A roadworthy certificate is required when a vehicle is being re-registered, sold, period inspection or has received a vehicle defect notice. It aims at ensuring all cars that are regularly driven are well-maintained. It stands as a testimony that the vehicle has undergone periodical checks. This makes this certificate a matter of tremendous importance. Especially if the vehicle is an old model a roadworthy certificate helps you maintain it effectively. A reputed and certified agency must be chosen in order to check and get the roadworthy certificate for the vehicle.
The need for the roadworthy certificate is to determine if the vehicle is fit to be driven. Inspection is done thoroughly to inspect the proper functioning, safety, and quality of the key components of the vehicle. These include checking of the following parts:
- Steering, braking systems, and the suspensions.
- Tires and wheels.
- The reflectors and headlights/lamps.
- Seat belts and the seats.
- The overall structure of the vehicle, especially the chassis and engine.
- Windows and windscreens, especially the front screen along with the washers and wipers.
It must be remembered that this check does not include mechanical checks that ascertain the performance of the air-conditioning, stereo system, and navigational devices. It is not always an indication of the overall condition of the vehicle. It just means the vehicle is fit to be on the road, the roadworthy certificate does not guarantee the comfort level you’re expected to enjoy.
How to obtain the Certificate?
VicRoads have set out standards which are mentioned in the VSI 26 and these guidelines have to be followed during the inspection of the vehicle if you wish to attain a roadworthy certificate. The primary concerns of these standards are to ensure that the vehicle is free from mechanical wears, deteriorations, and alterations that are not in compliance with the traffic guidelines. The directive issued by VicRoads as stated in the Regulation 220 clearly mentions that a thorough test must be carried by the tester before issuing the certificate and in case of any failure to clear the test; the owner will have 7 days to rectify the problem area in order to attain the roadworthy certificate.
Why do you need a Roadworthy Certificate?
Having your vehicle in compliance with the rules saves you from a lot of legal hassles. Apart from this, you can be rest assured that your vehicle will not put you through sudden unexpected brake failures or emergencies of the serious kind. A certificate also ensures the safety of the vehicle especially when you decide to sell the vehicle and transfer the ownership through re-registration. The validity of the certificate is 60 days but when you are selling your vehicle keep in mind that it should not be more than 30 days old from the date of issue.
How will you choose a Valid Tester?
A roadworthy certificate is crucial but so is the agency that gives you this certificate. A certificate will only be valid if the vehicle tester is in compliance with the following five criteria:
- The staffs have accredited training.
- A probity check
- Has a decent business structure
- Has suitable premises and upgraded equipment to perform the check
- Has licensing application.
Why should you choose an Agency for getting a Roadworthy Certificate?
A reputed agency allows you to acquire a roadworthy certificate very fast and gives you enough assistance as well. They will also help pass the inspection by rectifying issues or guiding you about them. A reputed agency will also save you from a really high cost of certification as they will only charge you the standard rates. The price depends on the age and overall condition of the vehicle and a reputed agency will have charts to show the price they are asking for. Also, an agency works in compliance with Australian Design Rules (ADR) and saves you the hassle.