NZ WoF Inspector flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

WoF inspection frequency

First inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months thereafter.

CoF inspection frequency

Generally every 6 months for heavy vehicles and specified vehicles, though some operators with approved inspection programmes may qualify for 12-month intervals.

Warrant validity meaning

A WoF or CoF confirms the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a guarantee of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection record contents

Must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

Failed inspection consequences

Defects are recorded and the vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination for repair; a new warrant requires rectification and re-inspection.

Core WoF/CoF areas

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both warrants.

Modified vehicle failure

A vehicle presented with a current warrant but modified outside permitted standards may be failed, with the modification recorded as a defect.

WoF versus CoF

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service, rental, and trade vehicles.

Tyre tread minimum depth

Cars and light vehicles require at least 1.5 mm tread across the full width; heavy vehicle tyres also require 1.5 mm with additional load and condition checks.

Tyre condition failures

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, and exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance assessment

Brakes are assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service and park brakes must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lamp colour requirements

All lamps must operate and show only prescribed colours: white or amber forward, red rearward; headlamps must be correctly aimed.

Windscreen damage rules

Windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belt requirements

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards for the vehicle class.

Emissions testing

Petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension checks

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Mass and dimension limits

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the registration or the applicable standard.

Inspector authorisation

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles in which they have a conflict of interest.

Equipment calibration validity

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

Organisation approval status

Inspecting organisations must hold current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Record retention duties

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit purposes.

Defect recording duty

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification and a new warrant is issued.

Warrant liability exposure

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Identity verification rule

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

Quality management obligation

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the transport authority.

Registration and licensing offence

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Licensing period

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic, usually 12 months, and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

RUC applicability

Road user charges apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC purchase units

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

Distance recorder requirement

The odometer or hubometer must be accurate and functional, and RUC licence labels must be displayed as required.

Registration cancellation

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Licensing fee components

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can prevent the licence being issued.