New Zealand is extending the interval between vehicle safety inspections, prompting warnings about increased risk of unsafe cars on the road. Starting next month, new vehicles will not require a second WoF for four years, while older models face longer intervals between checks.
The changes, announced by the government, extend the time between mandatory vehicle safety inspections, raising concerns among mechanics and industry leaders. Starting next month, new cars will not need a second Warrant of Fitness (WoF) for four years, while vehicles aged 4 to 14 years will move from annual to two-yearly check. Older cars from 2000 to 2013 remain on annual checks, but pre-2000 models will shift from six-monthly to one year.
Extended Intervals and Safety Concerns
Jason Wilson, chief executive of Midas NZ, warned that the changes could lead to more unsafe vehicles on the road. There's a gap right now on teaching kids, teaching people that have just left school how to maintain their vehicles,
he said. Wilson emphasized that regular self-checks, such as inspecting tires, windscreen wipers, and oil leaks, are critical to mitigating risks. You maintain it, it looks after you, and right now the change going from a year to two years, there's going to be unsafe vehicles on the road.
The Motor Trade Association’s James McDowall highlighted the risks for older vehicles, noting that fail rates on safety-critical issues rise sharply for cars aged eight to 10 years. That's when the fail rates on safety critical issues are around that 30-35% mark, and then it climbs from there,
he said. McDowall also criticized the government for unexpectedly extending the WoF duration to 14 years, a move not included in initial consultations.
Government Rationale and Public Reaction
Associate Transport Minister James Meager defended the changes, stating they aim to modernise the country’s vehicle inspection approach. New Zealand currently has one of the most frequent regimes globally.
We want to make sure we're not placing unnecessary costs or time pressures on Kiwis, while still keeping everyone safe on the road,
he said.
Wilson noted that the cost of delayed servicing could outweigh savings. So there's going to be less checks, but when your car is not serviced after two years, that cost is going to be higher.
He also urged tradespeople and frequent drivers to prioritize regular maintenance, as their vehicles face heavier use. These guys are on the road a lot and they're carrying a lot of gear with them… you need to get your car serviced. It needs to be regular.
Industry and Public Calls for Vigilance
The changes have sparked calls for greater public awareness. Wilson advised checking for rust, tire wear, and other visible issues, stating, Everyone knows what rust looks like and it's not good when your car goes rusty.
Conducting regular checks can save money on services and late WoFs.