Top Reasons Cars Fail Roadworthy Inspections (and How to Avoid Them)
If you’re planning to sell your car, transfer registration, or simply ensure your vehicle is legally roadworthy in Australia, passing a Roadworthy Inspection is crucial. While many cars pass the inspection with minor fixes, others fail due to overlooked issues. Knowing what inspectors look for can save you time, money, and hassle.
At Tiny’s Mechanical Services Capalaba, we’ve conducted hundreds of roadworthy inspections, and these are the top five reasons vehicles typically don’t make the cut:
🔧 1. Faulty Brakes
Why It Fails: Brake performance is one of the most important safety aspects. If your brake pads are worn out, discs are damaged, or the handbrake doesn’t hold, your car will not pass.
How to Avoid It:
- Listen for squeaking or grinding noises.
- Have your brake pads checked regularly.
- Ensure your handbrake engages properly on an incline.
💡 2. Worn or Damaged Tyres
Why It Fails: Tyres that have less than 1.5mm tread depth or visible cracks, bulges, or uneven wear patterns won’t pass inspection.
How to Avoid It:
- Check your tyre tread depth using a coin or tread gauge.
- Rotate tyres regularly and maintain proper wheel alignment.
💡 3. Faulty Lights or Electrical Issues
Why It Fails: If any of your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, or interior lights don’t work, it’s an automatic fail.
How to Avoid It:
- Do a quick walk-around light check before the inspection.
- Replace any blown globes and ensure lenses are clean and secure.
🚘 4. Suspension and Steering Problems
Why It Fails: Worn suspension components or loose steering can affect handling and safety. Common issues include leaking shock absorbers, worn ball joints, or unresponsive steering.
How to Avoid It:
- Get suspension inspected at every major service.
- Pay attention to unusual noises or a rough ride.
🔍 5. Windscreen and Visibility Issues
Why It Fails: A cracked windscreen in the driver’s field of vision or worn-out wipers will result in a fail. Poor visibility is a major safety risk.
How to Avoid It:
- Replace cracked or chipped windscreens early.
- Ensure your wipers work effectively and washer fluid is topped up.
✅ Bonus Tips to Pass Your Roadworthy Inspection
- Ensure seatbelts are fully functional and not frayed.
- Remove any oil leaks before inspection.
- Make sure mirrors, horn, and battery are in good working order.
- Don’t ignore dashboard warning lights.
🧰 Book Your Roadworthy Inspection with Confidence
At Tiny’s Mechanical Services Capalaba, we offer trusted roadworthy certificate inspections and can help fix any issues that may cause your car to fail. Our experienced technicians ensure your vehicle meets all Queensland safety standards — fast and hassle-free.
📞 Ready to Get Roadworthy?
Contact Tiny’s Mechanical Services today to schedule your inspection and keep your car legal, safe, and ready for the road.
