Seen a few folks come in lately, especially around Five Cross Roads, wondering about what actually happens if your car fails its Warrant of Fitness (WOF) check. Always the same question – what’s the deal with driving and insurance during that 28-day recheck period? Let’s clear it up, neighbour-style.
If you get the dreaded “fail” on your WOF (happens more than you think, especially with Hamilton’s potholes and all that stop-start on Ulster Street), your vehicle’s officially unfit to be on the road – but you do get 28 days to sort repairs and get a free recheck. Don’t get carried away though. Those 28 days don’t mean you can use your car as normal. Only approved reason to drive is straight to the mechanic or WOF recheck. Can’t just nip to Chartwell for a coffee run or zip the kids to netball practice in Glenview.
How to Avoid Paying Again for a WOF Recheck?
It stings to pay twice for the same job, so here’s what you need to remember. To dodge that second fee, just make sure you take the car back to the same place you failed first time. And do it within 28 days. After that? Sorry, you’ll be paying full price for another WOF. Doesn’t matter if you drive a Ford Ranger, Nissan Serena, or something a bit different like a Peugeot 308, the rule’s the same for everyone.
It is important to read and understand exactly what you are covered for in your agreement with the insurance company.
Am I Insured Driving with No WOF During the 28 Days?
Right, this is where heaps of confusion happens. Short answer: in most cases, your insurance won’t cover you while your car’s failed a WOF. Doesn’t matter if you’re buzzing out to Te Awamutu in your Toyota Hiace or just ducking up Tramway Road to get parts for your hybrid. Unless you’re taking the car for repairs or straight to a recheck, you’re not legally meant to drive it. Insurance companies will read the fine print – and so should you!
There was a special exemption during the Covid level 4 lockdown. The Insurance Council of NZ said you’d still be insured for essential trips while WOFs were expired. But that’s ancient history now and doesn’t apply anymore. So, don’t assume you’re covered – especially when Hamilton’s back roads and country lanes (looking at you, Cambridge and Ngaruawahia) throw up more hazards than ever!
What If I Get in an Accident During the 28 Days?
This one’s tough. If you have a prang during that window, one of our techs will tell you straight – chances are, your insurance won’t pay out. And if the thing that failed the WOF (like stuffed brakes or bald tyres) contributed to the smash? Insurer will say your car wasn’t roadworthy, and you’ll be footing the bill, not just for your Honda Fit but anything (or anyone) else involved.
Best Way to Get Back on the Road in Hamilton
Here’s the real advice: soon as you fail that inspection, book those repairs straight away. Bring your Nissan Leaf, your VW Touran, or whatever you’ve got – we see it all. We’ll get you sorted quick, and you’ll breeze through your free WOF recheck, no extra payments.
Every week we see people from places like Morrinsville, Cambridge and Rototuna – all coming in with that same “what now?” face after a failed WOF. Don’t stress. We’ve been sorting out NZ car problems in Hamilton for years, so you’re in good hands for car service or hybrid repair, summer or winter, rain or shine.