The purpose of a roadworthiness test is to ensure that your vehicle is safe on the road and that you are as environmentally friendly as possible. Although you should have your vehicle checked regularly at authorised service stations, depending on its age, you can also prepare for a roadworthiness test. In this way, you can avoid having to undergo a re-inspection.

What are the most common mistakes that can lead to failing a roadworthiness test?

Vehicles that are referred for a roadworthiness test often have similar faults. For example, the most common faults are with the lights, suspension, tyres, power steering, brakes and windscreen. If any faults are found during the inspection which contravene the fixed standards, the problems must be rectified and the vehicle must be re-inspected. You have one month to undergo the re-inspection.

However, it is important to note that some minor defects are not automatically rejected at the roadworthiness test, but the driver is directed to have the defects rectified. This is often the case for older vehicles, where there are minor defects that do not need to be checked again. Conversely, larger and more dangerous faults mean that the vehicle is banned from normal driving and is obliged to take a direct route to a repairer.

What to check before the roadworthiness test?

In order to avoid a re-inspection, the driver can do some preparatory work. Many factors are checked visually at the roadworthiness test, which means that the driver can also have a look at the vehicle before the test. However, if there are any doubts about the condition of the vehicle, it is a good idea to take it to the nearest workshop or agency for an inspection.

How can you check the condition of your vehicle yourself?

First of all, start with the lights – are the brake lights, indicators, fog lights and number plate lights in good working order? In addition, check that the lights are not cracked and the lenses are not faded.

Pay attention to the vehicle’s suspension, bushings, shock absorber, ball joints, springs and rods. Are there no signs of wear on the suspension parts? Check tyres, tyre tread depth, possible cracks and valves. Be sure to check the tyre pressure and the presence of a spare tyre.