# COMAR Title 11 — Department of Transportation

## Subtitle 14 — Motor Vehicle Administration — Vehicle Inspections

### Chapter 09 — Safety Standards for Low Speed Vehicles

**Authority:** Transportation Article, §§12-104(b), 21-1104(d), 22-101, and 23-101—23-105, Annotated Code of Maryland; 49 CFR §571.500

**Administrative History:** Effective date:

**Administrative History:** Regulations .01—.27 adopted as an emergency provision effective January 1, 2006 (33:4 Md. R. 349); emergency provision extended at 33:15 Md. R. 1275; emergency status expired December 28, 2006

**Administrative History:** Regulations .01—.27 adopted as an emergency provision effective March 9, 2007 (34:9 Md. R. 824); emergency provision expired September 5, 2007

**Administrative History:** Regulations .01—.26 adopted effective September 10, 2007 (34:18 Md. R. 1580)

#### Regulation .01 Applicability.

*COMAR 11.14.09.01*

A. The standards, requirements, and procedures set forth in this chapter are applicable to originally manufactured low speed vehicles with originally installed equipment or equipment manufactured and installed to meet the federal and State requirements for low speed vehicles. Any questions regarding low speed vehicle standards or specifications shall be referred to the Automotive Safety Enforcement Division of the Department of State Police.

B. A low speed vehicle shall comply with federal standards under 49 CFR §571.500. A federal motor vehicle safety certification label shall be affixed to the vehicle identifying it as a “Low Speed Vehicle” for the regulations of this chapter to apply.

C. The vehicle shall be equipped with the manufacturer's owner's/operator's manual at the time the vehicle is undergoing a State inspection. The vehicle owner or agent may be required to present to the inspection station any manufacturer's testing procedures or specifications required for inspection.

D. It is recommended that the vehicle owner or agent, before presenting the vehicle for inspection, charge the battery systems as prescribed by the vehicle manufacturer to ensure the vehicle operates at peak efficiency to prevent unnecessary rejection of components due to a weak or low battery.

#### Regulation .02 Incorporation by Reference.

*COMAR 11.14.09.02*

In this chapter, Surface Vehicle Standards for Low Speed Vehicles, SAE J2358 (Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc., March 2002) is incorporated by reference.

#### Regulation .03 Performance.

*COMAR 11.14.09.03*

A. Due to the vehicle's required speed limitations and the restricted highways where operation is permitted, a road test is not required. The vehicle, however, must be capable of moving under its own power in and out of the inspection area. The vehicle will be required to function as designed in all operational settings. Observe for any adverse steering, handling, or braking reactions.

#### Regulation .04 Steering, Alignment, and Suspension.

*COMAR 11.14.09.04*

A. Steering. Inspect the entire steering system including steering wheel, steering column, lash, linkage, free play, and power steering, if so equipped, for missing, loose, damaged, or worn parts.

  (1) Steering Wheel. The steering wheel shall be inspected to determine if it is circular (complete rim) and free of cracks, breaks, or objects that will interfere with the safe steering of the vehicle. The inspection must determine that the steering wheel is original equipment or equivalent, including diameter.

  (2) Steering Column. Inspection of steering column shall be made to determine if there are any missing, broken, or worn parts and if the column is securely attached to vehicle. If equipped with an energy absorbing steering column, inspect to determine if steering column is capable of functioning as designed and shows no indication of having been collapsed.

  (3) Lash.

  (4) Travel.

  (5) Linkage.

  (6) Power Steering (If so equipped).

Linkage Play. Excessive free play causes wheel shimmy, erratic brake action, and steering control problems. Make sure any looseness detected is not wheel bearing free play.

B. Wheel Alignment.

C. Suspension. Inspect the suspension system for missing, broken, damaged, worn, rusted, or modified wheel bearings, ball joints, control arms, springs, torsion bars, or frame that would affect vehicle stability.

  (1) Frame/Unibody.

  (2) Ball Joints. In checking for motion of ball joints, check in accordance with manufacturer's procedures and specifications. When required for testing, a 12-inch to 18-inch pry bar shall be utilized which is sufficient to lift the weight of the wheel assembly and prevent excessive pressure or leverage resulting in a possible false reading.

  (3) Wheel Bearings. Wheel bearings worn or out of adjustment can cause wander, unequal brake action, and noise due to interference of parts.

  (4) Springs and Torsion Bars. Loose, sagging, or broken springs or torsion bars, worn or deteriorated bushings, loose or extended shackles, and loose or mislocated U-bolts, suspension modifications, or broken center bolts, can cause vehicle handling instability and brake pull.

  (5) Shock Absorbers and Struts.

#### Regulation .05 Brakes.

*COMAR 11.14.09.05*

A. Hydraulic System.

  (1) Tests and Visual Inspection Procedures. Results will indicate whether or not a vehicle has reasonably safe brakes at the time of inspection. These procedures are applicable to vehicles equipped with hand controls for the physically handicapped. If equipped with power assisted hydraulic brakes, system shall be functioning as designed.

  (2) All four wheels shall be removed for brake inspection. Do not remove wheel cylinder dust boots for inspection. Leakage can be determined by pushing on the outside of the boot.

B. Drums and Discs.

  (1) All four wheels shall be removed for brake inspection. On vehicles equipped with disc brakes some drag can be felt when turning the wheel and tire. This drag is not excessive if the wheel can be turned readily with one hand.

C. Linings and Pads. Remove all wheels and drum assemblies for inspection of linings on drum brakes. On vehicles equipped with disc brakes, only removal of the wheels is necessary.

D. Mechanical Linkage. Mechanical linkage includes the service brake mechanism, parking brake, and manual controls on vehicles equipped for physically handicapped persons.

E. Power Assisted Brake Systems (If so equipped).

F. Parking Brake.

  (1) Parking Brake Function. A positive locking brake shall be provided. It shall be either a hand or foot operated type mechanism as described in SAE J2358, which is incorporated by reference in Regulation .02 of this chapter.

  (2) Any parking brake shall hold a stopped vehicle firmly on all normal road grades.

G. Definitions.

  (1) “Brake system” means a combination of one or more brakes and their related means of operation and control and is equipped with brakes acting on all wheels.

  (2) “Emergency brake system” means a brake system used for retarding and stopping the vehicle in the event of a malfunction in the service brake system. This function may be performed by the parking brake system or by a portion of the service brake system, or by a separate brake system.

  (3) “Parking brake system” means a brake system used to hold and maintain a vehicle in a stationary position with a positive mechanical means employed to hold the brake applied when the vehicle is unattended.

  (4) “Pedal reserve”, as applied to hydraulic, mechanical, or power-assisted hydraulic brakes, means the amount of total pedal travel left in reserve when the pedal is depressed to the brake-applied position. The pedal reserve check is to ascertain the degree of the brake adjustment and to demonstrate satisfactory brake actuating system condition.

  (5) “Service brake system” means a brake system used for retarding, stopping, and controlling the vehicle under normal operating conditions.

  (6) “Stopping distance” means the distance traveled by a vehicle from the point of application of force to the brake control, to the point at which the vehicle reaches a full stop.

#### Regulation .06 Wheels and Tires.

*COMAR 11.14.09.06*

A. This inspection requires the vehicle to be raised on an approved lift.

#### Regulation .07 Bumpers (If so equipped).

*COMAR 11.14.09.07*

A. Bumpers are not required on low speed vehicles. However, if so equipped, they shall be inspected for broken or missing parts, sharp edges, or other conditions that could be hazardous to individuals. The bumpers shall be securely mounted to the vehicle.

#### Regulation .08 Fenders and Flaps.

*COMAR 11.14.09.08*

A. A low speed vehicle shall be equipped with fender coverage of front and rear wheels. Inspection shall include condition, mounting, and coverage of wheels and tires.

#### Regulation .09 Lighting.

*COMAR 11.14.09.09*

A. Definitions.

  (1) “Asymmetrical beam (nonsymmetrical)” means a beam in which both sides are not symmetrical with respect to the median vertical plane of the beam. All lower beams are asymmetrical.

  (2) “Auxiliary driving lamp, auxiliary upper beam lamp, or auxiliary high beam lamp” means a lighting device mounted to provide illumination forward of the vehicle and intended to supplement the upper beam of a standard headlamp system. It is not intended for use alone or with the lower beam of a standard headlamp system.

  (3) “Backup lamp” means a lamp used to provide illumination behind the vehicle, and to provide an indicator when the vehicle is in reverse gear.

  (4) “Charge indicator” means a light, gauge, or other source indicating battery charge remaining.

  (5) “Cornering lamp” means a steadily burning lamp used when the turn signal system is operating to supplement the headlamps by providing additional road illumination in the direction of the turn.

  (6) “Emergency warning lamp” means a lamp that provides a flashing light to identify an authorized vehicle on an emergency mission. The emergency signal may be an oscillating lamp, a rotating beacon, or pairs of alternately or simultaneously flashing lamps.

  (7) “Fog lamp” means a lamp that may be used with the lower beam headlights to provide illumination under condition of rain, snow, dust, or fog.

  (8) “Hazard warning lamp” means a turn signal lamp that flashes simultaneously to warn of the presence of a vehicular hazard.

  (9) Headlamps.

    (a) 5 3/4 Inch Round Sealed Beam Unit.

      (i) “Type 1 sealed beam” means a sealed beam unit 5 3/4 inches in diameter having a single filament and providing only an upper beam distribution of light. This unit is identified by the number 1 on the lens and is aimed on the upper beam.

      (ii) “Type 2 sealed beam unit” means a sealed beam unit 5 3/4 inches in diameter having two filaments, one filament providing the lower beam and one filament providing fill-in light for the upper beam. This unit is identified by the number 2 on the lens and is aimed on the lower beam.

    (b) "7 inch round sealed beam unit" means a sealed beam unit 7 inches in diameter providing an upper and lower beam. This unit is identified by the number 2 on the lens and is aimed on the lower beam. If there is no identifying number on the lens, it means the sealed beam unit is 7 inches in diameter providing upper and lower beams.

    (c) "8 inch by 5 inch rectangular sealed beam unit" means a sealed beam unit providing an upper and lower beam. This unit is identified by the number 2B on the lens and is aimed on the lower beam.

    (d) 6 1/2 by 4 1/4 Inch Rectangular Sealed Beam Unit.

      (i) “Type 1A” means a sealed beam unit having a single filament and providing only an upper beam distribution of light. The unit is identified by the number 1A on the lens and is aimed on the upper beam.

      (ii) “Type 2A” means a sealed beam unit having two filaments, one of which provides fill-in light for the upper beam. This unit is identified by the number 2A on the lens and is aimed on the lower beam.

    (e) 5.93 X 3.64 inch Rectangular Sealed Beam Units.

      (i) “Type LF” means a sealed beam unit having a single beam filament and providing only a lower beam distribution of light. The unit is identified by the designation LF on the lens.

      (ii) “Type UF” means a sealed beam unit having a single beam filament and providing only an upper beam distribution of light. The unit is identified by the designation UF on the lens.

    (f) “Replaceable bulb headlamp” means a headlamp unit comprised of one or two replaceable standard light sources such as a bulb and a headlamp housing or a lens/reflector unit.

  (10) “Headlamp lower beam” means a distribution of light as directed to avoid glare in the eyes of oncoming drivers while providing illumination ahead of the vehicle, and intended for use in congested areas and on highways when meeting other vehicles within a distance of 500 feet.

  (11) “Headlamp upper beam” means a distribution of light intended primarily for distant illumination and for use on the open highway when not meeting other vehicles.

  (12) “Indicator lamp” means a lamp visible to the operator of a vehicle that indicates:

    (a) Appropriate electrical circuits are in operation;

    (b) Malfunction of vehicle performance; and

    (c) Requirement for remedial action by the operator of the vehicle.

  (13) “Lamp” means a device used to produce artificial light.

  (14) “Lane changer” means a device, usually incorporated in the turn signal switch, which will actuate the turn signal lamps when held by the driver. It is intended for momentary use for signaling a lane change. When released by the operator, it will return to neutral and deactivate the signal lamp.

  (15) “License-plate lamp” means a lamp used to illuminate the license plate on the rear of a vehicle.

  (16) “Operating units or switches” means devices by which the functioning of lamps is controlled.

  (17) “Parking lamp” means lamps used to designate the front of a parked vehicle.

  (18) “Reflective device” means a device used on vehicles to give an indication to an approaching driver by reflected light from the headlamps of approaching vehicles.

  (19) “SAE Lighting Identification Code” means a series of standardized markings for lighting devices that a manufacturer or a supplier may use to mark a product to indicate the SAE lighting standard or standards to which the device is designed to conform. The code is not intended to limit the manufacturer or supplier in applying other markings to the devices.

  (20) “Sealed beam headlamp assembly” means a major lighting device used to provide general illumination ahead of the vehicle. It consists of the following:

    (a) One or more sealed beam units (bulb assembly);

    (b) Means for mounting securely to the vehicle; and

    (c) Means to permit required aim adjustment.

  (21) “Sealed beam unit” means an integral and hermetically sealed optical assembly with the name “Sealed Beam” molded in the lens.

  (22) “Side marker lamp” means a lamp on the left and right sides, beamed to the side and intended to indicate vehicle length. They are located near the front and rear on each side and, for vehicles 30 feet or more in overall length, are also located at the midpoint (intermediate side marker).

  (23) “Stop lamp” means a lamp giving a steady warning light to the rear of the vehicle, to indicate the intention of the operator of the vehicle to reduce speed or stop.

  (24) “Symmetrical beam” means one in which both sides are symmetrical with respect to the median vertical plane of the beam. Lamps having symmetrical beams are:

    (a) 5 3/4 inch diameter type 1, 1C, or 1C1;

    (b) 5 3/4 inch diameter type 2, 2C, or 2C1 (upper beam filament);

    (c) 6 1/2 by 4 1/4 inch type 1A or 1A1;

    (d) 6 1/2 by 4 1/4 inch type 2A, 2A1, 2G1, 2E1, or 2H1 (upper beam filament);

    (e) 8 by 5 inch type 2B or 2B1 (upper beam filament);

    (f) All 7 inch diameter units (upper beam filament); and

    (g) Replaceable bulb headlamp (upper beam filament).

  (25) “Tail lamp” means a lamp used to designate the rear of a vehicle.

  (26) “Turn signal lamp” means a lamp that provides a flashing warning light to indicate the intended direction of the turn.

Agency Note: The following are some examples of replaceable bulb headlamps, Type—HB1—9004 (low and high beam); HB2—9003 (low and high beam); HB3—9005 (high beam); HB4—9006 (low beam); and HB5—9007 (low and high beam). For more information and a complete list of replaceable bulb headlamps, consult an automotive lighting reference or specification guide, or vehicle manufacturer.

B. General Lamp and Reflector Inspection. This includes all original or required equipment, exterior lighting plus whatever lights are authorized.

  (3) Aim Inspection.

C. Headlamps. Only low beam headlamps are currently required on low speed vehicles. If a low speed vehicle is equipped with high and low beam headlamps, both lamps are required to function. A low beam headlamp shall have a minimum of 3,500 candlepower and a high beam headlamp a minimum of 5,000 candlepower. Headlamps that incorporate both high and low beam in the same assembly will be aligned on low beam. Headlamp inspection and aiming by computer image processing method requires a level area sufficient for the vehicle and test equipment. The test equipment shall be accurately calibrated to the floor and accurately aligned to the vehicle.

  (2) High Beam. Required to function, if so equipped. Inspect aim of high beam lamp only if high beam lamp has separate adjustment from low beam lamp.

  (3) Non-Headlamps. Lighting installed by the vehicle manufacturer and used as headlamps, which are not properly marked as headlamps, excluding multibeam road lighting (high and low beam headlamps) that are improperly marked, or are types of lamps identified as other than headlamps. See Agency Note in §C Headlamps.

D. Fog Lamp and Auxiliary Driving Lamps. Only one spot lamp is allowed. It is not considered an auxiliary driving lamp and has no set mounting height by law. Therefore, it need not be inspected. If a vehicle is equipped with either fog lamps or auxiliary driving lamps, they shall be properly aimed. Fog lamps shall be mounted on the front of the vehicle at a height not more than 30 inches or less than 12 inches above the level surface on which the vehicle stands. Only two fog lamps are allowed by law. Auxiliary driving lamps shall be mounted on the front of the vehicle at a height not more than 42 inches or less than 16 inches above the level surface on which the vehicle stands. Only two auxiliary lamps are allowed by law. The mounting heights of auxiliary driving lamps do not apply to emergency vehicles. Whenever a motor vehicle equipped with required headlamps also is equipped with any auxiliary lamps or a spot lamp or any other lamp on its front, projecting a beam of intensity greater than 300 candlepower, not more than four of these lamps on the front of a vehicle may be lighted at any one time when on a highway.

E. SAE Identification Code (J759 SAE Handbook).

  (1) The following list is an identifying code for lights and signaling devices:

  (2) All equipment for testing headlamps shall comply with the Society of Automotive Engineers Recommended Practice for Headlamp Inspection Equipment.

#### Regulation .10 Electrical System.

*COMAR 11.14.09.10*

A. The electrical system includes the key/ignition switch, battery pack, power cables, wiring, and necessary connections to power the unit, lighting system, and accessories.

#### Regulation .11 Mirrors.

*COMAR 11.14.09.11*

A. Outside Mirrors. As required by 49 CFR §571.500, all vehicles shall be equipped with an exterior mirror mounted on the driver's side of the vehicle and either an exterior mirror mounted on the passenger's side of the vehicle or an interior mirror.

B. Inside Mirrors. All vehicles not equipped with an inside rearview mirror shall be equipped with an exterior mirror mounted on the passenger side. The inside rearview mirror shall be adjustable and equipped with clear view glass providing a clear stable reflected view 200 feet to the rear.

#### Regulation .12 Vehicle Glazing.

*COMAR 11.14.09.12*

A. As required under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, 49 CFR §571.500 “Low Speed Vehicles”, all low speed vehicles shall be equipped with a windshield that conforms to the federal motor vehicle safety standard on glazing materials, 49 CFR §571.205. Windshields of low speed vehicles must meet the ANSI/SAE Z26.1 —1996 specifications for either AS-1 or AS-4 glazing (incorporated by reference; see 49 CFR §571.5). Safety glazing is marked with the manufacturer's trademark and the letters “AS” followed by a number from 1 through 16B. Only AS-1 or AS-4 composition may be used in the windshield. Safety glazing for 1966 and later models also has a glass manufacturer's model number or a DOT (Department of Transportation) code number. Any questions regarding glazing shall be referred to the Automotive Safety Enforcement Division of the Department of State Police.

B. Definitions.

  (1) “Cloudiness” means any degree of visible discoloration or separation, except tinting that does not affect clear vision.

  (2) “Critical area” means the normal windshield wiper sweep, except the area obscured by hood, fenders, or rearview mirror.

  (3) “Non-critical area” means all windshield area outside the critical area.

  (4) “Normal windshield wiper sweep” means the area of windshield cleaned by the windshield wiper, excluding return position on both passenger's and driver's side.

C. Proper Marking. Inspect glass for proper markings.

D. Glazing Damage.

#### Regulation .13 Windshield Wipers and Washers.

*COMAR 11.14.09.13*

A. The windshield wipers shall be inspected for operation, control, condition of blades and arms, or any missing part. Vehicle manufacturers may design vehicle to be equipped with only one windshield wiper.

#### Regulation .14 Hood and Catches.

*COMAR 11.14.09.14*

A. Inspection shall consist of operation and presence of hinges, latches, release mechanisms, safety catches, or fasteners, if so equipped, insuring that the hood encloses the motor compartment.

#### Regulation .15 Doors, Handles, and Latches (If so equipped).

*COMAR 11.14.09.15*

A. Inspection of doors, handles, latches, and hinges applies to all vehicles originally manufactured with doors and all other vehicles that are equipped with doors.

#### Regulation .16 Floor and Trunk Pans.

*COMAR 11.14.09.16*

A. Floor and trunk pans shall be inspected for structural integrity and general condition.

#### Regulation .17 Speedometer and Odometer.

*COMAR 11.14.09.17*

A. Speedometer and odometer shall be inspected to determine if they are connected and speedometer is operable. The dial and speed increments of speedometer are legible, and calibrated in miles or kilometers.

#### Regulation .18 Driver's Seat and All Passenger Seating.

*COMAR 11.14.09.18*

A. The vehicle shall provide securely fastened seating arrangements, including a backrest for each intended occupant. The driver's seat shall be inspected for proper operation of the adjusting mechanism, along with any adjustable passenger seat if so equipped.

#### Regulation .19 Safety Belts.

*COMAR 11.14.09.19*

A. As required under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 49 CFR §571.500, Standard No. 500 Low Speed Vehicles, all low speed vehicles shall be equipped with a Type 1 or Type 2 seat belt assembly conforming to §571.209 of this part, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 209, Seat belt assemblies, installed at each designated seating position. Seat belt assembly means any strap, webbing, or similar device designed to secure a person in a motor vehicle in order to mitigate the results of an accident, including all necessary buckles and other fasteners, and all hardware designed for installing the seat belt assembly in a motor vehicle.

#### Regulation .20 Motor, Transaxle, and Transmission Mounts.

*COMAR 11.14.09.20*

A. Motor, transaxle, and transmission mounts include any mounting or securing device designed to hold the motor, transaxle, or transmission in a stable position.

#### Regulation .21 Directional Control.

*COMAR 11.14.09.21*

A. Inspect the directional control and reverse warning device.

#### Regulation .22 Constant Velocity Joints and Universal Joints.

*COMAR 11.14.09.22*

A. Constant velocity joints are generally found on drive axles. Universal joints are generally found on drive shafts and drive axles of vehicles.

#### Regulation .23 Modifications.

*COMAR 11.14.09.23*

A. Modifications—The controlling party, owner, person, or organization responsible for the conduct of the operator and maintenance of the low speed vehicle may not perform, or allow to be performed, any modifications or additions which affect capacity, safe operation, maximum speed, or any change not in accordance with the operator's manual without the manufacturer's prior written authorization. Where authorized modifications have been made, the controlling party shall ensure that capacity, operation, warning, and maintenance instruction plates, tags, and decals are changed accordingly. Modifications are described in SAE J2358, which is incorporated by reference in Regulation .02 of this chapter.

#### Regulation .24 Vehicle Identification Number.

*COMAR 11.14.09.24*

A. As required under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 49 CFR §571.500, Standard No. 500 Low Speed Vehicles, the manufacturers of all low speed vehicles shall legibly inscribe the vehicle identification number (VIN) that conforms to the requirements of 49 CFR Part 565 Vehicle Identification Number. Each VIN shall consist of 17 characters.

#### Regulation .25 Certification Label.

*COMAR 11.14.09.25*

A. The federal motor vehicle safety certification label shall be affixed to the vehicle and identify it as a Low Speed Vehicle for the regulations under this chapter to apply.

#### Regulation .26 Safety Signs and Low Speed Vehicle Disclosure Decal.

*COMAR 11.14.09.26*

A. Safety signs, when installed by the vehicle manufacturer, shall be permanently affixed to the vehicle and visible to the operator and occupants as designed by the vehicle manufacturer.

B. Low Speed Vehicle Disclosure Decal. A low speed vehicle disclosure decal shall be permanently affixed to the underside of the roof of the vehicle near the windshield on the driver's side. This decal shall be approximately 3 inches high by 5 inches wide and contain the disclosure statement information noted below.