Do Android Screens & Digital Clusters Pass the MOT? The Truth About Compliance
We debunk the myths and explain what the regulations say about modifying your car's interior electronics.
One of the most frequent questions we get at R_PROJEKT is: "If I install this, will I fail my MOT?" It's a logical fear given strict vehicle safety standards. However, the reality is much more favorable than what you often read on forums.
Below, we clarify the key points regarding Vehicle Inspections (MOT) and our accessories.
The Golden Rule: Safety and Visibility
Inspection guidelines focus primarily on ensuring modifications do not affect active/passive safety or the driver's visibility.
Our screens and digital clusters comply with these basic principles:
- No Chassis Modification: They install into original mounting points without drilling.
- No Sharp Edges: Smooth, integrated designs suitable for vehicle interiors.
- No Visibility Obstruction: They respect the height of the original dashboard (retaining the factory line of sight).
What about Digital Instrument Clusters?
This is the most sensitive point. For a digital cluster to be legal and pass an inspection, it must fulfill one essential function: Correctly display mandatory warning lights (Tell-tales) and mileage.
Our digital clusters for BMW, VW, and Mercedes read information directly from the car's ECU. This means if you have an engine fault, low oil, airbag, or ABS warning, the light will illuminate on the digital screen just as it did on the analog one. As long as the tester can see the total mileage and check the warning lights, the cluster is compliant.
Tips for Inspection Day
Even though the product is compliant, we always recommend making the inspector's job easier to avoid unnecessary questions:
- Clean Installation: Ensure there are no USB cables hanging loosely around the dashboard or poorly attached microphones.
- Discreet Interface: If you have an Android Screen, when entering the test lane, leave it on the main menu (with the car logo) or the original vehicle interface. Avoid entering with Netflix or music videos playing.
- Original Functions: Check beforehand that hazard lights, central locking, and light switches work correctly through the new panel (if applicable).
The "Non-Destructive" Advantage
All our systems are Plug & Play. We don't cut wires or solder anything. This means that, in the extremely rare case a very strict inspector raises an issue, you can swap back to the original unit in 20 minutes, pass the test, and reinstall the screen.
Conclusion: Thousands of customers have passed their inspections with our equipment without issues. Modernizing your car is not illegal, provided it is done with quality equipment that respects the vehicle's functionality.