Registering your car in Australia isn’t just a paperwork formality, it's a crucial step in ensuring that your vehicle is roadworthy, safe, and compliant with state regulations. However, many vehicle owners are caught off guard when their car fails a registration inspection due to issues that could have been easily avoided.
If you're searching for a rego check near me or planning a registration inspection near me, it’s essential to be prepared. In this blog, we’ll walk you through seven of the most common reasons cars fail their inspections — and how you can fix them in advance.
Tyres are one of the most common reasons vehicles fail a registration inspection. Inspectors assess tread depth, tyre pressure, and overall condition. In Australia, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.5mm, but tyres often need replacing well before they reach this limit, especially if wear is uneven or if cracks appear in the rubber.
What to do:
Check all four tyres (and the spare) for wear, bulges, or visible damage. Use a tread depth gauge or the built-in tread wear indicators to assess if a replacement is necessary. It’s also a good idea to ensure that all tyres match in size and type mismatched tyres can raise a red flag during your inspection.
Brakes are vital to your vehicle's safety and will be thoroughly examined during your registration inspection. Common failures include worn brake pads, leaking brake fluid, or discs that are below the required thickness.
What to do:
If you notice squeaking, grinding, or reduced braking power, have your brakes checked before your inspection. A licensed mechanic can assess and replace worn components, ensuring your car passes without delay.
Your headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and indicators must all be operational. Even a single faulty bulb can result in a failed inspection.
What to do:
Ask a friend or family member to help you check every external light. Don’t forget the reverse light and number plate illumination,rego which are often overlooked. If a bulb is out, replace it with the correct type. If multiple lights are not working, it could indicate an electrical issue or a blown fuse.
A cracked or chipped windscreen can lead to failure, especially if the damage is in the driver's line of sight. Chips may worsen over time, turning into large cracks that obstruct visibility.
What to do:
Inspect the windscreen carefully. Small chips can often be repaired quickly and affordably. For larger cracks, a full replacement might be necessary. Ensure the wipers are functional and the washer fluid is topped up too — they’re part of the inspection!
Your exhaust system must be securely mounted, leak-free, and compliant with emission standards. If your vehicle emits excessive smoke or is noisier than usual, it might not pass a registration inspection near me.
What to do:
Listen for unusual exhaust noises and check for any visible smoke from the tailpipe. If your car smells of fuel or oil, or if you hear rattling under the chassis, have your exhaust system inspected and repaired.
Loose or worn suspension components, power steering leaks, or uneven steering can lead to a failed registration inspection. Inspectors will look for stability, responsiveness, and wear in shock absorbers and linkages.
What to do:
Test your vehicle for any rattling sounds or instability while turning. If your steering wheel feels loose, off-centre, or vibrates at certain speeds, have a mechanic evaluate your steering and suspension components.
Rust, dents, or structural damage especially near critical areas like the frame or undercarriage can be cause for concern. Anything that affects the integrity or safety of the vehicle may result in a fail.
What to do:
While cosmetic damage usually isn’t a problem, structural rust or panels that are coming loose must be addressed. Clean your vehicle thoroughly before the inspection so any issues are clearly visible, and make necessary repairs if you notice body damage affecting safety.
Even if your car is in top shape, forgetting the required documentation can lead to delays. Ensure you bring your driver’s licence, current registration papers, and any notices or reminders you’ve received.
If you’ve been Googling rego check near me, many authorised service centres and inspection stations now offer online booking and reminders, so you never miss a due date.
If you're searching for a registration inspection near me, look for an authorised inspection station (AIS) approved by your state transport authority. These centres are equipped to conduct safety checks and issue roadworthy certificates (also called pink slips or blue slips in NSW).
In many cases, you can combine your service and inspection appointment — saving you time and ensuring any issues found can be fixed on the spot.
If your car doesn’t pass, don’t panic. The inspector in Bondi Motor Works will provide a report outlining what needs fixing. You’ll usually have a grace period (e.g., 14 days in NSW) to address the problems and return for a reinspection at no extra cost.
To avoid this situation, search rego check near me early and prepare your vehicle thoroughly beforehand. The goal is not just passing the inspection but keeping your vehicle in safe, roadworthy condition all year round.
Car registration inspections are more than a box to tick they’re a vital safety check that benefits you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. By addressing these 7 common issues early, you’ll not only improve your chances of passing the registration inspection the first time, but you’ll also extend the life of your vehicle.
So, whether you're prepping for your first inspection or just typing "registration inspection near me" into your search bar, don’t leave it to the last minute. Be proactive, book early, and keep your car in top condition. Contact us now, Bondi Motor Works is always there to help you.
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