Ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy is essential for your safety and that of other road users. Failing a roadworthy inspection can be frustrating and costly. To help you avoid this, we’ve compiled a list of common reasons why cars fail these inspections in Australia.
What Makes a Car Not Roadworthy?
A car is deemed not roadworthy when it doesn’t meet the safety standards set by authorities. Common issues include:
- Brake System Problems: Worn or damaged brake pads, brake fluid leaks, or faulty brake lights can cause a vehicle to fail a roadworthy inspection. Regular maintenance of the brake system is crucial. For more details on what the inspection covers, check out What Does the Certificate of Roadworthiness Inspection Cover?
- Tyre Wear: Insufficient tread depth or uneven wear can make your tyres unsafe. Inspect your tyres regularly to ensure they meet the required standards.
- Suspension and Steering Issues: Worn shock absorbers or problems with the suspension system can affect vehicle handling, making it unsafe on the road.
- Lights and Signals: Broken or non-functioning headlights, brake lights, or indicators can lead to inspection failures.
- Windshield Damage: Cracked or chipped windshields can obstruct the driver’s view and are a common reason for failing an inspection.
- Exhaust System Faults: Leaks or excessive noise from the exhaust system can also cause a vehicle to fail.
What Makes You Fail Roadworthy?
Common reasons for failing include:
- Faulty Brakes and Lights
- Tyre Issues
- Steering and Suspension Problems
- Exhaust and Emission Faults
Five Things to Check to Ensure Your Vehicle Is Roadworthy
- Brakes: Check brake pads, fluid levels, and brake lights.
- Tyres: Ensure proper tread depth and no visible damage.
- Lights: Test all lights and indicators for functionality.
- Suspension and Steering: Look for signs of wear or damage.
- Windshield and Wipers: Inspect for cracks and ensure wipers are working.
Regularly checking these components can help you pass a roadworthy inspection with ease. To understand how long a roadworthy certificate remains valid after passing the inspection, you might find How Long Is a Roadworthy Valid For? helpful.
What Happens If My Car Fails a Roadworthy?
If your car fails a roadworthy inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the issues. You typically have 14 days to fix the problems and have your vehicle re-inspected. Regular maintenance can help prevent failures and keep your car safe on the road.
Also, if you’re planning to sell your car in Queensland, knowing whether you need a roadworthy certificate is essential. Learn more at Do You Need a Roadworthy to Sell a Car in QLD?.
To sum up, being proactive with vehicle maintenance can save you time and money. Regular checks on critical components like the brake system, tyres, and lights can help you pass a roadworthy inspection without any hassles.
If you’re looking to ensure your vehicle passes the roadworthy inspection without a hitch, Mr Roadworthy is here to help. We offer mobile safety certificates in Queensland, servicing Brisbane, Gold Coast, Logan, Ipswich, Redcliffe, and surrounding areas. As a Queensland Government-approved inspection station, we provide high-quality, friendly service at a location convenient for you.Whether you need a safety certificate, roadworthy certificate, or gas certificate, our experienced team will assist you every step of the way. Don’t leave it to chance—get your vehicle inspected by professionals who care about your safety and peace of mind.
