Expert advices

ROADWORTHINESS TEST : THE ESSENTIAL POINTS TO BE CHECKED TO AVOID A RE-TEST

More than 20% of the vehicles submitted for the roadworthiness test then have to undergo a re-test requiring repair. Indeed, since the roadworthiness test reform of 2019, 133 checkpoints are now included, which are themselves divided into 610 faults, 470 of which may require a re-test. Of these 470 faults, 341 faults are considered to be major and 129 critical.  

For this reason, before you take your vehicle for a roadworthiness test, we recommend that you review a few important checkpoints that will help you avoid a re-test.  

What are the essential points to check when submitting your vehicle for the roadworthiness test?

To help your vehicle pass its roadworthiness test, our experts have compiled a list of 8 checkpoints that you can easily check yourself.  

  • Checkpoint No. 1: vehicle identification (licence plates)

For this first step, simply check your front and rear licence plates to make sure they comply with current regulations. They must be legible, properly attached to the bodywork and tally with the information on your vehicle registration certificate.  

  • Checkpoint No. 2: road adherence (tyres)

First visually check your tyres to make sure that they have no cuts, deformations or bulges. You can check the wear of your tyres using the wear indicators in the tread grooves: the depth of the tread grooves must not be less than 1.6 mm. Finally, visually check that your tyre pressure is correct.

 

  • Checkpoint No. 3: the braking system

First check your vehicle’s brake fluid level. Then, if you notice that your vehicle swings to the right or left when the brake pedal is pressed when you are driving, this most likely means that your brake pads and discs are damaged. You will then have to change them before your roadworthiness test.  

 

  • Checkpoint No. 4: shock absorbers

To check the condition of your shock absorbers, look for oil stains that would indicate possible leakage from the system. Also check the shock absorber rod and body to make sure they are not distorted or corroded and check the fasteners for condition.

  • Checkpoint No. 5: visibility (windscreen and windows)

Check the condition of your windscreen and windows to make sure there are no cracks more than 30 cm long. Also make sure that your windscreen wipers are working properly and that your rear-view mirrors and demister are properly adjusted.  

  • Checkpoint No. 6: lighting and indicators

To ensure that your lighting system is in proper condition, check all your lights:  

  • front sidelights,
  • dipped-beam headlights,
  • main-beam headlights,
  • brake lights,
  • 3rd brake light,
  • hazard warning lights,
  • turn indicator lights, licence plate illumination
  • rear and side reflectors.

At the same time, make sure the horn and dashboard lights are working properly. For simplicity, do not hesitate to ask someone to help you.

 

  • Checkpoint No. 7: exhaust system

Your exhaust pipe tells you about your vehicle’s pollution level. If your vehicle emits black smoke when you start the engine, we recommend using an engine additive that can be poured directly into the fuel tank. If the problem persists, have your vehicle checked by a professional. Also, make sure your exhaust pipe has no leaks and is properly secured.

  • Checkpoint No. 8: passenger compartment equipment

The last checkpoint that you can easily perform relates to the interior equipment. For this purpose, make sure that your seats are properly secured and are working properly, and check the seat belts. If you have a baby seat, remember to remove it so as not to hinder the tester. 

Finally, remember to check the engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid and windscreen washer fluid levels to maximise your vehicle’s chances of passing the roadworthiness test.  

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