Often referred to as a pink slip, a roadworthy certificate is an annual inspection that drivers must complete. Even though it may seem inconvenient and time-consuming, it is never a good idea to drive uninsured or unregistered. Because there are no registration stickers to be placed on the windscreen, many drivers are beginning to forget when their registrations are due for inspection. This can lead to costly fines and a lapse in registration.
It is important for drivers to take note of when their expiration date is for their certificate and give themselves a couple of weeks to get the car inspected and checked for roadworthiness. It is important to prepare a couple of weeks ahead of time to allow for any issues related to safety to be fixed before the inspection. The importance of this is to make sure you, your family and other drivers on the road stay safe and can enjoy a safer driving environment.
If you can, you can check some of the safety requirements on your own before going to your inspection. If you find any issues, take your vehicle to your local mechanic for help. If you are about to buy a used vehicle, take it for pre-purchase car inspections Brisbane before the inspection. Below are some of the top tips for getting your car to pass the roadworthy certificate inspection.
1. Tires
One of the most important things to check on your vehicle is the tires. If your tires are not secure, have enough tread or are not inflated properly, you will be putting yourself at risk when out on the roads. All tires have indicators that allow drivers to know when they have enough wear to be replaced. The tread of your tires should always be above the indicators. Be sure to check the entire tire, especially further in where it’s harder to see under the vehicle.
2. Wipers
Wipers that do not work properly can create a dangerous hazard while driving. They are necessary to keep your windshield clean and clear to view the road and traffic. Before heading off to your roadworthy inspection, check their operation. Is water easily wiped away when they are being used? Is there any damage to the wiper blades? Do you see water being sprayed onto your windshield when you use the cleaning solution?
3. Oil Leaks
Oil should never be leaking from your car. Unfortunately, most people do not realize they have an oil leak until they see an oil spot under their car. If you smell oil coming from under your hood, have it checked by your local mechanic before going in for your roadworthy inspection. Using a degreaser under the hood can help keep things looking neat and tidy.
4. AirBag and ABS Light On
If your airbag or ABS light is on in your vehicle, you will automatically fail your roadworthy inspection. Get these checked out weeks in advance to have them repaired if needed. If there’s nothing wrong with your airbags or ABS, you may need to disconnect your battery for up to 10 minutes to allow the indicator to clear off the screen. To do this, you will need your radio code. Many cars have this located in the glove compartment.
5. Suspension
While driving, listen for a knocking sound. This could indicate you have a problem with your suspension and the rubber bushings are worn down and need replacing. Most of the knocking would be heard and felt while leaving your driveway. When picking up speed, you may not feel anything.
6. Lights
Check each of the lights on your vehicle to ensure they do not need replacing. Check the high beams, headlights, parkers, indicators, brake lights and number plate lights. You may need the help of a friend or family member to get this done. Also, do a quick horn check to ensure it is working properly.
7. Hand Brake
Your vehicle’s hand brake needs to be working and able to hold your vehicle securely on an incline or decline.
8. Seatbelts
All of your vehicle seat belts need to lock and retract properly. There should be no fraying in the webbing.
9. Exhaust
Test your vehicle’s exhaust for leaks. If you hear a slight fluffing sound while driving, this may indicate a leak and could cause major health issues.
Author Bio:
Lisa Eclesworth is a notable and influential lifestyle writer. She is a mom of two and a successful homemaker. She loves to cook and create beautiful projects with her family. She writes informative and fun articles that her readers love and enjoy. You can directly connect with her on email – [email protected] or visit her website www.lisaeclesworth.com