AA vehicle safety check to reassure motorists

The AA has stepped up to fill a gap left by a change to the Warrant of Fitness testing frequency which started this month.

AA Motoring Services General Manager Stella Stocks says many motorists rely on the regular six-monthly WoF checks to ensure their vehicle was safe for the road.

“Ideally, outside of the WoF process we should all check tyres every month looking at tread depth and pressure, ensure all lights are functioning and be aware of braking performance although we know a lot of people use the six-monthly WoF inspection to confirm these things are all ok,” Ms Stocks says.

From this month, cars manufactured after January 1 2004 are subject to 12 month WoF checks. This will be extended from July to cars manufactured after January 1 2000.

Ms Stocks says while the AA supports the government’s decision to reduce the frequency of WoF checks, motorists will need to be more vigilant with some parts of a car that could create safety issues if not well maintained.

“A WoF inspection is just a snapshot in time and ensures that everything looked at during the check is sound on the day,” Ms Stocks says.

Nearly a third of the vehicles inspected by the AA fail their six month WoF and the AA Safety Check will address the most common reasons for that.

“Tyres, brakes and lights can easily develop faults or wear out even within six months and it’s the motorist’s responsibility to ensure the vehicle is always roadworthy,” Ms Stocks says.

“We developed the AA Safety Check to help motorists transition from a six month WoF inspection to 12 month regime. It’s a 16-point check available at nearly 50 places around New Zealand.

“We’re looking at lights all around the vehicle, under the bonnet, vision, steering, tyres, brakes and seatbelts. We’ll assess all of these and provide a copy of our check sheet and talk through any areas of concern.”

The AA Safety Check is not as comprehensive as a WoF and is not a pre-purchase inspection.

AA Members will be eligible for up to two free AA Safety Checks a year on presentation of their membership card. Non-AA members will pay $19 for the service.

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