At Rodney Auto Centre, we understand that getting your vehicle through its Warrant of Fitness (WOF) check can be a stressful experience.
To help you prepare and avoid any common failures, we’ve put together an overview of the most frequent issues that arise during a WOF check, as well as tips on how to prevent them. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of passing the WOF test on the first try and save yourself time and money in the process.
Tyres
According to the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), the minimum legal tread depth for car tyres is 1.5mm. It’s essential to check your tyre tread depth regularly and replace them if they’re worn below the legal limit.
In addition, to tread depth, it’s also necessary to check that your tyres are in good condition, free of cuts, bulges, and other signs of damage. The NZTA recommends checking your tyres at least once a month and before any long journeys. If you notice any issues with your tyres, it’s important to get them checked and, if necessary, replaced as soon as possible.
Brakes
Another common cause of WOF failure is brake issues. To avoid this, keep your brake system in good working order by regularly checking the pads for wear and replacing them when they’re worn down to the minimum thickness. According to the NZ Transport Agency, the minimum thickness for brake pads is 3mm.
It’s also vital to check the brake fluid level and ensure it’s at the correct level. If the brake fluid is low, it could indicate a leak or other issue with the brake system, which should be addressed as soon as possible. It’s also important to have the brake system checked and regularly serviced to ensure it’s in good working order.
Lights and Reflectors
Ensuring that all lights and reflectors on your vehicle are working is crucial to passing the WOF check. This includes the headlights, taillights, brake lights, indicator lights, and license plate lights. It’s critical to check all of these lights regularly and replace any bulbs that are not working. Also, ensure that the reflectors on the vehicle are clean and not obscured by dirt or debris.
Suspension and Steering
Maintaining your vehicle’s suspension and steering systems is essential to ensure that they are in good working order to pass the WOF check. This includes checking for any wear or damage, such as leaks, worn bushings, or loose components. You’ll also want your steering to be correctly aligned and the vehicle tracks straight when driving on a flat surface.
According to the NZ Transport Agency, any vehicle with a steering or suspension problem that affects its handling or stability or causes excessive wear on its tyres will fail its WOF. This is why it’s essential to have your suspension and steering systems inspected and serviced regularly by a qualified mechanic.
Conclusion
Following these guidelines and regularly maintaining your vehicle can increase your chances of passing the WOF test on the first try. At Rodney Auto Centre, we’re committed to giving our customers the highest level of experience, service, and expertise to ensure that their vehicles pass the WOF check.
For questions and other concerns about your vehicle’s WOF, you can always visit or contact us here.
Don’t forget that the Warrant of Fitness is not just a legal requirement, but it’s also crucial for your own safety, the safety of other road users, and the environment. By keeping your vehicle in good working order, you’re helping protect yourself and others and contributing to a cleaner, safer and more sustainable community.
So be proactive, take care of your vehicle, and avoid common Warrant of Fitness failures with Rodney Auto Centre.
