Brake testing is a critical part of vehicle safety and compliance in New Zealand. Roller brake testers (RBTs) are the gold standard — but what happens when an RBT is unavailable? The answer is the BrakeCheck Decelerometer: a portable, self-contained device designed to keep workshops compliant and operational.
Why a Decelerometer is Required in NZ
According to the New Zealand Heavy Vehicle Brake Test Protocol, all approved entry certification and in-service CoF B inspection sites must have access to an approved decelerometer.
Decelerometers may be used for compliance brake testing in certain circumstances, including:
- When the roller brake tester (RBT) has a breakdown
- During urgent repairs
- While an RBT calibration is being undertaken
- When an RBT is unsuitable for a specific vehicle
- For some special vehicles, as outlined in Waka Kotahi’s guidelines
The use of a decelerometer during the circumstances mentioned above must be approved by Waka Kotahi Safer Vehicles regional managers. In the case of an emergency breakdown, testing can begin immediately for up to 24 hours, with approval required for continued use.
This makes the BrakeCheck Decelerometer an essential backup: it ensures workshops are equipped to continue inspections legally, without disruption.
How a Decelerometer Test Works
Using a decelerometer involves positioning the device within the vehicle and carrying out a controlled brake test. Key requirements from the NZ protocol include:
- Testing on a hard, level surface free from debris
- Accelerating to 30 km/h, then applying the brakes progressively without locking wheels
- Displaying at least 0.5 g (50% efficiency) deceleration rate with no excessive imbalance for the service brake
- Displaying at least 0.2 g (20% efficiency) deceleration rate for the park brake test
- Recording the results on the inspection sheet and attaching the decelerometer printout (hard copy or electronic)
Trailers or combinations are not recommended for decelerometer testing, and alternative roller brake testers (RBTs) should be considered where possible.
The Role of the BrakeCheck Decelerometer
The BrakeCheck decelerometer from Ryme Worldwide is purpose-built for this compliance environment. As a battery-powered, portable unit, it provides:
- Quick setup and use – no cables, minimal training required
- Accurate reporting – results can be printed or saved electronically
- Reliability – trusted performance when your roller brake tester (RBT) is unavailable
- Compliance assurance – designed to meet Waka Kotahi requirements
It is not intended to replace RBTs for daily testing but instead serves as a compliance-ready backup tool that keeps inspections on track during downtime or special cases.
Supplied in New Zealand by EquipSpecs
As the authorised supplier of Ryme Worldwide BrakeCheck decelerometers in New Zealand, EquipSpecs provides workshops with the equipment they need to remain compliant and operational.
Whether you’re setting up a new site or looking to update your backup testing tools, EquipSpecs can ensure you have the right solution, ready when it matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions: BrakeCheck Decelerometer
A BrakeCheck decelerometer is a portable, self-contained device that measures vehicle braking efficiency by recording deceleration. It is primarily used as a backup to roller brake testers, ensuring workshops can continue COF inspections when a roller brake tester is unavailable.
During a decelerometer test, the device is positioned in the vehicle, and a controlled braking procedure is carried out according to NZ protocols.
Brake testing is essential for vehicle safety and COF compliance. While roller brake testers (RBTs) are the gold standard, the BrakeCheck decelerometer provides a portable, NZTA-approved backup. It allows workshops to continue COF inspections temporarily when an RBT is unsuitable, inoperative, or undergoing maintenance.
No. Decelerometer tests are suitable for most single-unit commercial and passenger vehicles, but not all combinations or trailers.
The main advantage is continuity. A decelerometer allows workshops to legally continue COF inspections if a roller brake tester is unavailable. It is portable, quick to use, and ensures compliance during emergencies or maintenance periods, keeping operations running smoothly.
The BrakeCheck decelerometer is more than just a tool — it’s a safeguard for workshop compliance in New Zealand. Required by regulation, and indispensable when roller brake testers (RBTs) are unavailable, it provides an easy-to-use, portable solution that keeps workshops moving and vehicles safe.
Contact EquipSpecs today to learn more about the Ryme Worldwide BrakeCheck decelerometer and how it can support compliance in your workshop.
sales@equipspecs.co.nz | (+64) 21 477 646
