A safety action undertaken to ensure that the vehicle is safe to be on roads is known as roadworthy. It is the roadworthy certificate that inspects the basic parts of the vehicle that are essential for driving safely. Though it not a comprehensive test of the vehicle, however, ensures that the automobile has met the minimum requirements of safety. This guarantees some safety to the driver, car passengers, and others on the road. It is mandatory for majority of vehicles to get their safety certificate, but is unaware about the right procedures.
Which Vehicles Need the Roadworthy Certificate?
A safety certificate is compulsory for:
- Motorcycles
- Cars
- Trailers
- Caravans
- Vehicles with 4500 kg GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass)
What will be tested in the Roadworthy Certificate Test?
When you apply to get the roadworthy certificate, your car has to be in an ideal condition. There will be certain parts that will be specifically looked at during the test. They are:
- Body rust: Rust is a sign of poor maintenance. Hence you need to see if there is any sign of rust that might put a negative impact during the inspection.
- Brakes: It goes without saying that all the essential working parts of the brakes have to be working efficiently. The parking brakes should be able to keep your car stationary on any type of up or down hill.
- Damages in the vehicle: If your car has been in any accident, then you need to get it repaired and serviced. When the major damages are covered, you will not have to worry about failing the test.
- Lights: The direction indicator, brake lights, warning indictors, headlights and taillights have to be properly fitted and in good working condition. Check them before you pass your car for the roadworthy inspection.
- Steering: When the steering is secure and mounted well, it will offer you a straight drive without deviating to the left or right. Power steering should be checked for oil leaks before you pass it for the roadworthy certificate.
- Wheels: If your vehicle has wheels then check if it has any dents on them. They should not be buckled or even out of balance. The spokes of the wheel should be well fitted and intact. Check that their lace and tension is adjusted correctly.
- Suspension: All the bushes, pivots, wheel bearings should be checked whether they are in good condition before the test. The suspension components should be steady and work efficiently. Additionally, check if the struts and shock absorbers are mounted in their place and do not have any leaks.
- Tyres: The tyres should not have any cracks. Any form of damage that would lead to accidents should be checked before you apply for the certification. Never send the vehicle for the roadworthy certificate test when it has temporary tyre fitted on it.
- Windscreen: The glass screen that enables the driver to see the road should never be altered. However, if you have made certain changes in it, then you need to see if it fits within the safety regulations. There should be no scratches on the screen and the wipers should be well fitted. Along with the windscreen, test the other windows as well.
If you own a used vehicle or are intending to buy one, you should request for a full mechanical inspection. Get the list of specific parts that will be tested. If there are any errors, ask the professionals to fix them. A well maintained and regularly serviced vehicle will not have to worry much while passing the vehicle for the roadworthy certificate.