Reasons not to leave your WOF to the last minute
Although car maintenance can feel tedious and a chore, it’s handy to remember it’s for your safety. New Zealand roads can be hairy at the best of times, so it’s paramount to make sure you and your family are as safe as possible when it comes to your vehicles. That’s why Drury Tires now offer the best WOF service in South Auckland.
Okay, first let’s dispel a few myths with regards to WOFs. It’s illegal to drive a car without a valid WOF. If the car fails on inspection, the driver will be given 28-days to get it repaired. The 28 days do not allow a person to continue using the vehicle for a purpose other than for bringing the vehicle into compliance. So, no gaining a bonus month that way! Another reason not to neglect your WOF.
Family owned, Drury Tires believe in families keeping families safe. That’s why, in addition to WOFs, we also offer a free 12 point check when you mention this code. A WOF inspection is a good way to make sure your vehicle is fully compliant. Many drivers get caught out by WOF requirements for minor issues. Here are the most common causes of a failed WOF when left to the last minute.
Previous WOF Notes
First things first, warnings or notes on the last WoF checklist should have been remembered. If about a year has passed since the last check, this time they may fail if problems have not yet been fixed. Common notes would be tire tread depth or drop brakes, which may need to be replaced before the next WoF inspection, but might pass on the day of inspection.
Lights
Make sure all lights are working properly before your WOF – you may need a tail light volunteer to do this – walk around the outside of the car and make sure all lenses are clean, free of cracks and moisture.
Steering & Suspension
It’s not easy to fix it yourself, but there may be signs that something is wrong and that you need to fix it and get tested before your WOF. Additional knocking sounds and the feeling of unsteadiness are all clear signs that something is wrong. Other indicators can be an indirect or difficult-to-use steering wheel, fluid leaks or warning lights on the dashboard.
Tires
Be sure to visually inspect all four wheels as well as the spare (if applicable) to make sure it is safe. A good trick is to use a 20 cent coin to check the tread of your tires, place a coin in the tread with the number “20” facing out, which means that if you see the entire number, your tire is near the threshold, and you should replace it. Also check the general condition of the tires for unusual wear and damage.
Brakes
Some disc brake pads have warning indicators in the form of metal stripes that are deep enough to rub against the disc when the pads reach their minimum useful thickness, to warn the driver that the brake material could run out and collect the vehicle and replace it. The frictional noise of the wear indicator is usually more noticeable when the brakes are not applied and the noise can be diluted. Another common sign that you need repairs is low brake fluid level or regular lubrication.
Window Wipers
Be sure to check both the front and rear wipers and the washer nozzle (sometimes it can be blocked completely or partly ), fill the tank with solution and top it with water if necessary. Be sure to check your windshield for scratches and cracks, and clean all glass (including mirrors).
So, if you’re coming up to your WOF renewal date, or aren’t quite sure when that is, get in touch with us today for the best car service in South Auckland. We’d be glad to help.