What Fails a WOF? Complete 2026 Checklist
Prepare for your WOF inspection with our complete checklist of common failures. Know what inspectors look for and fix issues before your appointment.
By MechanicNearMe· Published · Updated · Prices last checked January 2026
Prices are typical New Zealand ranges and vary by vehicle, parts and workshop — ask for a written quote.
Quick Answer
The most common WOF failures are lights, tyres, brakes, windscreen and wipers, and suspension and steering. You can check most of these at home before your appointment: every bulb, tyre tread (at least 1.5 mm across the tread), brake feel, and chips or cracks in the wiper area.
Print This Checklist
Use this guide to check your car before your WOF appointment. Fixing small issues yourself can save you the hassle of a failed inspection.
What Are the Most Common Reasons a Car Fails a WOF?
These are the most common areas where cars fail:
1. Lighting Issues (Most Common!)
Burnt-out bulbs, cracked lenses, or lights not working properly.
Check yourself:
- ☐ Headlights (high and low beam)
- ☐ Indicators (front, rear, side)
- ☐ Brake lights (all 3 including high-mount)
- ☐ Tail lights and number plate light
- ☐ Reverse lights
- ☐ Hazard lights
2. Tyres
Worn tread, damage, or incorrect tyres fitted.
Check yourself:
- ☐ Tread depth at least 1.5mm across width
- ☐ No cuts, bulges, or exposed cords
- ☐ Same type tyres on each axle
- ☐ Correct size for vehicle
3. Brakes
Worn pads, low fluid, poor performance.
Check yourself:
- ☐ Pedal doesn't go to floor
- ☐ No grinding or squealing
- ☐ Handbrake works properly
- ☐ Car stops in straight line
4. Windscreen & Wipers
Chips, cracks, or worn wipers in driver's field of vision.
Check yourself:
- ☐ No chips or cracks in the driver's view or wiper area (limits depend on size and position)
- ☐ Wipers clear screen properly
- ☐ Washer works and reservoir filled
5. Suspension & Steering
Worn bushes, ball joints, or excessive play.
Check yourself:
- ☐ No clunking over bumps
- ☐ Car doesn't wander at speed
- ☐ No excessive play in steering wheel
6. Structure & Rust
Corrosion affecting structural integrity.
Check yourself:
- ☐ No rust-through in structural areas
- ☐ Sills, floor, and chassis solid
- ☐ Seat belts mount securely
7. Seatbelts
Damaged, frayed, or non-functioning belts.
Check yourself:
- ☐ All belts latch and release properly
- ☐ No cuts, fraying, or damage
- ☐ Retractors work smoothly
- ☐ Warning light works (where fitted)
8. Speedometer
Speedometer must be working and visible.
Check yourself:
- ☐ Displays speed when driving
- ☐ Illuminates at night
- ☐ KPH figures clearly visible
9. Doors & Latches
Doors must open and close securely.
Check yourself:
- ☐ All doors latch properly
- ☐ Can be opened from inside
- ☐ Bonnet secured properly
10. Exhaust & Emissions
Leaking or excessively noisy exhaust.
Check yourself:
- ☐ No holes or leaks in exhaust
- ☐ Not excessively loud
- ☐ No excessive smoke
💡 Quick Wins Before Your WOF
- • Replace any burnt bulbs - usually under $10
- • Fill washer reservoir and check wipers
- • Clean lights and mirrors
- • Check tyre pressures
- • Make sure nothing is blocking the speedo
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