  DUS 845: 20 17 
6 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 a) radiator and radiator cap  
b) over-flow tank  
c) rubber hoses ; and  
d) no coolant leakage shall be observed from the radiator, rubber hoses  or water pump . 
The cooling fans and their drives such as belts shall function normally and shall be free from damage . 
The engine temperat ure indicator shall be in good working condition.  
5.4 Fuel system  
5.4.1 The fuel tank shall be firmly mounted.  
5.4.2  The fuel tank shall have a fuel tank cap that s hould effectively seal  
5.4.3  The f uel system shall have no leakage s. 
5.5 Transmission syste m 
The transmission shall  operate effectively . 
5.5.1 Manual transmission  
5.5.1.1  There shall be no anomalies in the engagement system of the clutch ( for example,  slip, 
incomplete disengagement, judder and unusual noise) and shall operate smoothly.  
5.5.1.2  No oil leakage in the clutch system.  
5.5.1.3  A clutch pedal s hall be provided with a friction pad.  
5.5.1.4  The gearbox/transfer box shall be inspected while observing the following:  
a) it shall not produce excessive unusual noise or vibration during operation;  
b) no oil leakage shall be observed from the main body of the gearbox/transfer box; and  
c) no cracking, damage, or deformation shall be observed on the oil sump, and there shall be no oil 
leaking from the gaskets.  
5.5.2 Automatic transmission  
5.5.2.1  The transm ission shall be capable of being turned to each shift position with ease in the idling 
state, and there shall be no excessive play in the shift lever in any shift position.  
5.5.2.2  The gears or bearings in the transmission shall not produce unusual noise, and no  oil leakages 
from oil seals.  
5.5.2.3   The gear shift indicator reading shall match with the actual shift position, and the engine starter 
shall not operate in any gear selector position other than "P" (Park) or "N" (Neutral) . 
5.5.3 Axles, drive and propeller shafts  
5.5.3.1  The above shall be free from cracking, damage, looseness and abnormal backlash . 
5.5.3.2  The above  shaft s shall n ot produce run -out or abnormal vibration and noise during driving.  DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  7 
  
5.5.4  Final drive system  
The final drive sys tem sha ll be free from abnormal  backlash, unusual noise, and oil leakage.  
5.5.5  Axle housing  
No crack (whenever there is cracking) , damage, deformation o r oil leakage  in the axle housing.  
5.6 Suspension system  
5.6.1  No cracking, damage,  off-set or misalignment sha ll be in the spring and the clip band. Centre  bolt or 
U-bolt shall not be damaged, missing, or loose.  
5.6.2 No excessive  play at the mounting portions of the shock absorber. No oil or gas leakage shall be 
present .  
5.6.3  The torque rod, radius rod, and the ir brackets shall be free from deformation and damage , mounting 
portions and coupling portions shall not be loose or damaged.  
5.6.4  The suspension arms shall not be damaged or loosely mounted .The arm support shall be free from 
cracking, damage, and bends.  
6 Inspection of steering system, brake system, wheels and tyres  
6.1 Steering system  
6.1.1 Steering wheel  
6.1.1.1 The steering wheel shall be capable of being easily and relia bly operated by a drive r sitting in 
position, and  shall be mounted without backl ash, lightly operated and with proper play . 
6.1.1.2 There shall be no backlash in the direction of the axis of the steering shaft . 
6.1.1.3 The effort required to manipulate the steering wheel shall not be excessively different between 
the clockwise directi on and anticlockwise direction.  
6.1.2 Steering gear box  
6.1.2.1 The gearbox shall be mounted without looseness and be free from oil leakage . 
6.1.2.2 The sector shaft shall be free from backlash . 
6.1.3 Steering linkage  
6.1.3.1 The steering linkage shall be free from deformation and damage such as cracking .  
6.1.3.2 No loosely mounted parts, excessive backlash or defective split pin shall be present in any part of 
the rod arms . 
6.1.3.3 There shall be no risk of the wheels coming into contact with the frame, f ender, brake hose or any 
other part during steering . 
6.1.4 Power steering  
The power steering system shall be free from oil leakage and looseness in its body or connecting portions and 
shall operate and function properly.  DUS 845: 20 17 
8 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 The steering fluid reservoir cover should be tightly secured.  
6.2 Brake system  
6.2.1 Brake pedal  
6.2.1.1 The height,  free play and full depression of the brake pedal shall be correct, and the clearance 
between it and the floorboard shall not be less than 25% of the overall stroke of the ped al. (For an air brake, 
the play of its pedal shall not exceed 20 mm).  
6.2.1.2 The brake pedal shall be free from backlash in the axial direction, and shall not  produce any 
unusual noise when depressed.  
6.2.1.3 The brake pedal shall be provided with a mecha nism to prevent slipping e.ga rubber pad.  
6.2.1.4 The brake system shall be free from leakage s and the ingress of air.  
6.2.2 Parking brake  
6.2.2.1 The parking brake shall be completely engaged when the brake lever is fully  activated.  
6.2.2.2 The pulling ma rgin of the brake lever shall not be more than 70  % of its overall  stroke.  
6.2.2.3 The ratchet shall not be worn or damaged.  
6.2.3 Brake rods and cables  
Any visible  damage shall not be allowed  
6.2.4 Brake hose and piping  
6.2.4.1 No damaged or loosely insta lled brake hoses or pipes shall be permitted and there  shall be no oil 
leakage or air leakage from piping or joints.  
6.2.4.2 There shall be no risk of a hose or pipe being brought into contact with any other part and no 
hose or pipe shall show signs of hav ing been in contact with any other part.  
6.2.5 Master cylinder and wheel cylinder s 
The master cylinder and wheel cylinder shall function prop erly and shall be free from leakage, and no bend or 
damage shall be present in the push rod.  
6.2.6 Backing plate  
The backing plate shall be free from deformation and distortion, and shall not be cracked especially in 
proximity to anchor pin installation areas.  
6.2.7 Air brake  
The hoses and pipes, release valve, and brake chamber shall be free from damage and air leakag e. The 
brake chamber and rod shall be free from deformation, and no split pins shall be missing.  
6.2.8 Braking servo unit  
The servo unit shall function properly and there shall be no liquid or air leakage from the unit or pipe joints.  DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  9 
 6.3 Wheels and tyres 
6.3.1 Wheels  
6.3.1.1  No nuts or bolts shall be loose or missing in a wheel  
6.3.1.2  The wheel disks, rims and side rings shall be free from cracking and damage due to excessive 
corrosion or deformation, and the disk shall be free from excessive run -out. 
6.3.1.3 Wheel bearing shall be free from excessive backlash and the drag from the brakes and the 
preload on bearings shall be correct.  
6.3.2  Tyres  
6.3.2.1  Tyre shall  be as per  the specifications recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.  
6.3.2. 2 The tyres shall  be inspected visually in accordance with tyre specifications.  
The following shall be  obse rved: 
a) the tread pattern shall not be excessively wo rn or damaged. The sidewall shall be free from cracking 
and damage and tread shall not show signs of slipping ; and  
b) tyres tread shall not be worn beyond 1.6mm or the Tread Wear Indicator.  
c) the tyre s should have a shelf life of at least 50%  .This applies for tyres on vehicles under importation.  
d) tyres of different Sizes specifications not to be fitted onto the same axle.  
e) tyres designed for winter conditions not allowed.  
7 Windshield and windows, wipers and washers, mirrors, lights and reflectors  
7.1 Windshield  and windows  
The Window glass  elevating devices shall be functional.  
The windshield shall be securely fitted and made of safety glass, and shall be free from any distortion or flaws 
that may limit visibility.  
a) the windshield  shall not be cracked, clouded or otherwise defective that the driver’s day view or night 
view is materially affec ted or obstructed.  
b) the windshield  cracks  shall not have sharp edges   
c) the windows  shall not restrict the driver's  view in the side -mirror.  
d) material other than glass shall not be  fitted as ; window or transparent partition, except that  
i) roof windows, and windows and partitions in sidecars, in buses and in passenger semitrailers 
may be  of ultra -high-impact acrylic or polycarbonate plastics materials that are marked with the 
trade name or trade mark of the manufacturer or with the trade name of the material and with a 
permanent material identi fication mark,  
ii) flexible windows or partitions that fold away may be of plastic material, and  
iii) windows in trailers and in caravans may be of ordinary acrylic or polyc arbonate plastics 
materials.  DUS 845: 20 17 
10 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 7.2 Wipers  and washer  
The Windshield  shall be provided with wi pers capable of cleaning the Windshield . The wipers shall function 
normally and its blades shall be free from damage.  Windscreen washers (where fitted) shall be in good 
working order.  
7.3 Rear view and side mirrors  
The mirror s shall be effective, firmly in stalled, and the  surface s shall be free from smudges, distortion and 
cracking.  
The mirror s shall be so structured that their  orientation can be easily adjusted and maintained.  
7.4 Lighting devices and reflectors  
Lighting devices and reflectors shall functi on normally and shall be free from damage and dirt.  
A vehicle shall be fitted with the following lighting devices;  
a) headlamps with main and dipped beams ; 
b) front position lamps ; 
c) rear lamps ; 
d) stop lamps ; and  
e) registration plate lamp(s) ; or  
B any lamp listed  above shall be securely fitted, free from damage, and in good working order.  
7.4.1  Headlamps  
The light from headlamps shall be white and the colour of all headlamps shall be identical.  
7.4.2  Brake lights  
The light from brake lamps shall be red, and the brak e lamps shall be automatically turned on when the main 
brake system is activated.  
7.4.3  Number plate lights  
The light from license plate lamps shall be white in colour and the licence plates lamps shall be  so structured 
that they are  on, when the headlamps  and/or parking lights are on.  
7.4.4  Parking lights  
The light from  the rear  parking lamps shall be red in colour and the front ones amber  or white ; parking lamps 
shall be so structured that they are on whenever the headla mps are on . The colour of left and right parking 
lamps shall be identical.  
7.4.5  Reverse lights  
The light from reverse  lamps shall be white in colour.  DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  11 
 7.4.6  Indicating lights  
Indicator lights lamps shall be installed at the front and rear of an automobile, and shall be positioned 
bilaterall y and symmetrically in pairs, respectively. The light from the indicator lamps shall be orange, and the 
lights shall flash 60 through 120 times per minute.  
7.4.7  Chevron r eflectors  
Reflectors used shall be in accordance with requirements specified in US 533. 
7.4.8  Warning lights  
Where installed, w arning and information lights e.g oil pressu re, charging, parking brake, open doors, seat 
belts etc.  shall function effectively.  
7.4.9 Hazard warning flashing lights  
Hazard warning flashing lights shall be installe d bilaterally and symmetrically and shall function properly. The 
hazard warning flashing lights shall be free from damage and shall be orange or light yellow.  
8 Doors, seats and seat belts  
8.1 Doors  
A door should be properly secured : 
a) hinges, catc hes or pil lars of a door should not be lose to compromise its security ; 
b) a door should be able to be opened from both the inside and the outside  (except in the case of official 
security vehicles or where child locks are installed) ; and  
c) a safety catch should be  funct ioning correctly . 
8.2 Seats  
All th e seats shall be firmly secured as follows:  
a) seat adjust ments shall operate effectively;  
b) seat should be of  a type or design intended for installation in a motor vehicle;  
c) Any part of any seat assembly, supporting structure, cushion ; or 
d) back rest should not be; damaged, worn or designed so as to create a hazard to  the occupant of the 
seat, regardless of seating position . 
8.3 Seat belts  
The S eat belts shall conform to  US 545  and US 546 . 
9 Frame and vehicle body  
9.1 Frame  
9.1.1 The frame of an automobile shall be sufficie ntly rigid to serve purpose.  
9.1.2 The frame shall be free from crack s, damage or advanced corrosion, deformation or misalignment.  DUS 845: 20 17 
12 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 9.1.3 No loose or missing or insecure rivets,  bolts and other fasteners . 
9.1.4 No cracked or unsatisfactory weld.  
9.1.5 Repairs or modifications  not in-line with manufacturer’s  recommendation are not permitted.  
9.2 Vehicle body  
9.2.1 The vehicle body shall be reliably secured on the frame, and shall not be  loosened by vibration or 
impa ct. Any serious damage to an outer panel shall be remedied.  
9.2.2 The contour and any other shape of the vehicle body shall not contain any sharp projections, 
protruded rotating parts or any other elements that may interfere with the safe ty of traffic .  
9.2.3 Any cracking, corrosion or distortion in parts such as pillars  and the floorboard, which constitute the 
fundamental s of a vehicle body and sills, shall be remedied.  
9.2.4 Modifications not in -line with manufacturer’s recommendation are not permitted.  
9.3 Goods -carrying equipment  
Goods -carrying equipment  e.g. cargo beds, racks etc.  shall be capable of carrying goods safely and reliably.  
10 Vehicle dimensions  
10.1 Overall length  
10.1.1 A bus -train shall not exceed 20 m.  
10.1.2 A single vehicle, excluding a semi -trailer , including any drawbar or coupling, shall  not exceed 12.5 m.  
10.1.3 A trailer with one axle or axle unit (other than a semi -trailer ), the GVM of which does not exceed 12  
000 kg, shall not exceed 8 m, excluding the length of the drawbar or co upling;  
10.1.4 An articulated motor vehicle or other combination of motor vehicles consisting  of drawing vehicle and 
a semi trailer, including any draw bar or coupling, shall not exceed 17 m.  
10.1.5 A distance between the drawing vehicle and the trailer, s hall not exceed  1.8 m, including any drawbar 
or coupling.  
10.1.6 A trailer with one axle or axle unit (other than a semi trailer) the GVM of which exceeds 12  000 kg, 
shall not exceed 11.3 m, excluding the length of the drawbar or coupling.  
10.1.7 A trailer  not referred to in 9.1.3, 9.1.5 and 9.1.6 above (other than a semi trailer), the GVM of which 
exceeds 12  000 kg, shall not exceed 12.5 m excluding the length of any drawbar or coupling.  
10.1.8 Any other combination of vehicles including any drawbar or cou pling shall not  exceed 22 m.  
10.2 Overall overhang -front overhang  
Measure the distance between the front axle and the front of the bumper and observe the following:  
a) semi -trailer shall not exceed 1.8 m ; or 
b) any vehicle ( other than trailer or trailer with axl e unit) shall not : 
i) exceed 60  % of the base ; DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  13 
 ii) exceed 6.2 m less half of the wheel base, in the case of vehicle in which the front surface of the 
backrest of the drivers’ s eat and seat level is within 1.7 m of the front end of the vehicle , when 
such seat, if  adjustable, is in the rear position ; or 
iii) exceed 5.8 m less half the wheel base, in the case of any other vehicle.  
10.3 Coupling device  
10.3.1 The coupling device shall be rigid and so structured that it will provide secure coupling. The coupling 
device sha ll not be disconnected due to vibration or impact during driving and shall sufficiently withstand 
driving.  
10.3.2 The coupler of the coupling device shall be installed without looseness  and shall function effectively . 
The pitching shaft, rolling shaft, and  bearings shall be free from wear and damage . 
10.3.3 The kingpin of the coupling device for trailers shall  be installed without looseness . 
10.3.4 The pintle hook  and lunette eye installed on trucks etc, shall be reliably operatable and free from 
damage . 
11 Odometer and other instruments  
11.1 Odometer  
The Odometer should not have been tampered with to misrepresent the true mileage  
11.2 Other dashboard gauges/indicators  
Dash board lighting shall be functional  
Dash board instruments such as water temperature gauge, fuel gauge, and tachometer, etc shall function 
properly.  
12 Air conditioning system  
Where an air conditioning/refrigeration system is fitted, the refrigerant shall not be chlorofluorocarbons 
(CFCS).  
13 Radiation  
When the vehicle is subjected to dos e rate test as described in Annex F, the radiation dose rate shall not 
exceed 0.3 µSv/hr.  
14 Documentation  
The following information shall be made available:  
a) certificate  of roadworthiness , attesting conformity to the requirements of this standard , issued  by an 
inspector . The certificate should be properly linked to the particular vehicle using a unique identifier. e.g . 
Chassis Number,  Vehicle Identification number(VIN),registration plate number etc ; 
b) appraisal information showing model, year of manufact ure, engin e capacity and mileage; and  
c) for an imported vehicle, certificate of road worthiness shall be valid for a period of 12 months from the 
date of issue , and for vehicles already registered in Uganda, the validity shall be as specified in The 
Traffic And Road Safety (Motor Vehicle Inspection)  Regulations.  DUS 845: 20 17 
14 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 Annex  A 
(normative ) 
 
Wheel alignment testing  
A.1 Purpose  
This annex sets out the assessment of the wheel slip sideways, to be measured while the vehicle is travelling. 
The unit of scale employed o n measuring the slip is generally (m/km) is the amount of the wheel slip 
perpendicular to the direction of travel as the vehicle makes a straight drive for 1 km.  
A.2 Apparatus  
The tester may be either mechanical or electrical depending on the method by whi ch the amount of movement 
of the board is detected and transmitted to the indicator. The length of the running board is available in either 
500 mm, 800 mm, or 1000 mm.  
A.3 Procedure  
Before performing the test, make sure that there is no dirt on the board a nd that the boards  and the indicator 
are functioning properly. Then let the vehicle run straight parallel to the centre  line of the tester at 4 km/h and 
read the maximum amount of slip indicated on the scale, before the front wheels completely pass the boa rds: 
Make necessary adjustments to the vehicle wheel alignment if the reading is 5 mm or more or even when less 
than 5 mm or if the figure is different from the value designated from the given vehicle.  DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  15 
 Annex B 
(normative ) 
 
Brake testing  
B.1 Purpose  
This an nex sets out the assessment of the braking capacity of the vehicle. The widely used testers are roller 
driven. The rollers rotate with the wheels placed on top of them. The rollers are motor driven supplied in a set 
of two,  one for each wheel. When brakes are applied, a rotation resistance is applied to the roller that creates 
torque in the direction opposite to the roller rotation . 
B.2 Apparatus  
There are various types of testing equipments such as the roller gearbox driven type and roller driven wo rn 
shaft type.  
B.3 Procedures  
Turn on the motor and let the rollers run idle to check that they are smoothly rotating. Make sure the needle 
indicator is adjusted to zero.  
Turn off the motor and move the vehicle to place its wheels on top of and perpendicular to t he rollers. Make 
sure that each of the wheels to be measured are firmly supported by two rollers.  
Turn on the motor and let the rollers rotate. Before applying the brakes, check the reading on the indicator and 
make sure there is no drag of brakes. Then sl owly step on the brake pedal. Gradually press down the pedal. 
The wheels will be eventually locked and the reading on the indicator will become constant.  
Read the value indicated immediately prior to the locking of the wheels. This value is usually the max imum 
braking force.  
Measure the braking force of both front and rear wheels.  DUS 845: 20 17 
16 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 Annex C 
(normative ) 
 
Exhaust emissions  testing  
C.1 Purpose  
The test is done to measure the volumetric concentrations of CO and HC emissions at idling and not at slightly 
higher sp eed and load.  
C.2 Apparatus  
The apparatus used should be an independent exhaust - gas analyzer unit or part of engine analyzer.  
C.3 Procedures  
Procedures for calibrating and using exhaust gas analysers vary with the make and model of testers so 
emphasis sh all be put on careful reading of the instructions for the analyzer.  
Make necessary connections (electrical supply etc), urn on the analyzer, warm the equipment and calibrate 
the HC and CO meters for zero reading.  
Check the system to be sure it is leak free . 
To measure the amount of CO, run the engine at fast idle (say 1 500  rpm to 2 000 rpm for about 30 s ), then 
run the engine at its specified idle speed and read CO on the CO meter.  
To measure the HC, run the engine at fast idle (1500  rpm - 2000 rpm for abo ut 30 s), then run the engine at its 
specified idle speed then read HC on the HC meter.  
For diesel engine, vehicle measurement is done under no load and quickly accelerated and the percentage of 
smoke is read from the smoke meter or inspection done visuall y. DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  17 
 Annex D 
(normative ) 
 
Head light testing  
D.1 Purpose  
This annex sets out test for determining the luminosity and direction of irradiation (am) of the headlamp 
manually. The luminosity is expressed in candela (cd) and the direction of irradiation is gener ally indicated by 
the amount (in cm or mm) which the main optical axis oscillates at a 10m distance in the front or as specified 
by the vehicle manufacturer as to agreed standards.  
D.2 Apparatus  
There are various types of testers according to the methodolo gy and specifications of measurements. The 
types of headlight testers are classified into types: screen type, projecting type and automatic tester ( Le. 
automatic optic axis tracking testing) type.  
D.3 Procedure  
The arrangement shall be done as shown in Figure D .1. The results shown in Figure D .2 and FigureD .3 
together with the following general guidelines on handling a headlight tester shall also be observed:  
a) air pressure of all the tyres is of standard/specified value;  
b) there is no inclination of vehicle bo dy due to damaged springs;  
c) the tester and the vehicle are precisely facing each other;  
d) the testing floor is flat;  
e) the distance between the tester and the vehicle headlamp is accurate;  
f) the engine is running and its battery is being charged while testing;  and 
g) the vehicle should be unladen with one driver on board.  
NOTE  Luminosity refers to the brightness of light source and is expressed in candelas (cd) where as illumination 
refers to the brightness of the irradiated surface and is expressed in luxes (Ix).  
 DUS 845: 20 17 
18 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 
 DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  19 
 
 
 DUS 845: 20 17 
20 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 Annex E 
(normat ive) 
 
Sound level testing  
E.1 Purpose  
This annex sets out assessment of the levels of noises produced by the vehicle and the sound of its ho rn. The 
gauge simulates human auditory perception. The audit level is indicated in dB (A) units.  
Also sound can be expressed in many physical quantities other than dB (A) such as in Pascal (Pa) unit of 
pressure, sound power (watts), intensity (sound/surface) in watts  per square metre (W/m2) or particle speed 
(m/s).  
NOTE  1 
olog20 dB level Sound
PP
  
wher e  
P0 is the lowest audible sound of 20 MPa  
NOTE 2  1 Pa = 1  N/m2  
 1 atm = 105 Pa  
E.2 Apparatus  
Apparatus uses microphone that converts sound captioned in electrical current and its level is indicated on the 
indicator in dB(A).  
E.3 Procedures  
Calibrate the indicator before use, follow specific instructions as to the gauge settings and measurements 
taking. Note the specific settings for measuring of exhaust noises and sound level of the horn, careful noting 
placement of a gauge to avoid interference of backgr ound noises and reflected sounds. Make adjustments for 
such noises where such noises cannot be avoided.  DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  21 
 Annex F  
(normative)  
 
Radiation Measurement test  
F.1 Purpose  
The aim of the test is to measure radiation dose on the surface, interior and on the tyres o f the Motor vehicles 
when the vehicle is stationery.  
F.2 Apparatus  
The apparatus or equipment to be used for the measurement should be a handheld radiation alert detector 
such as Geiger Muller  (GM) tube, Scintillator counter, Ionization chamber, Semi -condu ctor survey meter etc.  
calibrated to an accuracy of ±10% of the measure ranging from 0.1µSv/h and a stop watch.  
F.3 Procedures  
F.3.1  The Equipment for measuring the dose rate should be placed as close as possible to the surface of 
the measuring point,  though it shall not be in contact with the surface.  
F.3.2  The measurement should take place in such a manner that the time of measurement is sufficient for 
the equipment to stabilize to indicate the dose rate and that both the maximum and minimum for the 
respe ctive point are recorded.  
To fully calculate and understand the amount of dose radiation at the given point,  measure five to ten times 
and take an average.  DUS 845: 20 17 
22 © UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  
 Annex G 
(normative)  
 
Measurement of exhaust smoke Opacity  
G.1 Purpose  
The purpose of the test is to measure the smoke Opacity for a stationary diesel engine vehicle  
G.2 Apparatus  
The snap -acceleration smoke test requires the use of smoke measurement and data processing by an 
opacimeter. The operating instructions supplied by the processing unit manufactu rer should be consulted  for 
specific equipment set -up procedures.  
G.3 Procedure  
Choke Wheels . 
Prior to preconditioning test, the vehicle should be under load for at least 15min to ensure that the engine is 
warmed -up. Alternatively, vehicle water and oil te mperature gauges may be checked to verify that the engine 
is within its normal operating temperature range . 
All devices installed on the engine or vehicle which alter the normal acceleration characteristics of the engine 
e.g. air conditioning system, engin e brake , etc should be switched off. These have the effect of temporarily 
lowering the snap -acceleration test results, or preventing the test from being successfully completed.  
Place Transmission in neutral.  
With the engine warmed -up and at low idle speed:  
Insert exhaust probe  
The operator shall snap accelerator/hold the throttle in fully open position until the time the engine reaches its 
maximum governed speed, plus an additional 1 to 4s and opacity reading taken.  
Upon completion of the 1 to 4s with the e ngine at its maximum governed speed, the operator shall release the 
throttle and allow the engine to return to the low idle speed.  
 Once the engine reaches its low idle speed, the operator shall allow the engine to remain at idle for a 
minimum of 5s, but n o longer than 45s, before initiating the next snap -acceleration test cycle. The time period 
at low idle allows the engine's turbocharger (if equipped) to decelerate to its normal speed at engine idle.  
The snap acceleration test is repeated a minimum of fiv e times .Average three last readings to determine pass 
or fail  DUS 845: 20 17 
© UNBS 2017  – All rights reserved  23 
 Bibliography  
[1] JAAI 16 -303, Inspection standard for exported used cars publ ished by Japan Auto Appraisal Institute 
(JAAI ) 
[2] SABS 047, The  testing of motor vehicle for roadworthiness publish ed by the South African Bureau of 
Standards  
[3] SAE J1667 , Recommended practice Snap acceleration smoke test procedure  
[4] TZS 698,  Road vehicles -Code of practice for inspection and testing of used motor vehicles for road 
worthiness  
[5] US 479 , Code of pra ctice –Inspection of road vehicle s for road worthiness  
[6] US EAS 358,  Pneumatic tyres for passenger cars -Specifications  
[7] The Uganda National Bureau of St andards -Imports Inspection and C learance Regulations  
[8] The Traffic and Road Safety (Motor Vehicle  Inspection)  Regulation  Uganda  
[9] The Traffic and Road Safety Act  
 US 845: 2008  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  25 
 Certification marking  
Products that conform to Uganda standards may be marked with Uganda National Bureau of Standards 
(UNBS) Certification Mark shown in the figure below.  
The use of the  UNBS Certification Mark is governed by the Standards Act, and the Regulations made 
thereunder. This mark can be used only by those licensed under the certification mark scheme operated by 
the Uganda National Bureau of Standards and in conjunction with the  relevant Uganda Standard. The 
presence of this mark on a product or in relation to a product is an assurance that the goods comply with the 
requirements of that standard under a system of supervision, control and testing in accordance with the 
certificati on mark scheme of the Uganda National Bureau of Standards. UNBS marked products are 
continually checked by UNBS for conformity to that standard.  
Further particulars of the terms and conditions of licensing may be obtained from the Director, Uganda 
Nationa l Bureau of Standards.  
 
 DUS 845: 20 17   
 
ICS nn.nnn.n n 
Price based on 30 pages  
© UNBS 20 17 – All rights reserved