Preparing your vehicle for an inspection in Melbourne doesn’t have to be stressful—yet many car owners panic when the time comes. Whether you’re selling your car, registering a used vehicle, or driving for a rideshare platform, passing a vehicle inspection is crucial for legal compliance and road safety.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: what inspectors check, how to prepare, what documentation you need, and how to improve your chances of passing the inspection the first time.
Understanding Vehicle Inspections in Melbourne
🔹 What Is a Vehicle Inspection?
A vehicle inspection is a formal evaluation of a vehicle’s roadworthiness, safety standards, and compliance with local laws. In Melbourne, these inspections are typically required for:
- Selling or transferring a vehicle
- Re-registering an unregistered vehicle
- Registering a vehicle from another state
- Operating commercial or rideshare vehicles
Inspections ensure your car is safe not only for you but also for other road users.
🔹 Types of Inspections in Melbourne
- Roadworthy Certificate (RWC): Required when selling or transferring a vehicle.
- Pre-purchase Inspection: Often done by buyers to assess a used car’s condition.
- Commercial Vehicle Safety Check: Mandatory for taxis, rideshare, and delivery vehicles.
🔹 Who Can Conduct These Inspections?
Only VicRoads-licensed vehicle testers are authorised to issue Roadworthy Certificates. These can be:
- Fixed-location workshops (mechanic garages)
- Mobile vehicle inspectors (come to your home or workplace)
Always ensure the provider is licensed and approved by VicRoads.
Pre-Inspection Checklist — What to Check and Fix
Passing your inspection starts with preparation. Here’s a thorough checklist to get your vehicle ready:
🔹 Tyres and Wheels
- Minimum tread depth: 1.5mm across the entire surface
- No cuts, bulges, or uneven wear
- All tyres (including the spare) must be roadworthy
- Wheels must be undamaged and properly aligned
🔹 Lights and Electrical System
- All external lights (headlights, brake lights, indicators) must function
- Number plate lights must illuminate
- Dashboard warning lights should not stay on after ignition
- Test the horn, wipers, and interior lights
🔹 Brakes and Suspension
- Brake pads must have sufficient material
- Rotors should be free of grooves or damage
- Handbrake must hold the vehicle on an incline
- No clunking or bouncing when driving (indicates suspension issues)
🔹 Engine and Fluid Leaks
- Check for oil, coolant, brake, or transmission fluid leaks
- Battery should be securely mounted and not leaking
- Engine should start smoothly without excessive noise
🔹 Windscreen and Wipers
- No chips or cracks in the driver’s line of sight
- Wiper blades should clear water efficiently
- Washer jets must spray properly
🔹 Mirrors and Windows
- Mirrors must be securely mounted and not cracked
- Power windows should open/close smoothly
- Tinted windows must meet legal standards
🔹 Seats and Seatbelts
- Seatbelts must retract fully and lock when pulled sharply
- Seats must be firmly anchored with functional adjustments
Documentation You’ll Need
Don’t overlook paperwork—it’s just as important as your vehicle’s mechanical condition.
🔹 Vehicle Logbook or Service History
- Helps inspectors verify maintenance history
- Builds trust if you’re selling the car
🔹 Proof of Ownership
- Title papers, purchase receipts, or transfer documents
🔹 Driver’s License and Forms
- Your current driver’s license
- Any VicRoads application forms required for re-registration or sale
Cleanliness and Presentation Tips
Appearances do matter! A clean, well-maintained car makes a positive impression.
🔹 Exterior Cleanliness
- Wash and dry the car before inspection
- Remove any dirt from lights, license plates, and wheel wells
🔹 Interior Cleanliness
- Vacuum seats and carpets
- Remove rubbish or clutter
- Wipe down the dashboard, steering wheel, and gear lever
🔹 Undercarriage and Engine Bay
- Remove mud or oil buildup
- Consider degreasing the engine for a cleaner look
Should You Get a Pre-Inspection Service?
Getting a pre-inspection from your regular mechanic before the official one can help identify and fix minor issues.
🔹 Benefits of a Pre-RWC Check
- Prevents last-minute surprises
- Gives you time to schedule and budget for repairs
🔹 Cost vs Value
While a pre-check may cost around $100–$150, it could save you from multiple reinspection fees or serious repair costs later.
Where to Go — Trusted Inspection Locations in Melbourne
🔹 Fixed Workshop Testers
- Ideal for thorough inspections with hoists and diagnostic tools
- Often located in suburbs like Dandenong, Thomastown, or Footscray
🔹 Mobile Vehicle Inspectors
- Convenient if your schedule is tight
- Available throughout Greater Melbourne
- Must be licensed to issue RWCs
🔹 How to Choose the Right Inspector
- Check Google reviews and ratings
- Ask about their VicRoads accreditation
- Inquire about fees, timelines, and what’s included
Day of Inspection — What to Expect
Knowing what happens during the inspection can ease anxiety.
🔹 How Long Does It Take?
- Standard inspections take 30–60 minutes
- Complex cases may require longer or multiple visits
🔹 Common Failure Points
- Bald tyres
- Oil leaks
- Faulty lights
- Worn brakes
- Cracked windscreens
🔹 What If You Fail the Inspection?
- You’ll receive a rejection report
- You have 14 days to fix the issues and get a reinspection
- Additional fees may apply
After the Inspection — What’s Next?
🔹 If You Pass
- You’ll receive a Roadworthy Certificate valid for 30 days
- Use it to register or sell the vehicle
- For rideshare/commercial vehicles, keep it on file for compliance checks
🔹 If You Fail
- Review the rejection report thoroughly
- Fix the faults with a qualified mechanic
- Book a reinspection within the 14-day window
Conclusion: Drive Prepared, Drive Safe
Preparing your vehicle inspection in Melbourne by RideCheck is all about attention to detail. A well-maintained car not only ensures a smooth inspection but also enhances safety, fuel efficiency, and resale value.
Whether you’re registering a used car, selling it, or just making sure everything’s road-ready, taking the time to check tyres, lights, brakes, and documentation will pay off. When in doubt, get a pre-inspection done by a trusted mechanic. It could be the difference between passing the first time—or costly delays.
Stay proactive, stay safe—and pass with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does a vehicle inspection take in Melbourne?
A standard vehicle inspection usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the type of vehicle and its condition.
2. What is checked during a roadworthy inspection in Victoria?
Key components such as brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, lights, seatbelts, windscreen, and mirrors are inspected to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive.
3. Can I fail an inspection for a dirty car?
While not a formal reason for failure, excessive dirt or clutter can hide faults and give a poor impression. Clean your car to avoid unnecessary delays.
4. How much does a roadworthy certificate cost in Melbourne?
The cost typically ranges from $150 to $250, depending on the provider. Repairs, if needed, are charged separately.
5. Can I drive my car without a roadworthy certificate?
Only for limited purposes, such as driving to the inspection location. Otherwise, it’s illegal to drive an unregistered or unroadworthy vehicle.
6. Do mobile inspectors issue valid certificates?
Yes, as long as the inspector is licensed by VicRoads, they can issue official Roadworthy Certificates on-site.
7. What’s the difference between a pre-purchase and a roadworthy inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection is more detailed, including cosmetic and performance checks. A roadworthy inspection focuses solely on safety and legal compliance.
8. When should I schedule the inspection?
Ideally, 1–2 weeks before you need the certificate. This leaves time for any repairs and potential reinspections.
9. Can I do the inspection myself?
You can do a pre-check, but only VicRoads-licensed testers can conduct and certify a formal inspection.
10. What are the most common reasons for failing an inspection?
Worn-out tyres, brake issues, leaking fluids, and faulty lights top the list of common failure points.
