Most Australian drivers have heard about roadworthy inspections. However, they do not know when they need a roadworthy inspection or the benefits of these assessments. Below is an extensive piece with all you need to know about roadworthy inspections in Australia. 

What Are Roadworthy Inspections? 

A roadworthy inspection examines whether a vehicle is safe to use on Australian roads. If the car passes the assessment, you will receive a certificate of roadworthiness (RWC). It is essential to note that the roadworthy inspection only examines the vehicle's safety features. Therefore, you cannot use the report to determine the condition of elements that do not affect the vehicle's safety. These include the AC, seats, infotainment system and body. 

When Do You Need A Roadworthy Inspection? 

You are free to request a roadworthy inspection at any time. However, the assessment is a mandatory protocol when transferring vehicle ownership, registering a vehicle to another state or registering an unregistered vehicle. Moreover, you need a roadworthy inspection if you make modifications that affect the car's safety. For example, you might have altered the chassis to adjust the wheelbase. Alternatively, you might have changed your vehicle from left to right-hand drive. If you restore a written-off vehicle, you need a roadworthy inspection before driving it on Australian roads. Similarly, rally and home-built cars need an RWC if their owners wish to drive them on Australian roads. 

What Happens During Roadworthy Inspections? 

Suppose you need a roadworthy inspection; conduct due diligence to determine mechanics accredited to issue roadworthy certificates. The best practice would be to book an inspection before visiting the mechanic. During the inspection, the mechanic assesses the vehicle's lighting, suspension, tires, steering, braking system, vehicle's frame and windscreen. If the car meets the required standard, you will receive a certificate of roadworthiness. The RWC has a prescribed validity. For instance, depending on your state, it could expire after a stipulated period or mileage. If your car does not pass the inspection, the mechanic details the improvements needed to make the vehicle roadworthy. For instance, you might need to install new towers or restore the OEM suspension. 

Can You Dispute A Roadworthy Inspection Report? 

In some cases, you might dispute the outcome of the roadworthy inspection. Once this happens, you should seek a second opinion from another accredited mechanic. If the new assessment gives the vehicle a clean bill of health, consult the original inspector and ask them to adjust their report.