Top Reasons Your Car Might Fail a Roadworthy Inspection in Sunshine Coast
Top Reasons Your Car Might Fail a Roadworthy Inspection in Sunshine Coast
Blog Article
If you're planning to sell your vehicle, re-register it, or simply want to ensure that it's roadworthy, you'll need a roadworthy certificate Sunshine Coast. This certificate confirms that your car meets the necessary safety standards and is fit for the road. However, many car owners find themselves facing unexpected failures during the inspection process. In this article, we’ll go over the most common reasons why your vehicle might fail a roadworthy inspection and what you can do to avoid it.
1. Worn-Out Tyres
One of the most frequent reasons for failing a roadworthy inspection is having tyres that are excessively worn out or damaged. Inspectors check:
- Tread depth (minimum legal depth is 1.5mm)
- Sidewall damage such as cracks or bulges
- Uneven wear patterns, which may indicate wheel alignment issues
How to Avoid It: Regularly check your tyres for wear and ensure they are inflated to the correct pressure. Replace tyres when they reach the minimum tread depth.
2. Faulty Brakes
Braking performance is crucial for safety. The inspector will examine:
- Brake pads and discs for wear
- Brake fluid levels
- Handbrake effectiveness
How to Avoid It: If you hear squeaking or grinding noises while braking, get your brakes checked immediately. Regular servicing helps maintain optimal braking performance.
3. Cracked or Chipped Windscreen
A damaged windscreen can impair visibility and compromise structural integrity. Common issues include:
- Cracks larger than a specific size
- Chips in the driver’s line of sight
- Worn-out wipers that don’t clean effectively
How to Avoid It: Repair small chips before they turn into major cracks. Replace wiper blades periodically to ensure clear visibility.
4. Faulty Lights and Indicators
All lights must be fully functional, including headlights, brake lights, reverse lights, and indicators. Common failures include:
- Blown bulbs
- Fogged or cracked light covers
- Malfunctioning wiring
How to Avoid It: Regularly check all lights before your inspection. Replace faulty bulbs and clean light covers for better visibility.
5. Suspension Issues
Your suspension system affects ride comfort and stability. Inspectors check for:
- Worn-out shock absorbers
- Damaged or leaking struts
- Uneven ride height
How to Avoid It: Pay attention to unusual noises or bumpy rides. If your car feels unstable, have a mechanic inspect your suspension.
6. Leaking Fluids
Fluid leaks can be a sign of serious mechanical problems. Common leaks that result in failure include:
- Engine oil
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
How to Avoid It: Check underneath your vehicle for any signs of leaks. Regular servicing helps catch leaks early before they become a major issue.
7. Exhaust System Defects
An inspector will check your exhaust system for:
- Excessive smoke
- Loud or rattling noises
- Leaks or rusted components
How to Avoid It: Ensure your exhaust system is in good condition by having it checked regularly. Excessive smoke could also indicate engine problems that need to be addressed.
8. Seatbelts and Safety Features
Seatbelts are essential for safety, and any issues with them can lead to a failed inspection. Issues include:
- Frayed or damaged seatbelts
- Faulty buckles
- Malfunctioning airbags
How to Avoid It: Ensure seatbelts retract properly and are free of damage. If your airbag warning light is on, have it checked by a professional.
9. Steering Problems
A faulty steering system can make driving unsafe. Common failures include:
- Excessive play in the steering wheel
- Leaking power steering fluid
- Worn-out steering components
How to Avoid It: If your steering feels loose or makes noises, get it checked immediately. Regular maintenance helps keep your steering system in good shape.
10. Rust and Structural Damage
Rust and corrosion can compromise the integrity of your vehicle, especially in key structural areas like the chassis. Inspectors look for:
- Rust holes in critical areas
- Structural weakness
- Corroded body panels
How to Avoid It: Address rust early by treating minor spots before they spread. Keeping your vehicle clean and dry can help prevent corrosion.
11. Number Plates and Vehicle Identification
Your vehicle’s number plates and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) must be clearly visible and match the registration details. Common reasons for failure include:
- Illegible or damaged number plates
- Mismatched VIN numbers
How to Avoid It: Ensure your number plates are clean, clearly visible, and properly secured. Check that your VIN matches your registration documents.
Conclusion
A roadworthy certificate Sunshine Coast is essential to ensure your vehicle is safe for the road. Many of the common reasons for failure can be avoided with regular maintenance and proactive inspections. Before booking a roadworthy inspection, go through this checklist and address any potential issues.
For a hassle-free and convenient inspection, Totally Mobile Roadworthy offers mobile roadworthy certificate services across the Sunshine Coast. Our expert inspectors come to your location, saving you time and effort. Book an appointment today to get your vehicle certified without the stress! Report this page