How Much Does a WOF Cost in NZ? (2026 Price Guide)
Complete guide to WOF inspection costs in New Zealand. Learn what to expect to pay, what fails a WOF, and how to save money on your next inspection.
Quick Answer
A WOF (Warrant of Fitness) in New Zealand typically costs between $50 - $70 as of 2026. VTNZ charges $54.00, while AA charges around $59.00. Independent garages may charge $45-$65.
In This Guide
What is a WOF?
A Warrant of Fitness (WOF) is a regular safety inspection required for all vehicles in New Zealand. It ensures your vehicle meets minimum safety standards to be driven on public roads. The WOF checks essential safety components like brakes, tyres, lights, steering, and structural integrity.
How often do you need a WOF?
- • Vehicles first registered on or after 1 January 2000: Annual WOF once the vehicle is 3 years old
- • Vehicles first registered before 1 January 2000: WOF every 6 months
- • New vehicles (under 3 years): No WOF required, but must display a current licence
WOF Prices by Provider (2026)
| Provider | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| VTNZ | $54.00 | Standard rate, online booking available |
| AA | $59.00 | Members may get discounts |
| VINZ | $55.00 | Standard light vehicle rate |
| Independent Garages | $45 - $65 | Prices vary by location |
💡 Pro Tip
Many mechanics include a free WOF when you get your car serviced with them. This can save you $50+ if your service and WOF are due around the same time.
What Do They Check in a WOF?
WOF inspectors check over 60 different items on your vehicle. Here are the main categories:
🚗 Structural
- • Body and chassis condition
- • Rust and corrosion
- • Doors and latches
🛞 Tyres & Wheels
- • Tread depth (min 1.5mm)
- • Tyre condition
- • Wheel bearings
🔴 Brakes
- • Brake pad thickness
- • Brake performance
- • Handbrake operation
💡 Lights & Visibility
- • All lights working
- • Windscreen condition
- • Wipers and washers
Most Common WOF Failures
According to NZTA data, these are the top reasons vehicles fail their WOF:
- 1 Lights not working - bulbs are cheap, check them yourself before the WOF
- 2 Worn tyres - tread must be at least 1.5mm deep
- 3 Brake issues - worn pads, discs, or poor performance
- 4 Windscreen damage - chips or cracks in the driver's line of sight
- 5 Suspension wear - worn bushes, shock absorbers, or ball joints
How to Save Money on Your WOF
Do a pre-WOF check yourself
Check all lights, wipers, and obvious issues before your appointment. A $5 bulb replaced at home is cheaper than a re-inspection fee.
Combine with a service
Many mechanics offer free WOF with a service. If both are due, this can save you $50+.
Shop around
Independent garages are often cheaper than chains. Check reviews to ensure quality.
Get repairs quoted separately
If you fail, you don't have to get repairs done at the same place. Get quotes from multiple mechanics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I fail my WOF? ▼
You'll receive a list of items that need fixing. You have 28 days to get repairs done and return for a re-inspection (usually free or low cost at the same place). Your vehicle is not legally drivable if it fails certain critical items.
Can I drive with an expired WOF? ▼
No. Driving with an expired WOF can result in a $200 infringement fee. Your insurance may also be affected if you're in an accident with an expired WOF.
How long does a WOF take? ▼
A standard WOF inspection takes about 30-45 minutes. If issues are found, additional time may be needed to discuss repairs.
Is it worth getting a pre-WOF inspection? ▼
If you're concerned about failing, a pre-WOF check (around $30-50) can identify issues beforehand. However, doing basic checks yourself (lights, tyres, wipers) is free and catches most common failures.