Dismay over WOF failures

The Motor Trade Association (MTA) says the state of thousands of vehicles on our roads is still a major concern – and will be for years to come.

Its warning comes as Waka Kotahi launches a public-relations campaign for its ambitious Road To Zero campaign.

The strategy adopts a long-term vision of no deaths or serious injuries on New Zealand’s roads by 2050. The government has set the specific interim target of 2030 to reduce deaths and serious injuries by 40 per cent compared to 2018 levels. 

However, the MTA says latest figures show 40 per cent of vehicles failed their warrants of fitness (WOFs) at the first inspection during 2021.

“That’s massive,” says Graeme Swan, sector manager for repairers. “It means thousands of our cars are not in a fit state to be on our roads at the time they go for their WOFs. And vehicles on our roads are getting older, not younger.”

The MTA supports the Road To Zero programme and acknowledges the reasons behind the current road toll are complex, but Swan, pictured, says the state of the fleet plays a part.”

“Vehicle-related factors contribute to around 10 per cent of the road toll,” he adds. “This needs to be part of the Road To Zero discussion.

“Even if the crash is caused by other factors, such as driver error, common sense tells you that if your tyres have good tread and your brakes are working properly, you may have a better chance of avoiding an accident.

“We encourage all drivers to keep their vehicle in a safe, roadworthy condition. Don’t delay getting it serviced or that unusual noise checked out. It could save you money in the long run or, more importantly, save a life.”

About 28 per cent of vehicles that failed initial inspections in 2021 did pass their WOFs on the second attempt, but the MTA says that doesn’t alter the fact they had been on the roads in an unsafe condition. Lights are the biggest reason a vehicle might fail its WOF, followed by tyre and chassis issues.