Inspection regime changing

New rules for warrant of fitness (WOF) and certificate of fitness (COF A) inspections will come into effect from Sunday, November 1.

The NZTA is reminding people about the changes to the vehicle inspection regime, which were announced by the government in April after public consultation late last year.

Officials say modern vehicles are generally safer and more reliable, so many models will need less frequent inspections under the new approach. 

The changes also introduce extra safety checks and higher penalties for driving an unsafe vehicle or a vehicle with an expired WOF.

From November 1:

• people who buy a new car will need to get their next WOF when the car is four years old.

• cars aged four to 14 years will need a WOF every two years

• cars over 14 years old will need a WOF each year

• motorcycles over four years old will need a WOF each year

• rental vehicles that require a COF A will need one every year.

The NZTA notes the shift to biennial inspections for cars between four and 14 years old will be introduced in phases, with the rule initially applying to vehicles first registered on or after November 1, 2019.

From November 1 next year, it will also cover cars first registered from November 1, 2013, to October 31, 2019.

The agency says current WOF and COF A expiry dates will not change, with the new inspection frequency applying after a vehicle is next checked.

Inspections will also now check warning lights that indicate a fault with advanced driver assistance systems, such as lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking. 

Any fault covered by the inspection requirements must be fixed before the vehicle is issued with a WOF or COF A.

Geoff Williamson, NZTA’s head of vehicle regulation, says road safety remains at the centre of the inspection system. 

“A WOF or COF confirms that a vehicle met the required safety standards when it was inspected,” he adds. 

“Vehicle owners are responsible for keeping their vehicle safe to drive at all times, including between inspections.

“Regular maintenance can stop small issues becoming serious safety problems. Check your tyres, lights, indicators, windscreen wipers and mirrors at least once a month and before a long trip. 

“You also need to check that your brakes are working well, and that rust isn’t affecting the safety of your vehicle. If you notice a problem, get it checked by a qualified mechanic.”

As part of the new rules, the infringement fee for a WOF expired by more than two months will increase from $200 to $350. 

For wheels or tyres that don’t meet safety requirements, the penalty will increase from $150 to $350. A court can impose a fine of up to $1,000 for unsafe wheels or tyres.

“Keeping your vehicle safe protects you, your passengers and everyone else on the road,” explains Williamson. 

“A current WOF doesn’t replace regular safety checks and servicing. Don’t wait until your next inspection to fix a safety issue.”

The NZTA plans to soon launch a campaign to help people understand how to carry out basic safety checks, with more information about these available at its check your car webpage.