View Electra's stories

WoF vs CoF

Don't know the difference between a WoF (Warrant of Fitness) or a CoF (Certificate of Fitness)?  Which one does your vehicle need?

Here's our little flow diagram to get you started:

 

 

Passenger service and rental vehicles include taxis, shuttles, buses, rental cars, campervans, and motorcycles.

[If your vehicle is modified you may also need other documentation/inspections before your CoF or WoF is issued.  CoF vehicles also need a certificate of loading, road user charges licence for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes (3500kg) or if powered by diesel or another fuel not taxed when sold, and an approved hubodometer for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes (3500kg).]

 

Here is what a check covers:

WoF

  • tyre condition
  • brake operation
  • structural condition
  • lights
  • glazing
  • windscreen washers and wipers
  • doors
  • safety belts
  • airbags (if fitted)
  • speedometer
  • steering and suspension
  • exhaust
  • fuel system

CoF

  • tyre condition
  • brake condition and operation
  • structural condition
  • towing connection condition and certification
  • load restraints such as load anchorages, log bolsters, or curtain systems for condition and applicable certification
  • certificate of loading
  • transport service licence number (if required)
  • lights 
  • glazing 
  • windscreen washers and wipers
  • doors 
  • safety belts 
  • airbags (if fitted)
  • speedometer
  • steering and suspension
  • exhaust 
  • fuel system

 

An authorised agent of New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) can issue a WoF or CoF. While I hoped that I could give a specific link to a Yellow Pages search there is no comprehensive term that results in all of the supposed 3200 agents that NZTA say there are so the link is for some that do WoFs.  Most mechanics will issue WoFs and set their cost currently around $50.

Not all agencies can do a CoF. CoFs are able to be issued by the the Automobile Association (AA), Vehicle Inspection New Zealand (VINZ), and Vehicle Testing New Zealand (VTNZ).  CoFs are required every 6 months and cost around $150.

 

WoF durations however have just been reviewed as at July 2014:

 

NZTA advise that a WoF or CoF are not the same as a pre-purchase check as there are some additional items you might want to check if you were buying a vehicle.  [So far I have only found businesses that will do a check on a light vehicle not a heavy one. If you find otherwise please let us know and we will update our information.]

 

YOU ARE REQUIRED TO KEEP YOUR VEHICLE UP TO WARRANTABLE OR CERTIFIABLE STANDARDS

AT ALL TIMES NOT JUST FOR CHECKS.