What a warrant inspection covers
The WoF inspection is a general safety check. The aspects checked are set out in our Vehicle inspection requirements manual (VIRM) and include:
- tyre condition (including tread depth)
- brake operation
- structural condition (rust is not allowed in certain areas)
- lights
- glazing (is your windscreen safe?)
- windscreen washers and wipers
- doors (do they open and close safely?)
- safety belts (must not be damaged or overly faded; buckles must work properly)
- airbags (if fitted)
- speedometer (must be working)
- steering and suspension (must be safe and secure)
- exhaust (there must be no leaks and the exhaust must not be smoky or louder than the original exhaust system)
- fuel system (there must be no leaks).
If you’ve modified your car, motorcycle, van or other light vehicle you may need low volume vehicle certification. Find out if you’ll need a certificate plate and how to get one.
What a warrant is not
A WoF is not a pre-purchase inspection. It doesn’t include many areas of a vehicle’s condition. For example it doesn’t check:
- engine, clutch, gearbox and differential
- lubricant levels and condition
- brake pad thickness or life expectancy
- paint work condition and rust in non-structural areas.
To book your car in for a warrant click here
