Replaces Infosheet 1.81 Replacement parts

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in determining compliance of a vehicle.

Application

This document applies to any vehicle undergoing entry-level certification that has had parts, components or systems replaced during a repair or modification.

Safety concern

Vehicles entering New Zealand must have been manufactured to comply with required safety standards. Compliance with these standards ensures that a safety critical component will perform as intended. Vehicles and their systems, parts and components must remain within safe tolerance of their state when manufactured. This helps to ensure the safety of vehicles used on New Zealand roads.

Use of correct replacement parts is vital to achieving safe tolerance. A vehicle must continue to comply with safety standards and equipment requirements when it is repaired, or components are added or replaced.

Inspection

Vehicle inspectors must check whether or not the component being replaced has to meet an approved standard. Standards will vary according to the vehicle’s year of manufacture (and any modifications). The replacement part must meet the same standard as the original part, or a later version. Examples include lights, tyres, seatbelts and glazing.

If there is no specific standard for the individual component, but there is a standard for the system the component is a part of, the vehicle inspector must ensure that any replacement parts used enable the system to continue to meet the standard, and return the vehicle to safe tolerance of its state when manufactured. Examples include brake systems, frontal impact protection systems and seatbelt anchorage attachment points.

Braking systems: Brake pads and shoes are critical components in relation to returning the braking system to within safe tolerance of its state when manufactured.

Frontal impact protection systems: It is important that structural panel replacement is carried out using complying parts and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions (or, where these are not available, alternative repair industry standards such as I-Car). Replacement panels and welding must duplicate the original structure.

Seatbelt anchorages: Any repairs of the body or components affecting the supporting structure for seatbelt anchorages must restore these items to their original strength.

If there is no specific standard for the component or the system of which the component is a part, components must be fit for purpose. This generally applies to older vehicles, although there are components that are important to the safety of a vehicle but are not covered by a prescribed standard in new vehicles. Examples include steering and suspension components.

Recommendation

The NZ Transport Agency recommends that parts suppliers and repairers must be able to provide proof that replacement parts meet legal requirements. This could consist of de-registration papers of the donor vehicle for used body parts, standards markings, or proof that the vehicle used for parts was legally registered in New Zealand.

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002, section 11.1
• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Repair 1998

Application

• This document applies to any vehicle undergoing entry-level (including re-entry) certification that may have suffered water or fire damage.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in determining vehicle class as defined in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Introduction 5-5: Identifying vehicle class.

Application

This bulletin applies to vehicles undergoing entry certification in New Zealand that have been modified in such a way that the class of vehicle may have changed from when it was manufactured.

Inspection

Step one

The vehicle inspector must determine the original class of the vehicle, as it was manufactured.

Step two

The vehicle inspector must determine whether or not the vehicle complied with legal requirements for entering service in New Zealand, in its original condition (as manufactured).

If the vehicle did not comply with New Zealand legal requirements when it was manufactured, it cannot be certified for entry into New Zealand as another vehicle class.

• For example, an MA class vehicle that did not comply with a frontal impact standard could not be certified as an NA class vehicle.

Step three

If the vehicle complied with New Zealand legal requirements in its original condition, the vehicle inspector must determine whether or not the modified vehicle complies with legal requirements for vehicles operating in-service in New Zealand.

If a vehicle has modifications that exceed the low volume vehicle (LVV) or heavy vehicle thresholds, it must undergo LVV or HVS certification according to its new class, or be re-configured back to manufacturer’s specifications.

Step four

The vehicle should be recorded in LANDATA as its new class. A note must be added to the vehicle record, stating that vehicle modifications have resulted in a change of class (and identify the previous class).

Application

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in identifying a Honda Gyro to determine applicable inspection requirements.

A Honda Gyro is a three-wheeled vehicle which requires design compliance and must be declared as a motorcycle by the NZTA in order to be registered for in-service operation in New Zealand.

Identification

The New Zealand representative of Blue Wing Honda has advised the NZTA that Honda agents identify the Honda Gyro by its frame number.

It can also be recognised by the distinctive articulating joint that allows the whole front passenger portion of the vehicle to pivot and tilt when cornering.

A Honda Gyro:

• has one wheel at the front and two wheels at the rear, and
• has a mass not exceeding one tonne, and
• has an engine output exceeding 2kW (or 50ml), and
• has a maximum speed capability exceeding 50km/h.

Therefore, a Honda Gyro can be classed as an LE1 vehicle under Table A of Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002.

For registration purposes, the Honda Gyro is a vehicle type 11 (motorcycle).

Inspection

If a vehicle presented for entry certification is identified as a Honda Gyro, it must be declared a motorcycle by the NZTA. Applications must be made to:

Vehicle Standards
NZ Transport Agency
Private Bag 6995
Wellington 6141

Attention: Senior Engineer, Vehicles Standards team

An LT4085 Vehicle compliance certificate must be completed for the vehicle. It must meet entry-level certification requirements for class LE1 vehicles and undergo periodic in-service inspections (warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness).

To operate and inspect the vehicle, the vehicle inspector must hold a motorcycle licence.

Application

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors carrying out entry-level inspections on vehicles imported for temporary use on New Zealand roads.

Requirements for temporarily importing a vehicle

A temporary vehicle import is a vehicle brought into New Zealand by a resident of another country, usually for a maximum of 12 months, while remaining registered in its country of origin.

The vehicle must be exported from New Zealand within the allowed temporary entry period.

Before a vehicle is released to its owner, it must be inspected by the Quarantine Service of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF).

The vehicle must be licensed in New Zealand as an overseas visitor’s vehicle. In addition, the vehicle’s registration in its country of origin must remain current for the duration of its stay in New Zealand, and must remain in the name of the person who imported the vehicle into New Zealand. The overseas registration plates must remain on the vehicle; it does not need New Zealand plates.

When presenting a temporary import, the vehicle importer must:

• fill out an Application for registration of an overseas visitor’s vehicle (form MR2C)
• provide proof that the vehicle is currently registered in his/her name in its country of origin (eg by providing original vehicle registration documents)
• show a carnet de passage or temporary import entry
• provide identification that shows his/her name, date of birth and signature
• pay an Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) levy (but none of the other registration and licensing fees).

A temporarily imported vehicle does not need to meet New Zealand’s requirements for entry certification. However, an entry certifier must carry out a basic safety inspection before issuing a warrant of fitness (WoF) or certificate of fitness (CoF) label for the vehicle.

Background

In 1958, New Zealand became a contracting state of the Geneva Convention. The Convention on road traffic was signed in September 1949. This convention developed several provisions to promote the safety of international traffic, outlined below.

Generally speaking, the vehicle does not need to comply with New Zealand approved standards, or requirements for specialist certification (eg low volume vehicle certification for modifications). It must at least comply with the provisions of the Geneva Convention. It should meet the basic safety requirements for condition and performance listed in the VIRM: In-service certification.

Applicable legislation

Geneva Convention Chapter IV – Provisions applicable to motor vehicles and trailers in international traffic.

Article 22: Every motor vehicle and trailer must be in good working order and safe mechanical condition so as not to endanger the driver or vehicle occupants or other road users, or cause damage to public or private property. Inspection - Brake requirements for temporarily imported group M and N vehicles.

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle must be fitted with a service brake capable of slowing the vehicle and bringing it to a controlled stop under any conditions of loading, on any gradient that the vehicle may be operated on, in an efficient, safe and rapid way.

2. A vehicle must be fitted with a parking brake capable of bringing the vehicle to a controlled stop if the service brake fails.

Condition and performance

3. The brakes fitted to a vehicle must be capable of acting on at least half of the wheels, and brake performance must be balanced on each side of the longitudinal axis of the vehicle.

4. At least half of the braking devices must act on braking surfaces directly attached to the wheels (or through parts not liable to fail).

5. Braking surfaces must be in good condition, and must always be connected with the wheels of the vehicle in such a way that it is not possible to disconnect them, other than momentarily by means of clutch, gearbox or free wheel.

6. The parking brake must be readily applicable and capable of remaining applied for an indefinite period even in the absence of the driver.

Braking requirements for temporarily imported group L vehicles

Mandatory equipment

1. A group L vehicle must be fitted with two braking devices operated by hand or foot, capable of slowing the vehicle and bringing it to a controlled stop in an efficient, safe and rapid way.

Brake requirements for temporarily imported trailers

Mandatory equipment

1. A combination of a motor vehicle and one or more trailers must be fitted with a braking device capable of slowing the vehicle and bringing it to a controlled stop under any conditions of loading, on any gradient that the vehicle may be operated on, in an efficient, safe and rapid way. A trailer must have a braking device that acts on at least half of the wheels, balanced on each side of the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, as follows:

a) The braking device for a class TA or TB trailer may operate as an overrun braking device (ie the trailer is stopped by moving upon the stopped towing vehicle).

b) The braking device for a class TC or TD trailer must be capable of being operated when the service brake of the towing vehicle is applied.

2. The braking device must be capable of preventing the rotation of the wheels when the trailer is uncoupled.

3. A trailer fitted with a braking device must be equipped with a breakaway brake (Note 1).

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle exterior – 2-1 External projections: Reasons for rejection 1 and 2.

Application

This bulletin applies to class MA, MB or MC vehicles fitted with auxiliary bars (eg bullbars) undergoing entry certification in New Zealand. Auxiliary bars fitted to any class of vehicle may affect compliance with requirements for external projections and/or frontal impact systems.

Safety concern

Fitting auxiliary bars to vehicles with frontal impact protection systems may have a negative effect on the performance of frontal impact protection features, such as airbags or crush-zones.

Inspection

If auxiliary bars are fitted to any vehicle, the risk of injury to others must be minimised. This means that the vehicle must comply with the requirements for condition, performance and modification set out in the VIRM: In-service certification, section 2-1.

A vehicle inspector may refuse to certify a vehicle that is fitted with an auxiliary bar if he/she believes that it is likely to cause injury or affect the driver’s control of the vehicle.

Auxiliary bars fitted to Mitsubishi RVRs

NZ Transport Agency has been advised by Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand that the following Mitsubishi RVR models were factory-fitted with auxiliary bullbars:

If a vehicle inspector is presented with a vehicle from one of these model ranges fitted with an original equipment (OE) bullbar, the vehicle may be passed.

The following Mitsubishi RVR models were not factory-fitted with bullbars:

If a vehicle inspector is presented with a vehicle from one of these model ranges fitted with a bullbar, confirmation that the bullbar will not affect the vehicle’s frontal impact compliance is required. If it cannot be supplied, the vehicle cannot pass the inspection until the bullbar has been removed.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle structure – 3-1 Structure, Reason for rejection 1
• Vehicle structure – 3-2 Determining frontal impact compliance.

Application

This bulletin applies to specific model ranges of class MA, MB or MC vehicles manufactured by Toyota Japan, Nissan Japan and Mazda/Ford Japan that are exempt from the requirement to meet a specified frontal impact vehicle standard under the New Zealand Gazette notice au3660.

Inspection

Vehicles manufactured by:

• Toyota Japan, in the Estima, Lucida or Emina families, and
• Nissan Japan, in the Serena or Largo families, and
• Mazda/Ford Japan, in the Bongo, Friendee or Freda families

are exempt from the requirement to meet an approved frontal impact standard (as specified in Table 3-2-1 of the VIRM: Entry certification) if the vehicle’s chassis number is included in the ranges identified below.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle structure – 3-1 Structure, Reason for rejection 1
• Vehicle structure – 3-2 Determining frontal impact compliance.

Application

This bulletin applies to the frontal impact compliance requirements of Mitsubishi model vehicles undergoing entry certification in New Zealand.

Inspection

It has been determined that the following Mitsubishi models are class MC vehicles, therefore, if a vehicle inspector is presented with a vehicle in the following model ranges, the vehicle is only required to comply with an approved frontal impact standard if it was manufactured on or after 1 October 2003.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle structure – 3-1 Structure, Reason for rejection 1
• Vehicle structure – 3-2 Determining frontal impact compliance.

Application

This bulletin applies to the frontal impact compliance requirements for Toyota Cavalier vehicles undergoing entry certification in New Zealand.

Inspection

Any vehicle that is a Toyota Cavalier of model code TJG00 with a model year of 1996, 1997 or 1998 is exempt from the requirement to prove compliance with one of the approved frontal impact standards specified in section 2.3(4) of Land Transport Rule: Frontal Impact 2001.

The model year of Toyota Cavaliers can be determined by decoding the tenth character of the vehicle identification number (VIN).

The frontal impact compliance status of Toyota Cavalier vehicles, as understood by the NZTA, is described below.

Reference

General vehicles:

• 3-1 Structure
• 7-1 Seats and seat anchorages
• 7-5 Seatbelt and seatbelt anchorages

Safety concern

There is concern about corrosion that can occur in Nissan Terrano or Nissan Mistral vehicles of the type whose rear floorpan assembly consists of a two-layer (double-skin) panel. If moisture gets trapped between the two layers of the floorpan, corrosion can occur around the seat or seatbelt anchorages, affecting their integrity. Corrosion can also occur where the under-floor reinforcing panel overlaps the top floor skin.

Clarification

The rear floorpan assembly consists of a two-layer (double-skin) panel. The lower layer is a reinforcing panel spot-welded to the upper layer floor section.

The Terrano has a rear seat with three seating positions. Situated in the rear floor, beneath the seat, are four seatbelt anchorages and two seat anchorages.

The Mistral has a stressed bench seat in the rear (the seatbelts are attached to the seat) with two seat anchorages in the floor and two seatbelt anchorages in the wheel well at the sides of the seat.

Inspection

The inspector must lift the rear seat to examine this area effectively. Any carpet and sound insulating material covering the panel that the seats are mounted on must be pulled back far enough to expose the rear seam of the panel (the area most commonly affected by corrosion). It is important to note that damage may be more extensive than can be detected during this inspection.

The vehicle must fail if any signs of corrosion are detected during the inspection, such as:

• bubbling of the paint or surface irregularities in the top floor skin or paint
• a patch repair that has rust around it
• separation of the reinforcement panel and the top skin
• discolouration or rust stains at the edges of the reinforcement panel
• rust holes, or
• the floorpan on a Nissan Terrano has been ‘patch’ repaired after 8 January 1997, or
• the floorpan on a Nissan Mistral has been ‘patch’ repaired after 10 November 2003.

A vehicle that has been ‘patch’ repaired before 8 January 1997 (Nissan Terrano) or 10 November 2003 (Nissan Mistral) may pass the inspection provided that:

• no signs of corrosion are apparent, and
• there is evidence that the repairs were carried out before the above dates, and
• the vehicle inspector considers, or there is evidence provided by a qualified panel beater, that the repair is effective and in sound condition.

Repair options

If any corrosion is detected and the vehicle failed, the floorpan must be replaced.

However, for the following models the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association (LVVTA) has provided an alternative option to floorpan replacement.

Nissan Terrano Model D21

• installation of the LVVTA rear floor load-bar seatbelt anchorage reinforcement system together with a Low Volume Vehicle certification plate containing the following words in the Body/chassis field: LVVTA ‘Rear floor load-bar seatbelt anchorage reinforcement system’.

Nissan Mistral Model R20 5-door

• installation of the LVVTA rear floor load-bar seatbelt anchorage reinforcement system together with a Low Volume Vehicle certification plate containing the following words in the Body/chassis field: ‘LVVTA Rear floor load-bar seatbelt anchorage reinforcement system’.

For information about these seatbelt anchorage modifications, and for a list of the LVV certifiers who can certify them, see www.lvvta.org.nz.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle structure – 3-3 Inspection specifications.

Application

This bulletin applies to the structural inspection of motorhomes undergoing entry certification in New Zealand. It covers the specialist certification requirements for motorhomes undergoing entry certification.

For motorhomes with overseas compliance covering the motorhome conversion, refer to Technical bulletin 41:Entry certification procedures for certain modified vehicles. Exhaust emission standard compliance can be verified by one of the methods specified in Technical Bulletin 28.

Inspection location

A light new or used motor home can be inspected at an approved heavy (used) entry site, provided that:

• It is inspected by an approved ULE Vehicle Inspector
• There is a VIN embosser on site
• There is an exhaust emission tester on site (Used Vehicle).

Structural inspection

Parallel-imported new (campervan/motorhome)

New parallel-imported (campervan/motorhome) as defined in the entry VIRM (see 2-2 Vehicle attributes definitions).

• Trim does not need to be removed as part of the structural inspection if a vehicle is a new parallel-imported (campervan/motorhome). However, a full general inspection must be carried out. The vehicle inspector may require an invasive structural inspection if any areas of concern are identified during the general inspection.
• Any vehicle identified as damaged during a border inspection will require a full invasive structural inspection.

Used light vehicles (campervan/motorhome) Category 1

A previously registered vehicle under 12 months old and having travelled less than 2000 kms.

• Interior trim does not need to be removed as part of the structural inspection if the vehicle:
  • is a previously registered vehicle under 12 months old, and
  • has travelled less than 2000 kms, and
  • has not been identified as damaged during a border inspection.

  However, an under body invasive inspection (front inner guard covers fitted to monocoque construction vehicles and front sub-frame splash guards) and full general inspection must be carried out. The vehicle inspector may require an invasive interior structural inspection if any areas of concern are identified during the general inspection.

• If a motorhome is of a cab/chassis body type with the body mounted on the chassis, the vehicle inspector is only required to visually inspect the vehicle (without disassembly) to ensure general safety requirements are met. However, the vehicle inspector may require an invasive interior structural inspection if any areas of concern are identified during the general inspection.

• A Used light vehicles (campervan/motorhome) Category 1 vehicle identified as damaged during a border inspection will require a full invasive structural inspection.

Used (previously registered)

If a motorhome is of a van body type (monocoque construction), it will need the trim removed to enable a full structural inspection. If this is impracticable, the entry certifier/vehicle owner may apply to the Transport Agency for an exemption from trim removal requirements (see Reference material 18).

If a motorhome is of a cab/chassis body type with the body mounted on the chassis, the vehicle inspector is only required to visually inspect the vehicle (without disassembly) to ensure general safety requirements are met. However, if the motorhome body contains designated seating positions with certified seatbelt mountings (as is required for most motorhomes built after October 2003), it will need to have the trim removed to enable a full structural inspection. If this is impracticable, the entry certifier/vehicle owner may apply to the Transport Agency for an exemption from trim removal requirements (see Reference material 18).

Brakes

For new vehicles and scratch-built low volume vehicles, it is not necessary to disassemble any brake components.

For vehicles with rear drum brakes that are less than two years old and that have travelled less than 40,000km, only the front brakes must be disassembled initially. If the front brakes are up to standard, and there are no signs of problems with the rear brakes, disassembly of the rear brakes is not required.

Running gear

Due to the design and size of some campervans/motorhomes, the vehicle's steering and suspension can be inspected on:

• two-post vehicle hoist (with sufficient capacity)
• four-post vehicle hoist with built-in jacking mechanism (with sufficient capacity)
• inspection pit with built-in jacking mechanism (with sufficient capacity).

Specialist certification

Generally, any modifications or repairs to a motorhome that may affect the structural integrity of the vehicle will require specialist certification.

Where vehicles are converted to motorhomes, specialist certification is required unless the vehicle owner can provide documented evidence proving that the modification was a ‘manufacturer’s conversion’.

Examples of modifications or repairs to a motorhome that will normally require specialist certification are:

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Lighting – 4-4 Daytime running lamps: Reasons for rejection 1, 2 and 3.

Application

This bulletin applies to the lighting equipment (daytime running lamps in particular) fitted to vehicles undergoing entry certification in New Zealand.

Identifying daytime running lamps

When trying to identify daytime running lamps, it may help to check out the beam pattern, the light intensity, the wiring and any markings on the lens.

Beam pattern

For comparison, a fog lamp has a spread beam with a sharp horizontal cutoff and must be fitted in a dipped position.

Light intensity

Under UN/ECE and Australian Design Rules (ADR), a daytime running lamp is generally of low intensity (up to 800 cd max, compared with a headlamp high beam around 80,000–100,000 cd max). There is no hotspot but a blur of light that passes as a beam. The lamps are not required to be dipped, but must turn off when the headlamps are switched on.

Under FMVSS, existing forward-facing lamps (except side lamps and fog lamps) may operate as daytime running lamps. This means that daytime running lamps automatically turn on when the vehicle is started, but turn off when the headlamps are activated. Daytime running lamps fitted as separate lamps must have a light intensity between 500 and 3000 cd.

Wiring

Fog lamps are usually wired so they can operate independently of the headlamps, while daytime running lamps are usually wired so they turn off when the headlamps are switched on.

Markings

Some daytime running lamps may be marked in accordance with a standard (eg an ‘RL’ mark on UN/ECE- and some ADR-compliant lamps, and ‘DRL’ on FMVSS-compliant lamps).

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vision – 5-1 Glazing: Reasons for rejection 4 and 5.

Application

This document applies to house-trucks for the purpose of determining compliance with Land Transport Rule: Glazing, Windscreen Wipe and Wash, and Mirrors 1999 (the Glazing Rule).

Requirements

For this purpose, house-trucks should be considered goods vehicles of class NB or NC, depending on their gross vehicle mass (GVM).

Policy

Compliance with approved standards

House-trucks are usually modified vehicles. For example, they may consist of a cab and chassis that was manufactured in 1967, with a housing structure added to the rear in 1980. It is often difficult to determine when the modification took place. This makes it difficult to decide which date should be used to determine the applicable requirements – the year of manufacture of the original vehicle, or the year the modification was carried out.

The Glazing Rule defines year of manufacture as ‘the calendar year in which the construction of the vehicle was completed’.

The NZTA has determined that if any glazing is added or changed as part of the modification, this glazing must comply with requirements for vehicles manufactured at the time of the modification.

The vehicle owner must demonstrate when the modification was carried out.

Condition and performance

Leadlight windows fitted to a house truck are unlikely to comply with general safety requirements, which require glazing to be mechanically sound and strong.

In order to comply with general safety requirements, leadlight windows may be sandwiched between two panes of standard compliant glazing.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle interior – 7-1 Seats and seat anchorages: Reasons for rejection 1
• Vehicle interior – 7-5 Seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages: Reasons for rejection 1.

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages 2002. 

Application

This document applies to vehicles fitted with seats that can be rotated or placed to face other directions. Usually, this is to allow front occupants to face rear occupants while the vehicle is stationary.

Safety concern

Although it may be possible to have rotating seats (other than the driver’s seat) face rearward or sideways while traveling on a road, it is only permitted for such seats to be occupied if appropriate seatbelts are fitted.

Seatbelt requirements

Seatbelt requirements depend on the vehicle type, age, number of seats and the location of the seat in the vehicle.

Seats capable of being rotated or placed in other orientations are required to have seatbelts fitted appropriate to the orientation for normal use when the vehicle is travelling on the road (usually forward facing). If the seatbelt cannot be used due to the seat orientation, the seat must not be occupied while the vehicle is moving.

Advisory decals, easily visible to vehicle occupants, must be fitted inside the vehicle to indicate which seating orientations may (or may not) be used while the vehicle is moving.

• See Figure 1-1-1. Flowchart for determining seatbelt compliance for rotating seats

Figure 1-1-1. Flowchart for determining seatbelt compliance for rotating seats

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle interior – 7-1 Seats and seat anchorages: Reasons for rejection 1 and 2
• Vehicle interior – 7-5 Seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages: Reasons for rejection 1, 2 and 3.

Application

This bulletin applies to Toyota Hiace minivan models assembled in New Zealand with type-approved seating for eight passengers installed in the rear seating compartment, to bring the total seating capacity to 11 (10 if the vehicle is approved for passenger service vehicle use).

Toyota Hiace models with factory-installed seating

Table 15-1-1 shows a list provided by Toyota New Zealand of Hiace minibus model codes with factory-installed seating. The ‘local code’ denotes factory-installed seat and seatbelt assemblies.

The seats and seatbelts fitted in vehicles listed in Table 15-1-1 have all been tested and approved to comply with international standards. The seat and seatbelt assemblies for both CKD and CBU models were installed before the vehicles were delivered to dealers.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin only applies to vehicles that are required to comply with a frontal impact standard. It gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements:

• Vehicle interior – 7-5 Seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages: Reasons for rejection 2 and 5.

Application

This document applies to all frontal impact compliant vehicles that are required to have replacement seatbelts fitted as part of entry-level certification in New Zealand.

Inspection

General safety requirements state that seatbelts fitted to a vehicle must comply with requirements relating to condition, performance or modification as set out in the VIRM: In-service certification, section 7-5. If a seatbelt does not meet these conditions, it must be replaced. The replacement part must contain at least all of the features present in the original seatbelt, unless confirmation that fitment of a seatbelt without a certain feature would not affect the safety performance of the vehicle is available from the vehicle manufacturer.

If a vehicle is presented for entry certification, it can have an original equipment (OE) (or equivalent) seatbelt fitted as a replacement. This means that the only time a webbing clamp seatbelt would need to be fitted is if the failed OE seatbelt was a webbing clamp seatbelt.

Replacement seatbelts do not necessarily have to come from the vehicle manufacturer. If a seatbelt manufacturer can confirm that a particular seatbelt is suitable as replacement for a particular vehicle model (and the seatbelt complies with an approved standard), this seatbelt would also be acceptable.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle interior – 7-5 Seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages: Reasons for rejection 3 and 4

Application

This bulletin applies to heavy motor vehicles undergoing entry certification in New Zealand.

Inspection

Land Transport Rule: Seatbelts and Seatbelt Anchorages requires class NB and NC vehicles manufactured on or after 1 October 2003 to be fitted with seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages as follows:

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle interior – 7-5 Seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages: Reason for rejection 2.

Application

This bulletin applies to standards markings on seatbelts fitted to vehicles undergoing entry certification in New Zealand.

Clarification

Seatbelts must be labelled with an appropriate standards marking. This helps to determine compliance with an approved standard. Seatbelts may be marked with a code that indicates the type of retractor operation, such as ELR. Table 18-1-1 lists possible seatbelt markings and describes the type of retractor operation indicated by each marking.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements:

• VIRM: Entry certification, Vehicle interior – 7-5 Seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages: Reason for rejection 1 and 2
• VIRM: In-service certification, Tables 7-5-1 to 7-5-3.

Application

This document applies to all vehicles undergoing entry-level certification in New Zealand that are required to have seatbelts fitted.

Seatbelt exemptions

Under Land Transport Rule: Seatbelts and Seatbelt Anchorages 2002 and the New Zealand Gazette notice au2141 (dated 29 March 2001, page 781), vehicles fitted with certain occupant safety protection systems may be exempt from the requirement to have approved seatbelts of a specified type fitted, as defined in Land Transport Rule: Seatbelts and Seatbelt Anchorages 2002.

This exemption may apply to a vehicle that:

• complies with an approved frontal impact standard, or
• is fitted with airbags that are the manufacturer’s OE specifications, or
• has seatbelt features such as pretensioners or load limiters specifically designed to operate in conjunction with other parts of an integrated occupant protection system.

The exemption only applies to seatbelts fitted as part of the vehicle manufacturer’s OE specifications.

A list of specific seatbelt exemptions is available in the VIRM: In-service certification in Table 7-5-5. The VIRM: In-service certification also lists vehicles that may be exempt from specified seatbelt requirements, provided the vehicle was first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 1991.

Documentation

The inspecting organisation must retain a paper record of the exemption. This may be a note on the vehicle checksheet, or a paper exemption declaration.

A note must be recorded against the vehicle record in LANDATA stating that a single-sensitive seatbelt exemption has been issued.

Evidence of exemption

An entry certifier is required to provide the vehicle owner with evidence that the identified vehicle has been inspected and meets the criteria for a single-sensitive seatbelt exemption. This evidence may be a paper exemption (declaration) or a single-sensitive seatbelt exemption plate.

Paper exemptions

The declaration must be printed on the reverse of a copy of the New Zealand Gazette exemption notice au986. It must also contain the following information:

a) vehicle make, model, year of manufacture and VIN or chassis number, and

b) part numbers or identification numbers of the seatbelts in each sitting position, and

c) a statement declaring that the vehicle qualifies for and meets the conditions of the exemption, and

d) the date of issue, and

e) the vehicle inspector’s name, signature and contact details.

Sample seatbelt exemption declarations are shown in Reference materials 39 and 40.

Single-sensitive seatbelt exemption plate

A vehicle identification number (VIN) plate embossed with the text ‘SSBELTSOK’ followed by the last five digits of the VIN (see Figure 19-1-1) may be affixed to the front face of the right-hand B-pillar.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle interior – 7-5 Seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages: Reason for rejection 4.

Application

This bulletin applies to the standards compliance of rear upper original equipment (OE) seatbelt anchorages not fitted with seatbelts at the time of manufacture.

Safety concern

It is important that the strength of OE seatbelt anchorages meets the required anchorage strength of retrofitted seatbelts. To ensure that the OE seatbelt anchorages can securely anchor the type of seatbelts fitted, the vehicle inspector must determine that the OE seatbelt anchorage complies with an approved standard.

Inspection

When inspecting a vehicle fitted with an OE-installed rear upper seatbelt anchorage not fitted with a seatbelt at the time of manufacture, one of the following methods must be used to determine compliance with an approved standard:

a) a statement of compliance supplied by the vehicle manufacturer, which lists an approved seatbelt anchorage standard, or

b) if the vehicle is class MA, if it is listed in Table 4 of MoT St. 31391 (see Reference material 41), or

c) type-testing.

If evidence of compliance with an approved standard cannot be provided, the vehicle inspector must fail the vehicle.

In such cases, the vehicle owner may choose to:

• undergo low volume vehicle (LVV) certification of the seatbelt anchorages, or
• remove the seatbelts and seating.

Situation

Under Land Transport Rule: Frontal Impact Amendment 2008 and Land Transport Rule: Exhaust Emissions 2007, a vehicle that is of class MA or MC is not required to comply with an approved frontal impact standard or exhaust emissions standard if it is recognised as a dedicated motorsport vehicle.

Waka Kotahi and MotorSport New Zealand (MSNZ) have agreed on a process to allow a limited number of genuine dedicated motorsport vehicles to be imported and certified for use on New Zealand roads. These vehicles may participate in MSNZ-sanctioned events that have road stages requiring the vehicle to have a current WoF and registration. Such vehicles may be driven on the road to get to and from MSNZ events, and for servicing and certification. They are not for ‘daily driver’ use.

Application

This document applies to any used or parallel-imported vehicle dedicated to motorsport use that is undergoing entry certification in New Zealand, which:

• is a class MA or MC vehicle that does not meet an approved frontal impact and/or exhaust emissions standard, or
• is a left-hand drive vehicle that does not meet the requirements for importing a Category A left-hand drive vehicle, or
• was used for motorsport purposes in the country of origin, but was never registered there for use on the road, or
• is a new, purpose-built vehicle that has not been registered in the country of origin
• is an FIA Homologated Rally Car imported and used in the NZRC or international rally events providing the following requirements are met:

The car maintains complete compliance with its homologation papers and technical regulations at all times

The car must be used primarily for New Zealand Rally Championship events or International permitted events

The car must be inspected each year prior to Authority Card renewal

If the car fails to meet the above requirements, certification through LVVTA will be required.

Waka Kotahi acknowledges that the types of vehicle specified above will not meet some of the current vehicle standards and entry requirements.

People importing vehicles that fall into the above categories must be referred in the first instance to:

Technical Manager – MotorSport NZ
Phone 04 815 8015
Fax 04 472 9011
PO Box 3793

Wellington 6140

Email technical@motorsport.org.nz

Inspection

Flow diagram Figure 23-1-1 explains the procedure for processing an imported motorsport vehicle for entry certification.

Process A

Some imported motorsport vehicles may have been used but not previously registered. These vehicles will not meet the definition of a used import, but must be entered in LANDATA as used (>U<). The vehicle attributes for such vehicles should be recorded in LANDATA as follows:

Figure 23-1-2. Sample VIN screen

Notes must be entered against the vehicle record in LANDATA explaining the motorsport vehicle exemption category. For example, ‘MotorSport vehicle manufactured in 1999 used but never registered’.

Process B

Step 1 – Documentation

Dedicated motorsport vehicles must still meet all the relevant standards applicable to the vehicle (according to age, etc).

The VIRM: Entry certification manual details the standards a vehicle and its components are required to meet. See Inspection and certification Table 1-1-2 for methods to demonstrate compliance with required standards.

Where compliance with an approved standard can not be proven by these methods, the following methods are acceptable alternatives:

a) visual confirmation and recording of standards for items such as lighting, glazing, tyres and so on

b) low volume vehicle (LVV) certification for modified components, such as brakes, steering and suspension, not covered on the MotorSport NZ authority card

c) a MotorSport NZ authority card that includes at least frontal impact assessment

Left-hand drive vehicles

Left-hand drive motorsport vehicles must meet all the requirements described in Pre-registration and VIN 6, Left-hand drive vehicles. If an exemption has been issued, the code ‘C5 (Left hand drive motorsport)’ must be entered in the ‘Special permit’ field on the VIN screen.

MotorSport authority card

If a MotorSport NZ authority card is issued for a vehicle, the code LVAC (low volume authority card) must be entered in the IVCERT screen. The Certifier ID to be recorded for a motorsport authority card is >TMWM1<.

Record the modifications listed on the authority card in the comments field.

Step 2 – Compliance inspection

Motorsport vehicles must be inspected according to the requirements outlined in the VIRM: Entry certification.

If a vehicle has been modified, it must have LVV certification and/or a motorsport authority card (Figure 23-1-3).

If there is evidence of previous structural repairs or structural damage to a motorsport vehicle, it must be referred to a repair certifier for inspection and certification.

Step 3 – MR2A completion and vehicle registration

1. Any original exemption letters must be sighted, copied and returned to the vehicle owner.

2. Notes must be recorded against the vehicle record in LANDATA.

a) If the vehicle is recognised as a dedicated motorpsort vehicle that does not meet a frontal impact and/or exhaust emissions standard, the following note must be recorded in the LANDATA notes screen:

‘Vehicle must remain registered in the name of >vehicle owner< or motorsport vehicle recognition is void’.

The importer’s name must match the name shown on the exemption letter.
If the vehicle does not meet a frontal impact standard, the FIS (frontal impact standard) field must be set to >N<.

b) Update LANDATA with Special Permit Code MS.

c) If the vehicle has been issued a left-hand drive exemption letter, the following note must be recorded in the LANDATA notes screen:

‘Vehicle must remain registered in the name of the>vehicle owner< or left-hand drive exemption is void’.

3. The MR2A must be completed and printed in the name of the vehicle importer. This must be the same as the name shown on any exemption letter.

• Click here to go to Step 2

Figure 23-1-1. Procedure for processing an imported motorsport vehicle for entry certification

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Pre-registration and VIN: Vehicle attributes 2-2(8).

Application

This bulletin applies to self-propelled motorhome vehicles undergoing entry certification in New Zealand.

Requirements

When recording the number of seats in a self-propelled motorhome, the vehicle inspector must take the following factors into account:

• the number of seats recorded on the importation documents (eg the de-registration or export certificate), and
• the number of seats fitted by the vehicle manufacturer, and
• the date of manufacture or conversion to a motorhome.

Vehicles manufactured or converted to a motorhome before 1 October 2003

The inspector should only count the fixed seats originally fitted by the vehicle manufacturer, not additional seats constructed by folding up or repositioning squabs, tables or beds.

The number of seats recorded in LANDATA should not exceed the number of seats recorded on the importation documents.

The vehicle must be fitted with seatbelts appropriate for the class of vehicle it was recorded as when first registered as a motorhome.

Examples

1. A motorhome manufactured in 2001 is imported. Two seats are indicated on the de-registration certificate. There are six seating positions in the vehicle but four of these seating positions fold down into beds. The vehicle should be recorded in LANDATA as a two-seater.

2. A vehicle is imported with eight seats indicated on the de-registration certificate. There are three factory seats in the front, with two seats in the rear that fold down into beds. The vehicle should be recorded in LANDATA as a three-seater.

Vehicles manufactured or converted to a motorhome after 1 October 2003

The number of seating positions recorded in LANDATA should match the number of sleeping berths.

The vehicle must be fitted with:

a) seatbelts in front seating positions as specified for class MB vehicles in the VIRM: In-service certification Table 7-5-3 (column three).

b) seatbelts in rear seating positions as specified for class MB vehicles in the VIRM: In-service certification Table 7-5-3 (column three) for at least as many rear seating positions as the number of sleeping berths minus the number of front seating positions.

c) a notice displayed in a prominent location, which recommends on safety grounds that passengers use the seats that are fitted with seatbelts when the vehicle is travelling, and stating that it is compulsory to wear fitted seatbelts.

Example

1. A motorhome manufactured in 2004 is imported. The vehicle has five sleeping berths. There are two front seating positions. There must be at least three rear seating positions fitted with lap or lap-and-diagonal seatbelts. The vehicle should be recorded in LANDATA as a five-seater.

2. A motorhome manufactured in 2004 is imported. The vehicle has two sleeping berths. There are two front seating positions and there is a two-seat sofa in the rear. There is no requirement to have any of the rear seating positions fitted with belts. The vehicle should be recorded in LANDATA as a two-seater.

Situation

• Under Land Transport Rule: Frontal Impact Amendment 2008 and Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Exhaust Emissions Amendment 2007, a vehicle is not required to comply with an approved frontal impact standard or exhaust emissions standard if it is recognised as an immigrant’s vehicle.
• Under Land Transport Rule: Light Vehicle Brakes 2002, class LC, LD and LE vehicles are not required to meet advanced brake systems requirements if it is recognised as an immigrant’s vehicle.

The following standards marking will be sufficient to determine that an immigrants’ vehicle may not comply with the necessary standards and can therefore be processed under immigrant’s vehicle criteria.

Emissions

• A whole vehicle approval plate with the framework approval number 98/14 or earlier for both petrol and diesel powered vehicles
• An ADR plate with the approval date of 12/2005 or earlier for petrol, LPG or CNG powered vehicles
• An ADR plate with the approval date of 12/2006 or earlier for diesel powered vehicles
• An EPA label with the model year of 2000 or earlier for petrol, LPG or CNG powered vehicles
• An EPA label with the model year of 2003 or earlier for diesel powered vehicles.

Frontal impact

• A whole vehicle approval plate with the approval number 98/14 or earlier
• An ADR plate with the approval date of 12/1995 or earlier.

Electronic stability control (ESC)

ESC provisions do not apply to immigrants' vehicles.

Advanced brake system (ABS) requirements

ABS requirements do not apply to immigrants’ vehicles of class LC, LD or LE.

Application

This document applies to any used vehicle that is undergoing entry certification in New Zealand, which:

• has been identified in writing by a Transport Agency entry certification agent as an immigrant’s vehicle appropriate for certification to enter service in New Zealand, and
• is imported to New Zealand by an immigrant entitled to take up permanent residence in New Zealand, or
• is imported by a New Zealand citizen or resident returning to New Zealand after at least 21 months overseas.

Obtaining recognition of an immigrant’s vehicle

To be eligible to register an immigrant’s vehicle, an applicant must:

1. apply to an organisation appointed by the Transport Agency (such as a Transport Agency entry certification agent), before the vehicle is certified for entry into service in New Zealand (an application form is available in Reference material 50), and

2. pay the appropriate fees (if any) specified in accordance with regulations made under the Act.

Recognition of an immigrant’s vehicle may be granted if:

• the applicant is a New Zealand citizen, or a New Zealand resident, or entitled to take up permanent residence in New Zealand under the Immigration Act 1987 (Note 1), and
• the applicant has lived outside New Zealand for at least 21 months continuously before arriving in or returning to New Zealand (Note 3), and
• the application is made:

a) within 18 months of the applicant’s arrival in or return to New Zealand, or

b) for a vehicle border checked between 1 April 2002 and 8 May 2008, and

c) the applicant has signed a declaration in accordance with the immigrant’s vehicle criteria.

Inspection

The following flowchart explains the procedure for processing an immigrant’s vehicle for entry certification.

Step 1 – Documentation

Immigrants’ vehicles must still meet those standards applicable to the vehicle (according to age, etc).

The VIRM: Entry certification details the standards a vehicle and its components are required to meet. See Inspection & certification Table 1-1-1 for methods to demonstrate compliance with required standards.

Where compliance with an approved standard can not be proven by these methods, the following methods are acceptable alternatives:

• visual confirmation and recording of standards for items such as lighting, glazing, tyres and so on
• low volume vehicle (LVV) certification for modified components, such as brakes, steering and suspension
• a letter of exemption from the Transport Agency for specific items not covered above. Application forms for exemptions can be obtained from the the Transport Agency website.

Step 2 – Compliance inspection

Immigrants’ vehicles must be inspected according to the requirements outlined in the VIRM: Entry certification.

If a vehicle has been modified, it must have LVV certification.

If there is evidence of previous structural repairs or structural damage to a vehicle, it must be referred to a repair certifier for inspection and certification.

Ensure the vehicle meets all other required standards.

Step 3 – MR2A completion and vehicle registration

1. Any original letters must be sighted, copied and returned to the vehicle owner.

2. The following note must be recorded in the LANDATA notes screen:

‘Vehicle must remain registered in the name of >vehicle owner< for at least one year from the date
of registration in New Zealand’.

The applicant’s name must match the name shown on the letter of recognition as an immigrant’s vehicle.
If the vehicle does not meet an approved frontal impact standard, the FIS (frontal impact standard) field must be set to >N<.

3. Update LANDATA with special permit code IM.

4. The MR2A must be completed and printed in the name of the person registering the vehicle. This must be the same as the name shown on any exemption letter.

5. The entry certifier must retain a copy of the immigrant's approval letter on the vehicle file.

If an entry certifier wishes to deviate from these instructions, written approval from the Transport Agency must be obtained.

Situation

• Under Land Transport Rule: Frontal Impact Amendment 2008 and Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Exhaust Emissions 2007, a class MA vehicle is not required to comply with an approved frontal impact standard or exhaust emissions standard if it is granted a special interest vehicle permit.
• Under Land Transport Rule: Light Vehicle Brakes 2002, special interest vehicles are not required to meet electronic stability control requirements if it is granted a special interest vehicle permit.
• Under Land Transport Rule: Light Vehicle Brakes 2002, class LC, LD and LE vehicles are not required to meet advanced brake systems requirements if it is granted a special interest motorcycle permit.

Application

This document applies to any used or parallel-imported vehicle that is undergoing entry certification in New Zealand, which has been granted a special interest vehicle (SIV) or special interest motorcycle (SIMC) permit and is appropriate for certification to enter service in New Zealand.

Obtaining special interest vehicle and special interest motorcycle permits

To obtain an SIV or SIMC permit, an applicant must:

1. apply to Waka Kotahi before the vehicle is certified for entry into service in New Zealand; and

2. pay the appropriate fees (if any) specified in accordance with regulations made under the Act.

Inspection

The following flowchart explains the procedure for processing a special interest vehicle for entry certification.

Step 1 – Documentation

SIVs and SIMCs must still meet those standards applicable to the vehicle (according to age, etc).

The VIRM: Entry certification details the standards a vehicle and its components are required to meet. See Inspection & certification Table 1-1-3 (Inspection & certification section 1-1) for methods to demonstrate compliance with required standards.

Where compliance with an approved standard cannot be proven by these methods, the following methods are acceptable alternatives:

• visual confirmation and recording of standards for items such as lighting, glazing, tyres and so on.
• low volume vehicle (LVV) certification for modified components, such as brakes, steering and suspension.
• a letter of exemption from Waka Kotahi for specific items not covered above. Application forms for exemptions can be obtained from the Waka Kotahi website.

Step 2 – Submit to the Transport Agency for processing

The application and documentation for a special interest vehicle permit must be submitted to:

Exemptions and Registers Integrity
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency
Private Bag 11777
Palmerston North 4442

A letter advising of the result (approve or decline) will be sent to the entry certifier for forwarding to the applicant.

Step 3 – Compliance inspection

SIVs and SIMCs must be inspected according to the requirements outlined in the VIRM: Entry certification.

If a vehicle has been modified, it must have LVV certification.

If there is evidence of previous structural repairs or structural damage to a vehicle, it must be referred to a repair certifier for inspection and certification.

Step 4 – MR2A completion and vehicle registration

1. Any original letters must be sighted, copied and returned to the vehicle owner.

2. If the vehicle has been issued a special interest vehicle permit and does not meet an approved frontal impact standard, and/or exhaust emissions standard, and/or is not fitted with electronic stability control (ESC) the following note must be recorded in the LANDATA notes screen:

‘Vehicle must remain registered in the name of >vehicle owner< for at least four years from
the date of first registration in New Zealand’.

The owner’s name must match the name shown on the permit.
If the vehicle does not meet an approved frontal impact standard, the FIS (frontal impact standard) field must be set to >N<.

3. Update LANDATA with special permit code SP.

4. The MR2A must be completed and printed in the name of the person registering the vehicle. This must be the same as the name shown on any exemption letter.

If an entry certifier wishes to deviate from these instructions, written approval from Waka Kotahi must be obtained.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Exhaust – 11-2 Exhaust emissions: Reason for rejection 1.

Application

Under Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Exhaust Emissions 2007, when a vehicle undergoes entry-level certification in New Zealand, proof that the vehicle was manufactured to meet an approved emissions standard is required.

This technical bulletin applies to all vehicles being certified for entry into New Zealand that are required to meet approved exhaust emissions standards.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle interior – 7-6 Airbags
• Brakes – 8-1 Service brake and park brake - general vehicles
• Brakes – 8-1 Service brake and park brake - heavy vehicles
• Brakes – 8-1 Service brake and park brake - motorcycles

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Pre-registration and VIN: 5 – Left-hand drive vehicles
• Inspection and certification: Brakes – 8-1 Service brake and park brake: Reason for rejection 3.

Application

This bulletin applies to vehicles that are fitted or equipped with dual brake systems for use in Japanese driving schools, which:

• are fitted with two sets of pedals, and
• are not going to be operated in service as driving school vehicles in New Zealand.

Requirements

1. The left-side pedals and their complete operating system must be removed from the vehicle.

2. The vehicle must be low volume vehicle (LVV) certified.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Brakes – 8-1 Service brake and park brake.

Application

Under Land Transport Rule: Heavy Vehicle Brakes 2006, when a heavy powered vehicle undergoes entry-level certification in New Zealand, proof that the vehicle was manufactured to meet an approved brakes standard may be required.

This technical bulletin applies to all class MD3, MD4, ME, NB and NC vehicles being certified for entry into New Zealand that are required to meet approved brakes standards.

Any one of the following methods may be used to prove a vehicle was manufactured to meet approved brake standards.

Acceptable proof of brakes rule compliance for new or used vehicles manufactured for the Japanese market

1. A vehicle manufactured in Japan for the Japanese market on or after 1 July2000, but not previously registered in Japan, an original completion inspection certificate
Example: See Reference material 23, or

2. A vehicle manufactured in Japan for the Japanese market and previously registered in Japan on or after 1 July 2000, an original Japanese de-registration, export or detailed registration history certificate
Example: See Reference material 20, 21, 22 and 24.

Note These vehicles will meet Japanese Technical Standards.

Acceptable proof of brakes rule compliance for new or used vehicles manufactured for the Australian market

An ADR compliance plate on a vehicle manufactured on or after 1 July 1979. Note: If the ADR plate lists individual rules, ADR 35 must be listed for proof of compliance.

Example: See Reference material 32.

Acceptable proof of brakes rule compliance for new or used vehicles manufactured for the European market

1. An EC whole vehicle approval plate
Example: See Reference material 29, or

2. A UN/ECE compliance plate listing an approved brakes standard
Example: See Reference material 28.

Acceptable proof of brakes compliance for new or used vehicles manufactured for the US market

1. Original documents confirming the vehicle was manufactured for the US market and would be permitted for use on public roads in the US, and a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) plate or label affixed to the vehicle
Example: See Reference material 30 and 31, or

2. An FMVSS plate or label affixed to a vehicle with air brakes manufactured on or after 1 January 1975, or a vehicle with hydraulic brakes manufactured on or after 1 September 1983, or a vehicle with electric brakes manufactured on or after 1 November 1997, and original documents confirming the vehicle was first registered in the US
Example: See Reference material 30.

Acceptable proof of brakes rule compliance for new or used vehicles manufactured anywhere

1. The vehicle make and model is listed here as distributed by the Motor Industry Association of New Zealand (MIA) and sold through its franchise dealer network, or

2. A statement of compliance including an approved brakes standard.

Example: See Reference material 19

Action

The appropriate brakes standard code must be entered into the standards code field in the ILOAD screen on LANDATA (refer to ILOAD screen pages in section 3 of the LATIS agents’ manual).

If the vehicle does not have evidence of compliance with an approved brakes standard, the entry inspector must fail the vehicle and refer the vehicle owner to the Transport Agency (phone 0800 699 000; mail PO Box 5084, Wellington 6145) for further advice.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual references

This bulletin gives guidance to vehicle inspectors in applying the following requirements in the VIRM: Entry certification:

• Vehicle structure: 3-5 Stability (light PSV)
• Vehicle structure: 3-5 Stability (heavy PSV).

Application

Under Land Transport Rule: Passenger Service Vehicles 1999, when a heavy vehicle enters service as a PSV in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000 it must demonstrate static tilt stability.

Any of the following vehicles listed in Table 1 below can be accepted as meeting this requirement.

Table 1: Vehicles meeting static tilt stability requirements.

Situation

Under Land Transport Rule: Steering Systems Amendment (2010), a class MA left-hand drive vehicle under 20 years old may be certified for entry into New Zealand if it is granted a Category A left-hand drive vehicle permit by Waka Kotahi.

The person issued with the Category A left-hand drive vehicle permit does not have to be the importer of the vehicle.

Application

This document applies to any class MA left-hand drive vehicle less than 20 years old that is undergoing entry certification in New Zealand, which has been granted a Category A left-hand drive vehicle permit and is appropriate for certification to enter service in New Zealand.

Obtaining Category A left-hand drive vehicle permits

To obtain a Category A left-hand drive vehicle permit, an applicant must:

1. apply to Waka Kotahi before the vehicle is certified for entry into service in New Zealand; and

2. pay the appropriate fees specified in accordance with regulations made under the Act.

Inspection

The following flowchart explains the procedure for processing a Category A left-hand drivevehicle for entry certification.

Step 1 – Documentation

Category A left-hand drive vehicles must still meet those standards applicable to the vehicle (according to age, etc).

The VIRM: Entry certification details the standards a vehicle and its components are required to meet. See Inspection & certification Table 1-1-1 for methods to demonstrate compliance with required standards.

Where compliance with an approved standard cannot be proven by these methods, the following methods are acceptable alternatives:

• visual confirmation and recording of standards for items such as lighting, glazing, tyres and so on.
• low volume vehicle (LVV) certification for modified components, such as brakes, steering and suspension.
• a letter of exemption from Waka Kotahi for specific items not covered above. Application forms for exemptions can be obtained from the Waka Kotahi website.

Step 2 – Submit to Waka Kotahi for processing

The completed application form and all required documentation for a Category A left-hand drive vehicle permit must be submitted to Waka Kotahi.

Reference material 51: Category A left-hand drive vehicle permit application

A letter advising of the result (approved or declined) and the permit (if approved) will be sent to the entry certifier for forwarding to the applicant.

Step 3 – Compliance inspection

Category A left-hand drive vehicles must be inspected according to the requirements outlined in the VIRM: Entry certification.

If a vehicle has been modified, it must have LVV certification.

If there is evidence of previous structural repairs, structural damage or corrosion to a vehicle, it must be referred to a repair certifier for inspection and certification.

Step 4 – MR2A completion and vehicle registration

1. Entry certifiers must retain copies of all documentation in their original form for a minimum of two years. If the vehicle owner requests that original documents be returned to them, verified copies must be retained in the vehicle file. The recipient’s name and the reason for return must be recorded in the LANDATA notes.

2. Where code A is entered, a note stating the following must be added to the vehicle notes:
‘Vehicle ceases to qualify for left-hand drive exemption if the registered owner changes before [DDMMYYYY]’.
The date specified must be either four years after first registration in New Zealand or when the vehicle reaches 20 years of age, whichever is earlier.
The owner’s name must match the name shown on the permit.

3. Update LANDATA with special permit code A.

4. The MR2A must be completed and printed in the name of the person registering the vehicle. This must be the same as the name shown on the permit.

If an entry certifier wishes to deviate from these instructions, they must obtain written approval from Waka Kotahi.

Situation

Under the Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance Amendment 2011, a vehicle of class LA or LB is required to undergo entry certification when entering service. A moped first registered in New Zealand prior to 1 July 2011 is exempt from certification and VIN under the Rule. However, they must be confirmed for classification, previous registration and ownership as required by the Land Transport (Motor Vehicle Registration and Licencing) Regulations 2011.

Application

This bulletin contains instructions for vehicle inspectors on how to handle entry certification of new, used and re-registered mopeds (class LA, LB).

Definition of a moped

A moped is defined as follows:

Flowchart A. New parallel imported moped

Inspection requirements

The following flowchart explains the procedure for processing a new parallel imported moped for entry certification.

Background

‘Request to remove border damage flag’ (Reference material 17) forms are to be processed by the entry certifier.

When a border inspection organisation identifies damage on a vehicle during the border check inspection, the vehicle will be flagged as damaged on LANDATA.

Light vehicles

Refer to VIRM: Entry certification, Inspection and certification, 3-4 Vehicle structure – Threshold for requiring repair certification. If the entry certifier determines that the damage does not exceed the threshold for requiring repair certification, an application must be made to remove the damage flag.

A repair certifier can determine whether or not a light vehicle may have a border damage flag removed once the vehicle has been repaired in accordance with the requirements of the VIRM: Light vehicle repair certification. This is recorded on the LT308 issued. If required, the entry certifier must complete an application to remove the damage flag.

Heavy vehicles

Once the appropriate heavy vehicle specialist certification has been carried out (including an LT400 to cover the repairs to the vehicle) the entry certifier must complete an application to remove the damage flag.

Form

A ‘Request to remove border damage flag’ form is available in Reference material 17. The entry certifier completes the form and gives it to the supervisor authorised to remove damage flags.

Procedures

To remove the damage flag (in LANDATA):

Identification of Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

The following evidence is acceptable proof that the vehicle is fitted with an ESC system:

• The presence and correct operation of appropriate ESC tell-tale indicators on the vehicle’s dashboard
• A Statement of Compliance showing ESC fitment
• A tell-tale indicator like the symbol below refers to an ESC system:
  

• A tell-tale indicator on the vehicle’s dashboard comprising one of the following acronyms:

Purpose

With the introduction of mandatory electronic stability control (ESC) requirements for class MC vehicles border checked from 1 March 2016, clarification has been sought from the Transport Agency as to how the definition of class MC vehicles, as set out in Table A of the various Land Transport Rules, should be interpreted and applied.

This technical bulletin sets out the Transport Agency’s interpretation of the definition to enable it to be applied consistently by Entry Certifiers and vehicle importers.

Definition

A class MC vehicle is defined by Land Transport Rules as:

A passenger vehicle, designed with special features for off-road operation, that has not more than nine seating positions (including the driver's seating position), and that:

(a) has four-wheel drive; and

(b) has at least four of the following characteristics when the vehicle is unladen on a level surface and the front wheels are parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal centre-line and the tyres are inflated to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure:

i. an approach angle of not less than 28 degrees;

ii. a breakover angle of not less than 14 degrees;

iii. a departure angle of not less than 20 degrees;

iv. a running clearance of not less than 200mm;

v. a front axle clearance, rear axle clearance, or suspension clearance of not less than 175mm.

Interpretation

The definition consists of two separate parts, both of which must be satisfied for a vehicle to be considered to be class MC. These are:

1. Whether the vehicle has been designed with special features for off-road operation, and
2. Whether the criteria set out in (a) and (b) of the definition are met.

A vehicle can be considered to have been “designed with special features for off-road operation” if it has been originally equipped with two or more features including, but not limited to:

• A transfer case that engages or disengages power to the front or rear wheels, controlled manually or electronically
• At least one locking differential, controlled manually or electronically
• Selectable high and low gear ratio ranges, controlled manually or electronically
• An electronic hill descent control system
• Underbody protection systems (such as skid plates), designed primarily for off-road use
• An electronic system for optimising the vehicle’s capability on off-road surfaces (such as Land Rover’s “Terrain Response” system).

If a vehicle has a drivetrain and transmission system that enables all four wheels to be driven at once, regardless of how this is actuated or selected, it has four-wheel drive for the purposes of sub-part (a).

With regards to sub-part (b), measurements are to be taken as per the following:

Reference

• Introduction 5-5: Identifying the vehicle class

Background

Some vans are entering New Zealand with a number of seats stated on the Japanese deregistration certificate that would place them in vehicle class MD1 or MD2. There is a requirement that vehicles must be compliant in the class they sit in as imported. Therefore a van with a deregistration certificate that states 10-12 seats (and has a GVM not exceeding 3.5t) is an MD1 and one whose deregistration certificate states 13 or more seats (and has a GVM not exceeding 3.5t) is an MD2. Each must be entry certified as the class determined by the number of seats on the deregistration certificate.

However, some of these seating positions, as defined by Japan, are either wheelchair positions or occasional seats (often referred to as dickie seats or jump seats). In New Zealand, the occasional seats are not suitable as seating positions nor do they have the appropriate seatbelts. Also, many importers would prefer to remove the occasional seats and discard them. The issue is the vehicle would then become a 9-seater (or 12-seater) and therefore change class to an MB (or MD1). In both these situations these vehicles would be deemed non-compliant MD1s (or MD2s) and would either have to be brought in line to meet MD1 (or MD2) requirements or have an exemption application considered at a cost.

Application

The standards requirements for MD2, MD1 and MB class are identical providing the gross vehicle mass (GVM) is over 2500kg. However, technology requirements differ in that MB class vehicles require ESC. The following resolution is for vans with a GVM over 2500kg entering the country with a deregistration certificate stating more than nine seats:

• If these vehicles meet all the requirements (Note 1) for MB (or MD1) class apart from the number of seats stated on the deregistration certificate, they can be considered MB (or MD1) class providing that they have nine or fewer seats (or 12 or fewer in the case of a change from MD2 to MD1) that meet New Zealand requirements, and the seating is original equipment. Wheelchair positions or occasional seats that have been removed are to be excluded from the seat count.

Background

Since 2013, a number of vehicle manufacturers have initiated recalls to replace frontal airbags manufactured by Takata due to a risk of incorrect deployment that can result in the release of metal shrapnel from the airbag inflator unit. Due to the number of affected vehicles, the supply of replacement parts has been delayed in a number of cases, resulting in lengthy delay before recalls can be completed.

The NZ Transport Agency has been made aware of a practice in Japan where front passenger airbags have been disconnected by the vehicle manufacturer’s agent as an interim measure pending the availability of parts needed to carry out the recall on the vehicle. The disconnection process involves fitting an electronic component to simulate the presence of the airbag so that the warning light operates as normal. A number of vehicles with disconnected airbags have already been imported into New Zealand in this condition, and the influx of vehicles in this condition is likely to continue in the foreseeable future.

Land Transport Rule: Frontal Impact 2001 requires that frontal airbags and airbag warning lights must not be rendered inoperable. As such, vehicles that have had their airbags disconnected cannot be entry certified.

Since version 1 of this bulletin, the Transport Agency has received additional information on the vehicles that may have had their passenger airbags disconnected, and how to determine whether a recall has been completed on an affected vehicle. This enables the range of vehicles requiring physical inspection to be limited to those identified in the attached Table 40-1-1. This is a change from the previous version of this bulletin: the list is now a list of included models that must be checked.

Certain modifications to vehicles that have been certified overseas to a process accepted by Waka Kotahi do not need specialist inspection and certification, unless the modification is unsafe or illegal in New Zealand. Some examples of this are a three-point seat belt installed for a sideways facing seat, a seating position with dangerous head strike risk, or a motorhome without the minimum number of seating positions for the number of sleeping berths. In these situations, referral to a specialist certifier is required.

In the case of some motorhomes there may be options that do not require referral to a specialist certifier, the two cases are:

1. Where there are not enough seats with seatbelts to match the number of berths – the additional berths can be removed or permanently disabled.
2. If a dangerous seating position is in excess of the minimum number of seats required based on the number of berths, the seatbelt can be removed without specialist certification and the number of seating positions recorded reduced.

Important: Exhaust emissions compliance isn’t guaranteed and must be verified by one of the methods specified in Technical Bulletin 28.

Applicable legislation: Land Transport Rule Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002 6.5(3).

Due to significant safety concerns, the Transport Agency has determined that all conversion vans (also known as day vans) will require LVV certification before they can enter service in New Zealand. Any second stage certification is not recognised by the Transport Agency.

The recently announced compulsory ‘Takata alpha airbag inflator recall order 2018’ becomes effective from 31 May 2018. From the effective date Takata alpha airbag inflators become a prohibited import as well as being prohibited for sale in trade.

The purpose of this technical bulletin is to outline the entry inspection process to identify vehicles subject to the mandatory Takata Alpha type airbag recall and how to deal with them.

Process

From 31 May 2018 entry certifiers will be required to check if vehicles they are inspecting are damage flagged with notes recorded stating ‘Open Airbag Recall’. Vehicles that are flagged only for ‘Open Airbag Recall’ and have no other damage recorded do not require repair certification.

If they do show ‘Open Airbag Recall’, then these vehicles are to be rejected for entry certification until such time as irrefutable evidence is provided from the manufacturer showing that the affected airbags have been replaced. If that evidence is provided, then the entry certifier can begin the rest of the entry certification compliance process as per usual procedures.

Note. Some vehicles may turn up for entry certification before 31 May 2018 that have already been damage flagged for ‘Open Airbag Recall’ by a Border Inspection Organisation. These vehicles can have the damage flag removed providing the airbag was the only fault, however the customers must be advised that unless the recall is remedied the vehicle cannot be offered for sale in trade after 31 May 2018.

For vehicles border checked prior to 21 May 2018 these notes will not have been added to affected vehicles. A check will have to be made to determine whether or not the vehicle is fitted with an effected airbag. This check can be done using the following websites:

• USA
  https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
• Australia
  https://www.productsafety.gov.au/recalls/compulsory-takata-airbag-recall/takata-airbag-recalls-list
• UK
  https://www.dft.gov.uk/vosa/apps/recalls/default.asp
• Japan
  www.vehiclerecallsafety.nzta.govt.nz/takata/importers

If vehicles are listed on these websites, and no conclusive evidence from the manufacturer is available to show the recall has been conducted, then a damage flag and notes must be recorded stating ‘Open Airbag Recall’.

For vehicles imported from countries other than those listed above, it is up to the importer to show that they are not subject to the recall by providing evidence from the governing authority of the country in question, or alternatively from the manufacturer's New Zealand representative.

Vehicle inspection requirements manual reference

• 3-4 Threshold for requiring specialist repair certification

Background

In the UK, roads are salted during the winter to reduce freezing. This causes vehicles to prematurely rust. Because of this, some new vehicle dealers will apply an extra coat of under-sealing prior to sale of a vehicle to protect the vehicle from corrosion.

Application

You do not have to refer to a specialist repair certifier a vehicle that has under-seal applied so long as:

• the vehicle has been imported from the UK, and
• the vehicle is less than 1 year old, and
• the vehicle has travelled less than 2000 km, and
• there is absolutely no sign of damage (if there is any doubt you must refer the vehicle to a specialist repair certifier), and
• you add notes to LANDATA explaining that under-seal has been observed and after close investigation no sign of damage repair could be seen.

Background

Some vehicles have dedicated wheelchair positions and multi-use positions where an occupant can sit if a wheelchair isn’t present. This technical bulletin provides clarity over how to record the number of seats.

Determining a vehicle’s class

Because wheelchair positions are included in the total seat count, they have an impact when determining a vehicle’s class.

Note: Vehicles of class MA, MB and MC do not have an upper GVM limit so a 9-seat van with a GVM of 4,000kg could be class MB.

Dedicated wheelchair positions

A dedicated wheelchair position is a seating position for transporting a wheelchair and its occupant that is unavailable for other passengers when it is not occupied by a wheelchair.

All dedicated wheelchair positions are included in the total seat count.

General requirements for parallel imports

Parallel imports are to be treated as a new vehicle for standards requirements but are subjected to the entry certification process of a used vehicle.

This means the following requirements are to be the same as for any other new vehicle:

• Vehicle standards compliance
• Emissions
• ESC (electronic stability control)
• Pre-delivery Inspection (PDI).

PDI requirements

A new light vehicle is required to have a pre-delivery inspection (PDI) before it can be certified for entry into service. This is carried out by an agent appointed by the manufacturer to ensure all safety systems are armed and operating correctly, and any outstanding warranty or safety recalls have been attended to.

An entry certifier processing a parallel-imported new light vehicle must retain a copy of the PDI checksheet, or evidence from the manufacturers representative, to verify that the PDI has been carried out. The PDI check sheet, or other evidence, must identify the name of the company that inspected the vehicle, date it was inspected and be signed by the person who carried out the inspection.

All new parallel imports must have evidence of at least one pre-deliver inspection (PDI). If no PDI is available, the applicant may apply for an exemption from the PDI requirements by applying for an exemption from the Vehicle standards compliance rule with the CA11 form. Any exemption given will require a strict and thorough inspection as defined in the conditions of the exemption.

Trim removal exemptions

As most new vehicles are unlikely to have a high risk of structural damage or corrosion an exemption to the trim removal stage of the entry inspection is likely to be given. The application form and instructions on how to apply can be found in Reference material 18

The ITS Connect system fitted to some vehicles that originated in Japan operates by broadcasting a signal on the 760MHz frequency. This frequency is not compatible with the licensing framework in New Zealand, under the Radio Communications Act 1989 it is illegal to import or operate a device that operates on this frequency.

The purpose of this technical bulletin is to define the entry certification process for vehicles that have been identified as being fitted with ITS Connect.

Process

From 1 April 2021 entry certifiers will be required to check if vehicles they are inspecting are damage flagged with notes recorded stating ‘ITS Connect Fitted’. Vehicles that are flagged only for ‘ITS Connect Fitted’ and/or ‘Open Airbag Recall’ and have no other damage recorded do not require repair certification. If ‘Open Airbag Recall’ is noted please see Technical bulletin 43: Takata airbag recall

If a vehicle’s records show ‘ITS Connect Fitted’ then these vehicles are to be rejected for entry certification until such time as evidence is provided that the ITS Connect system has been disabled. Appropriate evidence of the system being disabled would be in the form of an invoice from a Toyota Japan dealer. This evidence should be provided by the border inspector and available on BIS. If that evidence is provided, then the entry certifier can begin the rest of the entry certification compliance process as per usual procedures.

If evidence is not available on BIS the border inspection agent may be able to provide evidence. If evidence of the system being removed is not available, the vehicle owner will need to have the ITS Connect system disabled by Toyota New Zealand. An invoice from a Toyota franchise is suitable evidence the system has been disabled.

There have been changes to the Australian Road Vehicle Standards (RVS) legislation. Included in these changes is the introduction of the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV), a publicly searchable database of vehicles that have met the requirements of the RVS legislation and been given Australian Design Rules (ADR) approval. The RAV replaces the need for the physical ADR compliance plates previously fitted to vehicles.

Under the RVS legislation, all road vehicles - cars, trucks, trailers, caravans etc must be entered on the RAV before they can be provided to the market for the first time in Australia.

The RAV is searchable using the vehicle’s permanently marked Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN uniquely identifies a vehicle and is permanently recorded on it. The VIN is usually found at the base of the windscreen (visible from outside the car) or on the door post or foot well of the vehicle.

Vehicle inspection requirements manuals reference:

• 3-4 Threshold for requiring specialist repair certification