A current Warrant of Fitness (WOF) is legally required to drive on New Zealand roads.
Yet every year, thousands of vehicles fail their inspection for surprisingly simple reasons.
Here are the 10 most common WOF fail points—and what you can do to stay safe, legal, and avoid costly rechecks.

1. Tyre Tread Below 1.5mm

• Why it fails: NZ law requires at least 1.5mm of tread depth across the entire tyre.

• How to avoid: Use a tread gauge or the built-in tyre wear indicators. Replace tyres before they reach the legal minimum.

2. Brake Pad or Disc Wear

• Why it fails: Worn pads or warped discs reduce stopping power.

• Prevention: Have brakes visually inspected at every service and replace pads before they reach the wear limit.

3. Faulty Lights or Indicators

• Why it fails: Burnt-out headlights, brake lights, or indicators are an instant fail.

• Prevention: Check all lights monthly, including the small licence-plate bulbs.

4. Cracked or Chipped Windscreen

• Why it fails: Cracks or chips in the driver’s field of vision compromise safety.

• Prevention: Repair chips early; small repairs cost far less than a full windscreen replacement.

5. Worn Wiper Blades

• Why it fails: Streaking or ineffective wipers reduce visibility in NZ’s sudden rain.

• Prevention: Replace blades at least once a year or sooner if they leave streaks.

6. Suspension or Shock Absorber Problems

• Why it fails: Leaking shocks or worn suspension components affect handling and braking distance.

• Prevention: Have shocks and bushes inspected during regular servicing.

7. Loose or Damaged Steering Components

• Why it fails: Play in the steering rack or worn CV boots can lead to unsafe handling.

• Prevention: Annual inspections catch wear before expensive repairs are needed.

8. Exhaust Leaks or Excessive Noise

• Why it fails: Holes or leaks can allow fumes to enter the cabin.

• Prevention: Listen for unusual exhaust noises and have leaks sealed promptly.

9. Battery or Electrical Issues

• Why it fails: Weak batteries can affect starting and headlight brightness.

• Prevention: Test the battery during regular services—many failures are preventable with an inexpensive replacement.

10. Rust or Structural Damage

• Why it fails: Corrosion in key structural areas weakens the vehicle’s safety.

• Prevention: Wash the underbody regularly, especially if driving near the coast or on salted winter roads.

MIG CARS Service Advantage

At MIG CARS, our Premium Service Package includes inspections for many of these fail points:

By catching issues early, our team helps you pass your WOF the first time and avoid costly repairs.