I’m Ky, and with years of experience as a mechanic and founder of Send It Mobile Mechanical Services, I know the process of going through repairs and inspections to prepare your car for a Roadworthy Certificate (also known as a safety certificate) can seem daunting. A roadworthy certificate is a legal requirement in Queensland, especially if you’re selling your vehicle or transferring its ownership. But don’t worry! With the right preparation, you can avoid the hassle and get your car ready for inspection in no time.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact steps I follow when preparing a car for an RWC inspection and share my checklist of what to look for. And of course, if you want the peace of mind that comes with having a professional mechanic handle the inspection, I’m here to help with mobile services that bring the inspection to you—anywhere in the Sunshine Coast.
Most People Know You Need a Prepare Your Car for a Roadworthy Certificate:
But, Just In Case You Didn’t Know, Here’s Why:
When you prepare your car for a Roadworthy Certificate it ensures that your car meets the minimum safety standards set by Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads. It covers all the essential elements that keep your car safe to drive, including brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, and body condition. If you’re selling a vehicle, transferring ownership, or re-registering an unregistered car, an RWC is mandatory.
If you fail the inspection, you’ll have to get any faults repaired and then have the vehicle reinspected. To avoid this, follow the steps below to ensure your car passes on the first go.
Want it done the easy way?
You don’t need to go through the hassle to DIY prepare your car for a roadworthy! Book in via our website the easy, stress free way, through me. Getting a professional in your corner takes out the guesswork and with almost a decade of experience in mechanics, I’m you’re expert! Call me, Ky and I can come to you – anywhere on the sunshine coast to get a roadworthy certificate done the easy way. Plus, if any repairs need doing, I can do it right there and then!
Step-by-Step Guide To Prepare Your Car for a Roadworthy Inspection
1. Start with the Basics: Paperwork and Registration
Before getting into the physical inspection of your vehicle, make sure all your paperwork is in order. This is the most important – and somehow most overlooked step I see! People spend forever researching on how to prepare your car for a roadworthy, and forget the basics – all the time! A valid registration and vehicle service history will be required.
Paperwork Checklist:
- Ensure the car is currently registered.
- Have the service history available to show that the car has been well-maintained.
- Check the VIN number to make sure it matches the registration details.
Pro Tip: A clean service history can help you avoid surprises during the inspection and improve the vehicle’s value if you plan to sell it.
2. Exterior Inspection: Look for Wear and Tear
The exterior of your car is the first thing the inspector will check. While the appearance isn’t everything, the condition of your vehicle’s body can reveal structural issues.
Exterior Checklist:
- Body Condition: Walk around the car and inspect the body for any signs of damage. Look for dents, rust spots, and misaligned panels.
- Any rust, especially on the chassis or frame, can be a major safety concern.
- Windows and Windscreen: Inspect for any cracks, chips, or scratches. Ensure all windows roll up and down without issue. The windscreen must be clear of any damage within the driver’s line of sight.
- Wipers: Check that your windshield wipers are in good condition and function properly.
- Lights: All exterior lights, including headlights, indicators, brake lights, and reverse lights, should work. Check for broken or faded lenses.
Deal Breaker: Rust that has penetrated the frame or critical areas like door sills can fail the inspection. Replacing the glass on a windscreen can also be expensive if cracks or chips are too deep.
3. Tyres and Wheels: Safety and Tread Depth
Your tyres are one of the most important safety components of your vehicle. Worn-out or improperly inflated tyres can cause an immediate fail.
Wheel and Tyre Checklist:
- Tyre Tread Depth: The legal minimum tread depth in Queensland is 1.5mm. Inspect the tyres for sufficient tread, and look for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment issues.
- Tyre Condition: Check for any cracks, bulges, or punctures in the tyres. The inspector will check all four tyres, so be sure they’re in good condition.
- Spare Tyre: Don’t forget the spare tyre! It needs to be properly inflated and meet the same safety standards as the other tyres.
Pro Tip: Uneven wear on tyres can suggest issues with alignment or suspension. If the tread depth is low, it’s best to replace the tyres before the inspection.
4. Brakes: Function and Safety
A properly functioning brake system is critical for passing an RWC inspection. Both foot and hand brakes will be tested.
Brakes Checklist:
- Brake Pads and Rotors: Inspect the brake pads for wear. They should have at least 3mm of material left. If your brakes make squealing or grinding sounds, the pads or rotors may need replacing.
- Brake Fluid: Check the brake fluid level. If it’s low or discolored, top it up and consider having the system flushed.
- Handbrake: Test the handbrake to ensure it holds the car on an incline without slipping.
Pro Tip: If your brakes feel spongy or the car pulls to one side when braking, these are signs of uneven brake wear or issues with the brake lines. Get them checked before the inspection.
5. Steering and Suspension: Smooth and Safe Handling
Your car’s steering and suspension need to be in top shape to ensure smooth handling and to pass the inspection.
Steering and Suspension Checklist:
- Steering Wheel Play: Turn the steering wheel to check for any play. There shouldn’t be more than a small amount of movement before the wheels turn.
- Suspension: Push down on the front and rear of the car. If the car bounces more than once, the suspension might be worn out.
- Shocks and Struts: Inspect for any fluid leaks or damage around the shock absorbers and struts. These components should be dry and in good condition.
Pro Tip: Worn-out suspension components can cause poor handling and uneven tyre wear. If you notice any clunking sounds when driving over bumps, it’s worth having the suspension checked before your RWC inspection.
6. Under the Hood: Fluids, Belts, and Hoses
A significant part of the inspection happens under the hood. Even if everything looks fine on the outside, problems here could cause an inspection failure.
Engine Checklist:
- Engine Oil: Check the oil level using the dipstick. The oil should be golden or light brown. Dark, thick oil could indicate poor maintenance.
- Coolant: Check the coolant level in the reservoir and ensure it’s topped up to the recommended level. If the coolant is dirty or low, it could suggest leaks or overheating problems.
- Transmission Fluid: For automatic vehicles, check the transmission fluid. It should be red or pink. If it’s dark or smells burnt, the transmission might need servicing.
- Belts and Hoses: Inspect all drive belts and hoses for cracks, wear, or leaks. Belts should be tight without signs of fraying, and hoses should be flexible but not too soft or brittle.
Pro Tip: A small oil or coolant leak can cause a fail. If you notice any fluid dripping under your car, get it repaired before the inspection.
7. Exhaust System: Prevent Leaks and Noise Issues
The exhaust system ensures your car runs smoothly and meets emission standards.
Exhaust Checklist:
- Exhaust Leaks: Listen for any loud noises coming from the exhaust system, as this could indicate leaks or holes.
- Secure Fittings: Check that the exhaust is securely attached and not hanging loose or swaying under the vehicle.
Pro Tip: Rusted or loose exhaust systems are common in older cars. If your exhaust sounds louder than usual, it’s likely due for repairs.
8. Interior Safety Features: Seatbelts and Airbags
The safety features inside your car will be thoroughly checked during the inspection.
Interior Checklist:
- Seatbelts: Ensure all seatbelts are working properly and retract smoothly. Any fraying or damage will require replacement.
- Airbags: The airbag light on your dashboard should not be illuminated. If it is, there could be a fault in the system that will need to be addressed.
Pro Tip: Seatbelts are one of the most commonly overlooked items, but frayed or non-functioning seatbelts can result in an automatic fail.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Before an Inspection
Even with the best intentions, many car owners make simple mistakes before their roadworthy inspection. Here’s how to avoid some of the most common pitfalls:
- Ignoring Fluid Leaks: Even a minor leak can fail an inspection. Check all fluid levels, and inspect the undercarriage for any visible leaks.
- Overlooking Seatbelts: Damaged or frayed seatbelts are a common reason for failing. Make sure all belts are in good condition and function correctly.
- Skipping a Diagnostic Check: Many modern cars store error codes in their onboard diagnostics system, even if the check engine light isn’t illuminated. Running a diagnostic check can uncover hidden issues before the inspection.
Why Choose Send It Mobile Mechanical Services?
I know that going through the checks and fixes to prepare your car for a roadworthy inspection can feel overwhelming, but that’s where Send It Mobile Mechanical Services comes in.Choosing Send It Mobile Mechanical Services for your roadworthy inspection offers numerous advantages that ensure a smooth, stress-free experience:
- Mobile Service: We come to you, whether you’re at home or work, saving you time and effort. No need to visit a workshop.
- Expert Inspection: With years of experience, I’ll ensure your car is thoroughly checked, spotting any issues you might miss.
- On-the-Spot Repairs: From replacing worn tyres to fixing faulty brakes, we can often address issues immediately, helping you avoid the hassle of re-inspections.
- Extra Services: Need a spare key or a diagnostic scan? We offer these services and more to make sure your car is in perfect shape.
Using This Blog: You Can DIY Prepare Your Car For A Roadworthy Certificate
But, If You Want an Expert in Your Corner
Let me, Ky, take the hassle out of all the checks and repairs when you prepare your car for a roadworthy certificate. Book your mobile inspection today, and ensure your car is safe, legal, and ready for the road. Contact us at Send It Mobile Mechanical Services for a complete, professional inspection that saves you time, money, and stress.
To schedule an inspection or learn more about our services, call us at 0456183541 or book via our website. Don’t risk a failed inspection—let us make sure your vehicle is ready!
