When it comes to keeping your car legal, safe, and ready for resale or transfer, passing your roadworthy certificate inspection is a must. Whether you’re preparing to sell your vehicle or simply ensuring it remains safe for everyday driving, being prepared can make the difference between passing the inspection the first time or facing avoidable delays. If you’ve recently had a car service in Bentleigh, or plan to, you’re already one step closer to ticking this off your checklist. This guide will walk you through what to expect and how to get ready smartly.
Understand What a Roadworthy Certificate Is
In Victoria, a roadworthy certificate is required when a vehicle is sold, re-registered, or needs to clear a defect notice. Issued by licensed vehicle testers, this certificate proves your car is in a safe condition to drive on public roads.
However, it’s not a complete mechanical check. Instead, it focuses on components related to the safe operation of your vehicle. Many car owners confuse this with a logbook or major service, but they serve different purposes.
A car may run well mechanically and still fail a roadworthiness if the tires are bald or the seatbelt doesn’t retract correctly. That’s why it’s essential to understand the scope of this inspection and prepare accordingly.
What Gets Checked in a Roadworthy Inspection?
Before you book in for your inspection, it’s helpful to know what the mechanic will look at. The licensed tester will inspect a list of safety-related components to determine if they meet required standards.
These typically include:
- Tyres and wheels – tread depth, sidewall condition, and wear
- Brakes and suspension – including pads, rotors, and shock absorbers
- Steering systems – responsiveness and stability
- Lights and indicators – full functionality and alignment
- Seatbelts and restraints – damage-free and fully operational
- Windscreen, wipers, and washers – cracks, chips, and visibility
- Chassis and vehicle structure – rust, damage, or loose fittings
The goal of this inspection is not to find cosmetic issues, but to ensure roadworthiness and safety for all road users.
Fix Small Issues Before the Inspection
Small issues often lead to failed inspections, things you might overlook in day-to-day driving. Before booking your test, it’s worth performing a basic DIY check, or better yet, schedule a car service in Bentleigh with a trusted workshop to address these in advance.
Check your:
- Wipers and washer fluid levels
- Tyres for visible wear and pressure
- Exterior and interior lights
- Mirrors for cracks or looseness
- Windscreen for chips in the driver’s line of sight
Even small fixes can prevent unnecessary back-and-forth. By addressing these yourself or with your mechanic, you’ll reduce the risk of failure and make the inspection smoother.
Keep Records of Previous Repairs or Servicing
If you’ve recently had tyres replaced, brake pads installed, or undergone suspension repairs, bring that documentation along with you. It can help the mechanic confirm components have been recently serviced or replaced.
Not only does this show proactive maintenance, but it also supports transparency if something appears borderline during the inspection. Well-documented maintenance gives the vehicle a better chance at a pass and shows the inspector that you’re keeping the car in good order.
If you’re not sure where your vehicle stands, ask your workshop to conduct a pre-roadworthy check. This can help uncover hidden issues and save you time and money in the long run.
What Happens If Your Car Fails?
If your vehicle doesn’t pass on the first attempt, don’t stress. You’ll be given a detailed report highlighting the failed items. From there, you typically have 7–14 days (depending on the shop’s policy) to fix the faults and return for a second inspection, often free of charge.
This is why it’s wise to schedule your inspection ahead of time if you’re planning a sale or registration transfer. Leaving it too close to a deadline can cause unnecessary stress, especially if unexpected repairs pop up.
Midway through the inspection process, particularly in suburbs like Bentleigh, it’s common to ask your mechanic whether the vehicle is in shape for a roadworthy certificate in Bentleigh. A proactive conversation can give you clarity and a head start.
Choose the Right Workshop
Not all workshops are licensed to issue roadworthy certificates. You’ll need to choose a licensed vehicle tester who is familiar with VicRoads standards and guidelines.
It helps to go with a reputable, well-reviewed workshop in your area that offers a wide range of services so you can get minor repairs, tyre replacements, or adjustments done on the spot if needed.
Look for a mechanic who:
- Communicates clearly about what is required
- Offers fair pricing and timelines
- Has experience with a wide range of vehicle types
- Provides detailed written feedback, not just a fail/pass
Ready to Book Your Roadworthy? Let’s Get You Sorted
There’s no need to stress about passing your roadworthy certificate inspection with the right preparation and support, it can be a simple and smooth process. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve done this before, the key is choosing a reliable team who understands what your vehicle needs.
At Carnegie Automotive, we provide honest assessments, timely inspections, and straightforward advice to help you get your certificate without delay. Located conveniently for drivers in Bentleigh East, Ormond, Hughesdale, Oakleigh and Murrumbeena and surrounding suburbs, our expert team is ready to assist you. Call us today on (03) 9563 6717 or visit our Google My Business Profile to learn more or to book your next roadworthy inspection.