The Government of the Russian Federation has introduced a definitive list of vehicle malfunctions that prevent starting a vehicle. This guidance, released through the press office of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, marks a formal standard for assessing whether a car may be operated when certain faults are present. The rule is not simply advisory; it is a regulatory measure designed to reduce the risk of accidents caused by compromised starting conditions and to ensure a uniform approach across the country to vehicle safety checks and vehicle readiness before use.
Effective from September 1, 2023, the new provisions update the Basic Provisions concerning vehicle commissioning and also redefine the responsibilities of road safety officers. These changes aim to align starting procedures with contemporary vehicle technology and safety systems, acknowledging that modern cars and trailers increasingly rely on advanced components that influence the ability to start and safely operate a vehicle. The shift reflects a broader move toward standardizing enforcement and inspection practices as vehicle design evolves in response to features like electronic control units and smart safety systems.
The decision to expand the list of accountable malfunctions stems from observable evolutions in car design and the growing prevalence of key safety features. Components and systems such as anti-lock braking systems, tires with wear indicators, inertia seat belts, and automated control mechanisms have become integral to modern vehicles. These elements can interact with starting and operating functions in ways that demand clearer regulatory guidance to prevent unsafe use when faults are present. As such, the regulation recognizes these technologies as part of the broader automotive safety ecosystem and places emphasis on ensuring they do not operate while compromised.
In addition to starting-related criteria, the government clarified the standards governing brake systems, steering, exterior lighting, and engine performance. The revision also introduces heightened requirements for buses, and it specifies that operations must be halted when corrosion or floor decay within the cabin is detected. The scope of the rules has been broadened to include special vehicles, with tractors and similar machinery now subject to updated performance and safety criteria during commissioning and inspection. These measures collectively aim to raise the baseline for what is considered roadworthy and to reduce the likelihood of mechanical failures that could lead to dangerous situations on the road.
Changes were also made to the methods used to detect vehicle malfunctions, ensuring that assessments reflect current technology and the practical realities of modern vehicle systems. By updating detection procedures, authorities can more reliably identify faults that could impair starting, braking, steering, or lighting, and take timely action to prevent unsafe operation. The intent behind these adjustments is to create a clearer, more enforceable framework that supports consistent enforcement across different regions and vehicle categories.
The public record notes several notable incidents that illustrate the importance of robust malfunction detection and regulatory oversight. For example, there was a report of a heavy truck leaving the Moscow Ring Road at high speed and colliding with a car parked on the roadside. While such events have multiple contributing factors, they underscore why reliable starting and functional safety systems are essential and why regulatory authorities continually refine guidelines to address emerging risks associated with newer vehicle designs and technologies. Authorities emphasize that the aim is not to complicate daily driving but to enhance overall safety by ensuring vehicles can be started only when they meet stringent safety criteria and inspection standards.