What Can Cause Your Car To Fail A Roadworthy Inspection?

Roadworthy inspections are required when buying and selling cars and their purpose is to ensure that the car is in safe working order. When your car passes a roadworthy inspection you will be issued with a pass certificate that will be valid for a couple of months. If your car fails, you will be issued with a report detailing why it's failed and you will have a couple of weeks to make the repairs or you will have to pay for a new inspection. Here's an overview of some of the common reasons cars fail roadworthy inspections:

Tyres

Your tyres will be closely inspected to check they meet the minimum legal tread depth. They will also be checked for any signs of damage, such as cracking and bulging. Tyres in poor condition can be dangerous, as they can cause stopping distances to increase and can put you at risk of a blowout when driving at high speeds. So, ensure you check your tyres before booking your car for an inspection.

Rust

Minor surface rust doesn't generally cause cars to fail a roadworthy inspection, as this can be sanded down and the area can be repainted to prevent further rusting. However, significant deep rust can degrade the structural integrity of your car and is the reason for your mechanic to issue a fail notice. If you have any areas of your vehicle that have penetrative rust have those sections replaced before scheduling an inspection.

Brakes

Faulty brakes put the driver and other road users at risk and increase stopping distances in all weather conditions. Brake checks form an integral part of a roadworthy inspection, and your mechanic will check all brake components, such as pads and discs, for signs of wear. If you're unsure how well your brakes are performing, you can book a brake check before scheduling a roadworthy inspection. Garages often offer brake checks free of charge and having one done will give you peace of mind before your car is inspected.

These are some of the common causes of failed roadworthy inspections, but it's worth keeping in mind that your entire car will be checked. Your mechanic will look for leaks, check your suspension, inspect your lights and windshield and check that any modifications you've carried out have been done legally. If you'd like more information on roadworthy inspections, have a chat with a mechanic in your area.