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.
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Use this guide to check your car before your WOF appointment. Fixing small issues yourself can save you the hassle of a failed inspection.
Top 10 WOF Failure Reasons
Based on NZTA data, here are the most common failures:
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 larger than 15mm in swept area
- ☐ No cracks longer than 30mm
- ☐ 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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