In New Zealand, a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) is essential for ensuring that your vehicle is roadworthy and safe to drive. A WOF inspection checks various safety and environmental components of your car to confirm that it meets required standards. However, many cars fail their WOF inspection for various reasons. If your vehicle has recently failed, don’t worry—Kiwi Auto Wreckers Wellington can help by offering cash for cars, including those that are no longer roadworthy.
In this blog, we will discuss the most common reasons why cars fail their Warrant of Fitness and what steps you can take to prevent failure in the future.
One of the most common reasons for a WOF failure is worn or damaged tyres. The tread on tyres must meet a certain depth, typically 1.5mm across the tyre’s circumference. Worn tyres compromise your car’s safety, affecting braking, handling, and traction, especially in wet conditions. If your tyres are visibly bald or showing signs of damage, it’s time to replace them.
Brakes are one of the most critical safety features in your vehicle. If the brake pads are worn out or there are issues with the brake fluid, your car will fail the WOF inspection. Brakes that don’t respond well or make strange noises are a clear indicator that they need attention. It’s essential to replace brake pads regularly and ensure that your brake system is functioning correctly to pass the inspection.
Faulty lights—headlights, taillights, indicators, or brake lights—are a common issue during WOF inspections. A non-functioning light can make your car unsafe for driving, particularly at night or in poor weather conditions. Additionally, electrical components such as the battery, wiring, or fuses should be in good condition to pass the inspection. A visit to an auto mechanic can help identify and fix electrical problems quickly.
A damaged or worn suspension system can cause serious issues with the handling and comfort of your vehicle. If your car is bouncing excessively, leaning to one side, or making strange noises when you drive over bumps, it might have suspension issues. These problems can cause your car to fail the WOF inspection and should be addressed immediately to avoid further damage.
Rust and corrosion are common issues in older vehicles, especially in parts of the car that are exposed to harsh weather conditions, such as the undercarriage. If rust is found in areas critical to the car’s structure—like the frame, chassis, or body panels—it can lead to a failed WOF inspection. While minor rust may not be a dealbreaker, significant corrosion can be a safety risk, making repairs necessary before passing the inspection.
The exhaust system plays a vital role in managing your vehicle’s emissions and ensuring that harmful gases are safely expelled from the engine. A leaking exhaust system can not only fail the WOF inspection but can also lead to increased emissions, which harms the environment. Regular checks on your exhaust system can prevent these issues.
Steering issues, such as loose steering, difficulty turning, or pulling to one side, are red flags that your car may fail the WOF inspection. Misalignment of the steering wheel and wheels can also impact the handling of your vehicle, making it unsafe to drive. Ensuring that your alignment and steering system are in good condition is essential for passing the WOF test.
Fluid leaks—whether it’s oil, coolant, brake fluid, or power steering fluid—can cause a WOF failure. Leaking fluids indicate that your car may have engine problems or damaged seals, and ignoring these leaks can lead to costly repairs down the line. Regularly check your fluid levels and look out for any puddles underneath your car, which could be signs of a leak.
The condition of your windshield and wipers can affect visibility and safety. If your windscreen wipers are broken, or the windscreen is cracked or damaged, your car may fail the WOF inspection. The inspector will check if your wipers are effective in clearing the windscreen, and any significant damage to the glass could lead to a failed test.
Problems with the engine or transmission could cause your car to fail the WOF inspection. These issues are often more complex to identify, but a properly functioning engine and transmission are essential for the overall performance of your vehicle. If your car is showing signs of performance problems, it is best to get it checked by a mechanic before the WOF inspection.
If your vehicle fails its WOF inspection, don’t panic! You have a few options. In many cases, you can fix the issues identified and return for a re-test. If your car is beyond repair or too expensive to fix, Kiwi Auto Wreckers Wellington offers cash for cars services. We buy vehicles in any condition, including those that have failed their WOF. We provide free car removal, so you can get rid of your old car quickly and receive instant payment.
Knowing the most common reasons cars fail their Warrant of Fitness can help you maintain your vehicle and avoid costly repairs. Regular maintenance and addressing issues early can ensure your car passes the inspection and stays safe on the road. However, if your car is no longer worth fixing, Kiwi Auto Wreckers Wellington offers a simple, fast solution with cash for cars and free vehicle removal.
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