Driving a van or heavy commercial vehicle for hours can be exhausting, especially if you struggle with mobility issues, weak limbs, or any disability. To reduce strain and improve control over the vehicle, many drivers are turning to steering wheel knobs, also known as spinner knobs.

A steering wheel knob is a small device that you can fit on your steering wheel. It allows you to turn the steering wheel 360 degrees single-handedly without straining your muscles.  

But before modifying your steering system, you might wonder, “Are steering wheel knobs illegal on commercial vehicles?” Well, there is no straight answer. While the UK law doesn’t explicitly say it is illegal, you have to adhere to some safety regulations to be able to use it without collecting tickets.

The Legality of Steering Wheel Spinner Knobs in the UK

General Overview

In the United Kingdom, the use of steering wheel spinner knobs is generally permitted, especially if you have a disability. According to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, your modification should not compromise the safe operation of the steering system or reduce the vehicle’s control.

So there is no blanket ban on these devices. The primary concern for regulatory bodies like the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is road safety and your ability to maintain full control of your vehicle at all times.

Specifics for Vans and Commercial Vehicles

Vans and commercial vehicles are heavier than normal cars on the road. Therefore, commercial vehicles, including Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), must undergo a stricter road safety check. Any accident involving commercial vehicles can be fatal. This year, in April, a man and a little girl on a horse-drawn cart died after being struck by a truck from behind, as reported by Sky News.

Even if the UK regulations allow you to use a spinner knob, your employer might prohibit or impose stricter policies. Some employers with fleet vehicles have internal policies against spinner knobs due to perceived safety risks, insurance implications, or standardisation within their fleet. So, before adding a steering wheel knob, it is best to consult with your employer.

Steering Wheel Spinner Knobs and the MOT Test (Class 4 to 7)

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) test is a critical annual inspection to ensure vehicles meet roadworthiness standards.

According to the MOT, vans and commercial vehicles up to 3,000kg require a Class 4 MOT test. For good vehicles over 3,000kg and up to and including 3,500kg, you will need to clear a Class 7 MOT test. But the question is, will you clear the MOT test with a steering wheel knob?

What the MOT Inspects

The MOT inspection guide outlines specific criteria for various vehicle components, including the steering system. The inspection focuses on the function and security of the steering system itself, rather than individual accessories clamped to the steering. The key inspection areas include:

• Steering wheel security: Ensuring the wheel is firmly attached and has no excessive play.
• Steering wheel condition: Checking for cracks, breaks, or deformations that could affect the safety or control of the vehicle.
• Steering column: Verifying it is secure, free from excessive wear, and operating correctly.
• Steering lock: Ensuring it operates without jamming.

However, the MOT test does not specifically inspect for the presence of accessories like spinner knobs. Therefore, a properly installed spinner knob, which is secure and does not obstruct the steering mechanism or any controls, will not, on its own, cause you to fail the MOT test.

Common MOT Faults or Deficiencies

Since May 2018, MOT deficiencies have been categorised as Minor, Major, or Dangerous. A spinner knob falls under a broader steering system inspection.

• No deficiency (pass): A secure, properly installed spinner knob will not pose a threat to road safety, so it will pass without issue.
• Minor (advisory): If your spinner knob is a bit loose and moves freely on the rim, it can potentially affect your steering control. The tester will advise you to fix it, but you will pass the test.
• Major (fail): If a spinner knob physically obstructs the steering mechanism or prevents full lock-to-lock rotation, it can impair the steering system’s function, putting the safety of others at risk. This can only happen if you incorrectly install the steering wheel knob, which will cause you to fail the test.
• Dangerous (fail): If the tester finds your steering system to have a direct and immediate risk to road safety, they will flag it as dangerous and fail you.

Again, MOT testers will assess the steering system as a whole, where a steering wheel knob is just a small part of it. Some view it as a modification, while others see it as a removable accessory that improves steering control and reduces strain on your forearms.

Is a Steering Wheel Knob a Modification?

There is a whole lot of confusion around whether a spinner knob is a modification for MOT purposes. The MOT test does not have a general modifications category for steering wheel knobs.

According to MOT standards, any structural alteration to your vehicle from its factory condition is a modification. Did it have the spinner knob when you got the vehicle from the factory? But you can use the same logic to question seat covers and a phone mount in your van.

So, with all the confusion about whether a steering wheel knob falls under the modification category, what we know for sure is that it is legal to use, provided it is securely and safely installed.

Employer Policies and Fleet Vehicles

While legally you can use the steering wheel knob in the UK, you still have to follow your employer’s policies. Many companies operating fleets of vans or HGVs implement strict rules on vehicle modifications and accessories to ensure consistency, minimise risk, and comply with their insurance agreements.

If your employer views a spinner knob as a potential distraction or a device that could interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle, especially in emergency situations, they may not allow you to use it. However, if you are struggling with mobility issues or have a disability, you can have your GB or healthcare professional prescribe the steering wheel knob.

In that case, your employer won’t be able to refuse to allow you to use a spinner knob. Under the Equality Act 2010, your employer cannot discriminate against you based on your disability.  

Conclusion

All in all, steering wheel spinner knobs are generally legal for vans and commercial vehicles in the UK, given that they are securely fitted and do not impede the safe operation of the vehicle. Your MOT tester will not specifically assess it in isolation, so a properly installed knob will not cause a failure.

However, you must be mindful of your employer’s policies, as they might impose restrictions on their fleet vehicles. In case you have a spinner knob as a prescribed disability aid, you don’t have to worry. The laws in the UK and MOT procedures accommodate drivers with disabilities, recognising their importance for inclusive mobility.