Road worthiness test regulations vary between states and territories in Australia – but if your car had to have a test today, would it pass?
Even though vehicle inspections vary across the country and motorists need to be aware of any specific regulations relevant to their location, the examiners are generally all looking for the same things when they do their checks. Basically, the vehicle has to comply with standards that make it safe for normal road use and which protect unwary buyers from buying vehicles that may not be safe to drive.
The UK has a totally different approach, and requires every vehicle to undergo an annual Ministry of Transport (MOT) test to ensure it meets road safety and environmental standards.
These MOT tests are done at licensed examination centres which employ around 53 000 testers to check vehicles for compliance on aspects of roadworthiness, safety and exhaust emissions. The test involves dozens of different checks including brakes, tyres, mirrors, seatbelts, windscreen wipers and exhaust systems.
Roadworthy tests in Australia involve similar inspections but for more detailed information, you should check with your state’s Department of Transport or organisations like the RAC which conduct vehicle inspections.
So how would your vehicle hold up if it were to be scrutinised by an inspector with an eye for detail and an in-depth knowledge of the law?
Well, if your car has been a bit neglected and hasn’t been as well cared for as it should have been, then it’s probably going to meet the same fate as many vehicles in the UK.
Have a look at these top five reasons that cars fail their MOT roadworthiness tests:
- Non-functioning lights and/or indicators
- Worn or damaged tyres
- Malfunctioning brakes
- Inefficient windscreen wipers and washers
- Suspension problems
You should always keep an eye on your vehicle to make sure the key components are in good working order.
For example, do a regular check of your exterior lights (front and back) and your indicator to make sure there’s nothing faulty, loose or damaged. Your brake lights are another vital part and need to be in perfect working order otherwise you’re putting yourself and road users at risk.
Inefficient tyres accounted for over seven per cent of MOT failures in 2014/15, but don’t wait until an inspection to check your tyres. They are a critical component for optimum performance and safety and you should regularly check the pressure, look for signs of damage and make sure the tread is within legal limits.
Your car windscreen is another key component which should be in perfect condition ALL the time. Over 6.5% of cars failed their MOT because the driver’s view of the road was unclear – so clean your windscreen regularly and check for any chips or cracks.
Most chips and cracks can be repaired quickly and easily to the same strength as the original glass for a fraction of the cost of a windscreen replacement, but the trick is to get in early before the damage escalates.
If you’ve got a damaged windscreen or need a windscreen replacement in Perth, get in touch with Autoscreens on 0400 200 086. They are professional, mobile, experienced and well-priced, so don’t jeopardise your roadworthy test, incur unnecessary costs or put yourself or others at risk because of a damaged windscreen.
Jason Squire has been in the automotive industry in the UK and Australia for over 25 years and started his own windscreen repair and replacement business, Autoscreens, in 2010.
Jason’s extensive professional qualifications and his broad industry experience paired with his military background means he brings an extraordinary level of skill, expertise and meticulous attention to detail to every aspect of his business.
Prior to starting Autoscreens, Jason worked for several leading international windscreen companies as well as spending a number of years in the armed forces. He has accumulated numerous professional qualifications, industry accolades and leadership awards, and is a highly respected volunteer in his local community.
Under his expert stewardship, Autoscreens has grown into one of the leading windscreen companies in Perth. Despite its success, he has ensured that the family-owned and managed company remains true to its founding values of integrity, quality and unsurpassed customer service.
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