Under Victorian law, every vehicle must have a valid roadworthy certificate. Whether you are buying, selling or re-registering a car in Dandenong or anywhere across Victoria, it is illegal to proceed without a valid roadworthy certificate. A Certificate of Roadworthiness can only be issued by an authorised vehicle inspector. Once the roadworthy certificate in Dandenong is issued, you have 30 days from the date of issue to complete the transfer or registration process.
Before you can register a vehicle in your name, or transfer the registration to a new owner, the car must undergo a roadworthy inspection to ensure it meets minimum safety standards.
The inspection must be performed by a licensed vehicle tester in Melbourne, such as Continental Dandenong. If the vehicle fails the initial inspection, you’ll have 7 days to repair or replace the specific items identified in the report. If the required repairs are not completed within this timeframe, a full roadworthy inspection must be carried out again.
The cost of a roadworthy certificate in Dandenong can vary depending on the vehicle’s age, make and model.
What Is Included in a Roadworthy Inspection in Dandenong?
The roadworthy inspection in Dandenong is a vital safety check focused on determining whether your vehicle is fit for use on public roads. It concentrates on key safety-related systems and components that are critical to safe driving.
The inspection typically covers:
- Tyres and Wheels
The tyres are checked to ensure they have adequate tread depth and are free from cuts, cracks, or other damage that could compromise grip and safety. Wheels are also examined for any signs of damage or distortion that could affect the stability and handling of the vehicle.
- Steering, Suspension and Braking Systems
These systems are evaluated to confirm that the vehicle steers accurately, maintains stability, and can brake efficiently. Any signs of wear, looseness or failure in these critical components can lead to unsafe driving conditions and must be addressed.
- Seats and Seatbelts
Seats are inspected to ensure they are firmly secured to the vehicle structure. Seatbelts are checked for proper operation, including retracting and locking functions, and must be free from frays, cuts, or damage to ensure occupant protection in the event of an accident.
- Lights and Reflectors
The functionality of all external lights—including headlights, brake lights, indicators, and reverse lights—is checked, along with reflectors. Proper lighting is essential for visibility at night and for signalling intentions to other road users.
- Windscreen and Windows, Including Front Wipers and Washers
The windscreen and windows are assessed for cracks, chips, or excessive tinting that could impair visibility. Wipers and washers are also checked to ensure they can effectively clear the windscreen during wet conditions, maintaining safe visibility.
- Vehicle Structure
The overall condition of the vehicle’s frame, body, and undercarriage is examined for rust, corrosion, cracks, or other forms of damage that could weaken the vehicle’s structural integrity and compromise safety in a collision.
- Other Safety-Related Components
Additional safety-related checks include inspecting the exhaust system, engine mountings, and fuel system components to ensure there are no leaks, disconnections, or unsafe fittings that could lead to hazards during operation.
Through this focused assessment, the roadworthy inspection ensures your vehicle meets the minimum legal safety standards required for driving in Victoria.
What Is Not Included in a Roadworthy Inspection?
While a roadworthy inspection covers crucial safety aspects, it is not a comprehensive mechanical check and should not be confused with a full vehicle evaluation. The following areas are not included:
- Confirmation of Perfect Cosmetic or Mechanical Condition
The inspection does not verify that your vehicle is in flawless mechanical health or aesthetic condition. Minor cosmetic damage, mechanical wear and tear, oil leaks, or engine performance issues that do not directly impact immediate road safety are outside the scope of the roadworthy test.
- Assessment of Non-Safety-Related Features
Features such as the air conditioning system, rear window demister, electric windows, infotainment systems, or rear wipers are not part of the inspection. Even if these systems are not operational, the vehicle can still pass a roadworthy inspection as long as critical safety components are in good condition.
- Guarantee of Continued Functionality
The roadworthy certificate reflects the condition of the vehicle only at the time of inspection. It does not guarantee that all inspected components will continue to function afterward. For example, a brake light that worked during the test could fail the next day due to a blown bulb or wiring issue.
If you require a detailed evaluation of the overall condition of your vehicle, including mechanical performance, reliability, and long-term safety, it is strongly recommended to arrange a comprehensive mechanical inspection.
How Long Is a Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) Valid?
In Victoria, a Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. If the 30-day window expires without action, a new inspection will be required to ensure the vehicle still meets the safety standards.
It’s important to understand that the certificate’s validity only applies to the document, not the ongoing condition of the vehicle. Safety or mechanical issues may still occur after the inspection. To avoid delays or additional inspections, it is recommended to complete all required processes promptly.
If you’re looking for a complete inspection of your vehicle’s condition beyond just safety compliance, feel free to contact us at 03 9791 8841 for a comprehensive assessment.