If you are selling your vehicle, transferring a vehicle to a new owner, or re-registering a used vehicle you will require a Roadworthy Certificate.
A Roadworthy Certificate indicates that the vehicle is in a safe operational condition. It is not a certificate of overall reliability, so if you are planning on purchasing a used vehicle then it is advisable to have an independent comprehensive overall check on the vehicle, by a registered inspector or mechanic, prior to purchase. However the Roadworthy Certificate indicates that the basic factors for safety on the road are met.
A Roadworthy Certificate can only be issued by a licensed vehicle tester, so check that the garage where you take your car for the inspection is licensed to perform the checks before booking it in.
If you have looked after your vehicle with regular servicing, records and care, then your vehicle will most likely pass the inspection, however each state and territory in Australia has different vehicle inspection guidelines which must be strictly adhered to. So it is worth knowing what the guidelines are in your state before putting your vehicle in for a test – it will save you time and money overall.
Governor Automotive has listed 8 tips on getting a Roadworthy Certificate covering the most common points taken into account for an inspection.
1. All Lights and indicators
Make sure that all of the vehicle lights are clear and working. This includes headlights, brake lights, indicators, number plate lights and fog lights…all of the vehicle’s lights. The covers and lenses mustn’t be cracked or faded and all lights to be in good working order.
2. Suspension
Does your vehicle have any shudders or knocking sounds? Have these checked out before you book your car in for the Roadworthy Certificate. Ask your garage to check the vehicle’s suspension for wear and tear such as worn suspension brushes, shock absorbers, ball joints and springs.
A reputable garage will know your state or territory’s requirements to pass a Roadworthy inspection, so talk to them about what work may be needed on your car before booking in for the Roadworthy Certificate.
3. Tyres
Make sure that your vehicle’s tyres are in good condition – check the tread depth, it should be at least 1.5mm across the width of the tyres, and there should be no cracks in the tyres. Tyre pressure should be at the recommended gauge for the vehicle and valve caps should be in place. This also includes the spare!
4. Power steering
The power steering must be functioning well. Make sure that the fluid levels are correct and that there are no leaks. It is advisable to check all of the vehicle’s fluid levels – even if just to be on the safe side. Any leaks will alert of potential further problems.
5. Brakes
The brakes must be in full working order, including the hand brake. Brake pads must not be worn and check the rotors. There should be no steering wheel shaking when braking or no brake pedal pulsation either, and the hand brake must be able to hold the vehicle on an incline. All in all, if you have been having the car serviced regularly, these things should not be a problem.
6. Windscreen and Wipers
Your windscreen should be clean, clear and free of any scratches, cracks or chips. These days, windscreens are easily repaired, so there is no excuse for not having this done before the inspection. If you have tinting to your windscreen, make sure it complies with the acceptable % levels.
Wipers and washers should also be fully functional. Wiper blades must be operational, flexible and free of damage and the water spray working and directed appropriately onto the windscreen.
7. Oil Leaks
Your vehicle should be clear of any oil leaks. You may be aware of oil leaks by spills on the area that your car is parked, either in the driveway or garage. Regular servicing generally keeps oil leaks at bay, so if you notice any excess oil under your car, then have it fixed before taking it for the Roadworthy Certificate.
8. Other General Variables
There are a number of other hidden items which may be on the inspection list. These may include the airbags, or ABS lights; seatbelts and seats…by having all of these regularly checked, you should have no problem passing the inspection.
The general condition of the body, the chassis, the engine and exhaust are all taken into account, so by keeping your car in good condition you will have less worry and preparation required for a Roadworthy Certificate inspection.