Fast, Friendly, Masterton WoF Inspections

Tom’s Autos provides WOF inspections in Masterton with NZTA-approved inspectors, onsite repairs, modern workshop equipment, and friendly local service. Whether your vehicle needs a routine Warrant of Fitness inspection, repairs following a failed WOF, or general servicing, our team is here to help.

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5 NZTA approved WoF Inspectors
Locally owned and operated since 1977
MTA Assured workshop
Repairs completed onsite
Loan cars available

$79 Vehicle WoF

As a driver, it is your job to keep your vehicle up to WoF condition at all times. For example, while tyres on your vehicle may pass on the day of your warrant inspection, you’ll need to replace them as soon as the tread gets to the minimum depth. If you wait until the next inspection before replacing them, you increase your risk of having a crash, not being covered by insurance or receiving a fine.

How Often is a WoF Required

Vehicles first registered anywhere in the world on or after 1 Janurary 2000 will need annual WoF Inspections for their lifetime. If they are registered before this date, they require 6 monthly WoF Inspections.

For new vehicles, after an initial inspection, another WoF Inspection wont be required until the 3rd anniversary of their first registration.

It's Illegal to Drive a Vehicle:

If it doesn't meet WoF requirements.
If it doesn't display a valid WoF label.

You can drive your vehicle on the road under these circumstances only when taking it somewhere for repair or to get a new WoF AND providing it’s safe to do so.

What a WoF Inspection Covers:

The WoF inspection is a general safety check. The aspects checked are set out in our Vehicle inspection requirements manual (VIRM) and include:

Tyre condition (including tread depth)
Brake operation
Structural condition (rust is not allowed in certain areas)
lights
Glazing (is your windscreen safe?)
Windscreen washers and wipers
Doors (do they open and close safely?)
safety belts (must not be damaged or overly faded; buckles must work properly)
airbags (if fitted)
Speedometer (must be working)
Steering and suspension (must be safe and secure)
exhaust (there must be no leaks and the exhaust must not be smoky or louder than the original exhaust system)
Fuel system (there must be no leaks).
If you’ve modified your car, motorcycle, van or other light vehicle you may need a low volume vehicle certificate.

What a Warrant is Not:

A WoF is not a pre-purchase inspection. It doesn’t include many areas of a vehicle's condition. For example it doesn't check:

Engine, clutch, gearbox and differential condition
Lubricant levels and condition
Brake pad thickness or life expectancy, unless they are visibly below safe limits
Paint work condition and some rust in non-structural areas.

When your Vehicle Fails its WoF Inspection:

If your vehicle fails a WOF inspection you cannot drive it on the road unless you’re taking it somewhere to get it repaired or get a new WoF – and it’s safe to do so. Your vehicle also may not be covered by your insurance if it doesn't have a current WOF or is not up to WOF standard (e.g. tyres are below legal tread depth).

If a vehicle fails a WoF inspection, there is no fee for any subsequent inspection as long as it is done:

within 28 days of the first inspection where the vehicle failed, and
at the same inspecting organisation

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WoF FAQ's

How Long Does A WOF Take?

A standard WOF inspection usually takes around 45min to 1 hour, depending on workshop workload and the condition of the vehicle. If repairs are required, additional time may be needed. We recommend booking ahead where possible.

What Happens If My Car Fails Its WOF?

If your vehicle fails its WOF inspection, we’ll explain what items need attention and provide advice or an estimate for repairs if required. Once repairs are completed, the vehicle can be rechecked for compliance.

Can You Repair Failed Items Onsite?

Yes — our workshop can usually carry out WOF-related repairs onsite. From tyres and brakes through to suspension, steering, lighting, diagnostics, and general repairs, our qualified technicians can help get your vehicle safely back on the road.

How Often Do I Need A WOF?

WOF requirements in New Zealand vary depending on the age of your vehicle:

New vehicles receive an initial WOF valid for 3 years
Vehicles first registered on or after 1 January 2000 generally require a WOF every 12 months
Vehicles first registered before 1 January 2000 generally require a WOF every 6 months
Some vintage vehicles 40 years and older may qualify for annual inspections

If you’re unsure when your next WOF is due, our team can help.

Can I Drive With An Expired WOF?

Driving without a current WOF is illegal unless you are driving the vehicle directly to a place for repair or inspection. More importantly, regular WOF inspections help ensure your vehicle remains safe for you, your passengers, and other road users.

Do EVs And Hybrids Still Require WOF Inspections?

Yes — EVs and hybrids still require regular WOF inspections just like petrol and diesel vehicles. While they may have fewer traditional engine components, items such as tyres, brakes, suspension, steering, lighting, and structural safety still need to meet NZTA safety standards.

Do I Need To Book?

Booking is recommended, especially during busy periods, to help minimise wait times and ensure availability. Feel free to call our team or book online.

How Much Does A WOF Cost?

WOF pricing can vary depending on vehicle type and any additional inspection requirements. Please contact our team for current pricing and availability.

What Should I Check Before My WOF?

A few simple checks before your inspection can help improve your chances of passing first time:

Check all lights are working
Ensure tyres have legal tread depth
Make sure seatbelts are functioning correctly
Check windscreen wipers and washers
Ensure mirrors are secure
Listen for unusual noises or warning lights
Make sure your vehicle is generally clean and accessible for inspection

If you’re unsure about anything, feel free to ask our team before your booking.