MGA Research Corporation provides comprehensive FMVSS 100 series testing support automotive OEMs and manufacturers seeking U.S. market approval. Through accredited laboratory testing, technical expertise, and decades of experience working with NHTSA, MGA delivers accurate evaluations of vehicle crash avoidance performance with confidence and efficiency.

Understanding FMVSS and the 100 Series

The FMVSS 100 series establishes crash-avoidance standards for vehicles sold in the United States, focusing on components such as lighting, braking, and visibility systems. These standards are developed and enforced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), ensuring that vehicles meet minimum safety requirements to reduce accidents and fatalities. FMVSS regulations are codified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 571, which provides a structured and legally binding framework for compliance. 

For vehicle manufacturers and OEMs, adherence to these standards is critical not only for regulatory compliance but also for market access, consumer trust, and liability mitigation. Failure to meet FMVSS requirements can result in penalties, recalls, and reputational damage.

Crash Avoidance vs. Crashworthiness

The FMVSS 100 series focuses on crash avoidance, ensuring vehicles are equipped with systems that help prevent accidents in the first place. In contrast, the FMVSS 200 series addresses crashworthiness, which evaluates a vehicle’s ability to protect occupants during a collision, including structural integrity, airbags, seat belts, and energy-absorbing materials. 

Together, these two sets of standards form a complementary safety framework: crash avoidance reduces the likelihood of an accident, while crashworthiness minimizes injury severity if a crash occurs. For manufacturers and OEMs, integrating both aspects are essential to meet regulatory requirements, achieve high safety ratings, and deliver comprehensive protection for drivers and passengers.

Evolution of FMVSS 100 Standards

With new and creative developments in the automotive world, there is always something to consider when designing vehicles. The rapid evolution of electric vehicles, advanced vehicle systems, and integrated software has introduced new challenges and opportunities for manufacturers. Modern vehicle design must account for complex electronic architectures, enhanced connectivity, and safety standards. 

Additionally, as the automotive industry moves toward ADS-equipped vehicles, new testing protocols will be adopted, including FMVSS 127. Future considerations for these designs include ensuring reliability in extreme climates, wireless compatibility, and integration of emerging technologies, while also considering the regulations.

Core FMVSS 100 Series Standards and Testing

FMVSS 101 - Controls and Displays

Specifies location, identification, color, and illumination of vehicle controls, telltales, and indicators. Ensures driver attention is maintained and distractions minimized. Testing can be performed at MGA’s Wisconsin and Michigan locations and requires a full vehicle.

FMVSS 102 - Transmission Systems

Specifies transmission shift sequences, starter interlock functions, and braking effects of automatic transmissions. Testing is performed at MGA Wisconsin and requires a full vehicle.

FMVSS 103 – Windshield Defog/Defrost and FMVSS 104 – Windshield Wiping/Washing

Evaluates performance of defrost, defog, and windshield wiping systems. Testing can be performed at MGA Michigan and Wisconsin locations with a full vehicle.

FMVSS 111 - Rear Visibility

Covers side mirrors, rearview mirrors, and rear-view camera systems. Testing is conducted at MGA Wisconsin with full vehicle access.

MGA can perform this testing for multipurpose passenger vehicles, trucks, and buses

FMVSS 113 – Hood Latch System

Ensures hood latches prevent obstruction of driver vision if one latch fails. Testing can be performed at MGA Wisconsin and Michigan with full vehicle and hood system access.

FMVSS 114 - Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention

Reduces incidents from theft or accidental rollaway. Testing is performed at MGA Wisconsin and requires full vehicle powertrain or full vehicle.

FMVSS 118 – Power-Operated Window, Partition, and Roof Panel Systems

Minimizes injury from accidental operation of Windows, Partitions, or Roof Panels. Testing can be performed at MGA Wisconsin or Michigan. 

For Section 5 of the FMVSS 118 standard MGA uses a model 10293 pinch force sensor for measuring window forces.

FMVSS 124 - Accelerator Control Systems

Ensures throttle returns to idle when driver removes actuating force or system disconnect occurs. Testing can be performed at MGA Wisconsin or Michigan with drive-in chambers for temperature-specific testing.

Special Testing Considerations: Electric Vehicle Adaptations

When designing electric vehicles, there are many factors to consider under the FMVSS 100 series. For these vehicles, there are new designs, such as quieter driving at lower speeds, high-voltage battery state-of-charge, regenerative braking, various keyless entry options, and parking pawls for the “park” function. All new designs must still comply with FMVSS standards.

Testing Procedures and Compliance

Laboratory Requirements

MGA is fully equipped to perform FMVSS 100 series tests with precision and reliability. Our testing equipment undergoes annual calibration to ensure accuracy and compliance with industry standards. To maintain optimal testing conditions, MGA utilizes dedicated temperature-control units in standard testing areas, as well as advanced climate chambers capable of withstanding the extreme temperatures required for both hot and cold testing. These resources allow us to deliver consistently high-quality results across a wide range of environmental conditions and provide our customers with reliable, safe, and superior testing every time.

Common Compliance Challenges

When reviewing past recalls and failures within the FMVSS 100 series, it’s clear that new challenges continue to emerge. One of the most significant developments in recent years is the integration of advanced technologies and software into vehicles. Modern vehicles increasingly rely on these systems to perform a wide range of functions, and the FMVSS 100 series is no exception. As a result, manufacturers must carefully consider these innovations during the design process. Creativity should not be constrained, but rather, it should drive solutions that ensure safety, reliability, and compliance in an era of rapid technological advancement.

MGA's FMVSS 100 Testing Capabilities

Testing Locations and Facilities

MGA’s testing capabilities are supported by specialized equipment, experienced engineers, and a long history of regulatory testing expertise. With more than 30 years of NHTSA testing experience, MGA brings deep understanding of FMVSS requirements, test interpretation, and documentation expectations.

• FMVSS 101 – Multiple locations
•  FMVSS 102 – MGA WI
• FMVSS 103/104 – MGA MI and WI
• FMVSS 111 – MGA WI (reflectance testing not offered at this time)
• FMVSS 114 – MGA WI
•  FMVSS 118 – MGA WI
•  FMVSS 124 – MGA WI and MI

MGA has specialized equipment required to conduct tests per the test procedures. 

Test with MGA Today

The FMVSS 100 series encompasses critical systems designed to prevent vehicle crashes, forming the foundation of automotive safety standards. These regulations play an essential role in guiding the development and engineering of vehicles to ensure the highest level of protection for everyday consumers.

At MGA, we are committed to supporting automotive manufacturers in achieving their safety objectives. From concept through development, our team provides expertise and solutions to help you meet regulatory requirements and deliver safe, reliable vehicles.

Contact us today to discuss your FMVSS 100 series testing needs and explore how MGA can partner with you to advance automotive safety.

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