In-service certification (WoF and CoF) - Tractors

Inspection and certification of tractors and self-propelled machines used in agricultural, land management and roading operations: Warrant of fitness requirements

This section specifies the requirements that are applicable to the inspection and certification of the following tractors and machines for the purpose of issuing a warrant of fitness (WoF).

1. Agricultural tractors:

2. Tractors (other than agricultural tractors):

3. Self-propelled agricultural machines (eg a combine or grape harvester):

4. Self-propelled machines used in non-agricultural land management or roading operations.

General requirements

1. This section applies to both light and heavy tractors and machines. Heavy tractors and machines are those that have a gross vehicle mass (GVM) exceeding 3500kg.

2. The table below specifies:

Tractor or machine that may be inspected for WoF1	WoF expiry	IO/VI authorisation required (inspection group)
An agricultural tractor capable of exceeding a speed of 40km/h	12 months2	Agricultural motor vehicle (6)3, 4
A tractor (other than an agricultural tractor) capable of exceeding a speed of 30km/h but not exceeding 50km/h	12 months – vehicle is less than 6 years old from date of first registration 6 months – vehicle is 6 or more years old from date of first registration	Heavy vehicle exempt from CoF (5)
A self-propelled agricultural machine capable of exceeding 40km/h	12 months2	Agricultural motor vehicle (6)3, 4
A self-propelled machine used in non-agricultural land management or roading operations capable of exceeding a speed of 30km/h.	12 months – vehicle is less than 6 years old from date of first registration 6 months – vehicle is 6 or more years old from date of first registration	Heavy vehicle exempt from CoF (5)
1 A tractor or machine requires a WoF only if it is operated above the 30km/h or 40km/h as specified in the table. 2 IMPORTANT: An agricultural tractor or machine only qualifies for a 12-month WoF if it is on inspection group 6 (agricultural motor vehicle). The vehicle inspector may need to tick the appropriate inspection group when prompted on the inspection screen. The prompt will only appear if the vehicle is correctly licensed as an agricultural motor vehicle. If a vehicle is not correctly licensed as an agricultural motor vehicle, it does not qualify for inspection group 6 and 12-month WoF, and the WoF expiry will default to 12 or 6 month WoFs applicable to non-agricultural tractors and machines. The owner should contact the NZTA on 0800 108 809 to get the vehicle correctly licensed as an agricultural motor vehicle. 3 Vehicle inspectors that have inspection group 5 authorisation will automatically qualify for inspection group 6 authorisation. 4 Most light agricultural tractors or machines cannot exceed 40km/h so cannot be inspected for WoF. If you are presented with a light agricultural tractor or machine that can exceed 40km/h, and you don’t have inspection group 5 or 6 authorisation, please contact the NZTA on 0800 587 287 to get the correct authorisation.

3. Only a tractor or machine that has a registration plate attached to it may be inspected for a WoF.

4. Modifications that affect a safety requirement do not require low volume vehicle (LVV) or heavy vehicle specialist (HVS) certification unless otherwise specified. However, if the vehicle inspector has concerns about the modification, he must obtain additional information from a relevant person before passing the vehicle for WoF.

5. A tractor or machine is not required to have a vehicle identifier. If the tractor or machine has a vehicle identifier, such as the manufacturer’s serial number, it must be recorded on the checksheet and on the NZ Transport Agency computer system.

Reasons for rejection

Condition and performance

1. The risk of a component (Note 1) hooking a vehicle, or hooking or grazing a person, has not been minimised.

2. An ornamental object or fitting (Note 2) protrudes in such a way that it is likely to injure a person.

3. A protruding object or fitting that has a functional purpose (Note 2) is fitted in a way that does not reduce the risk of injury to a person.

4. A component, object or fitting is not securely attached to the vehicle.

5. A protruding object or fitting adversely affects the driver’s vision or control.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: External Projections 2001

Permitted equipment

1. A vehicle may be fitted with a protruding ornamental or functional object or fitting.

Condition and performance

2. A protruding ornamental object or fitting must not be likely to injure a person.

3. A protruding object or fitting that has a functional purpose must be installed so that the risk of the object or fitting causing injury to a person is minimised.

4. Components of a motor vehicle, including damaged or corroded body panels, must be such that the risk of their hooking a vehicle, or hooking or grazing a person, is minimised.

5. A protruding object or fitting must not adversely affect driver vision or driver control.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle that exceeds the dimension requirements set out in Table 2-2-1 is not fitted with the appropriate hazard warning equipment set out in Table 2-2-2.

2. A required revolving amber beacon cannot be activated and deactivated.

Table 2-2-1. Dimension requirements (see Figure 2-2-4)

Dimension	Maximum distance	Comments
Width	2.55m 1.275m from each side of the longitudinal centreline of the vehicle	Measurement does not include: collapsible mirrors which extend no more than 240mm from the side or 1.49m when measured from the vehicle’s longitudinal centre line direction indicators and side-marker lamps cab exterior grab rails that extend no more than 1.325m when measured from a vehicle’s longitudinal centre-line the bulge towards the bottom of a tyre.
Overall length	12.6m (no tow coupling fitted) 11.5m (tow coupling fitted)	Measurement does not include collapsible mirrors.
Height	4.3m
Forward distance	9.5m (no tow coupling fitted) 8.5m (including tow coupling if fitted)	Forward distance is measured from the rear axis (Note 1) to the front of the vehicle. Measurement does not include collapsible mirrors.
Rear overhang	Vehicle GVM 3500kg or less: 4m Vehicle GVM greater than 3500 kg: with rearmost axle being a non-steering axle: 4m or 70% of wheelbase (whichever is less) with rearmost axle being a steering axle: 4.25m or 75% of wheelbase (whichever is less)	Rear overhang is measured from the rear axis (Note 1) to the rear of the vehicle.
Front overhang	Rigid non-agricultural motor vehicle: 3m Rigid agricultural motor vehicle: 4m	Front overhang is measured from the front edge of the driver’s seat in the rearmost position to the front of the vehicle.
Ground clearance for vehicles with GVM greater than 3500kg.	Minimum is the greater of 100mm OR 6% of the distance from the nearest axle to the point where the ground clearance is measured.	Except when the vehicle is loading or unloading. Items excluded from ground clearance measurement are: flexible mudflaps wheels and tyres devices designed to discharge static electricity.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle that exceeds the dimensions in Table 2-2-1 must be fitted with the equipment set out in Table 2-2-2.

Reasons for rejection

Condition

1. The structure of the tractor has visible:

a) deformation from the original shape that has affected the vehicle’s structural integrity (Note 1)  (Note 3), or

b) cracking, or

c) fracture, or

d) corrosion, damage or repair that the inspector considers has caused weakening of a load-bearing structure.

2. A rollover protection structure or cab is not securely attached to the tractor.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002, clause 7.4.

Condition

1. The vehicle must be safe to be operated.

2. The components and materials must be fit for their purpose and within safe tolerance of their state when manufactured or modified.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle is not fitted with one pair of dipped-beam headlamps.

2. A vehicle is fitted with more than:

a) one pair of dipped-beam headlamps, or

b) two pairs of main-beam headlamps.

3. A vehicle is fitted with a headlamp that is not in a pair.

4. A retrofitted pair of headlamps is not fitted:

a) symmetrically, or

b) as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

5. A vehicle is fitted with a dipped-beam headlamp where the maximum intensity of the beam is projected to the right.

Condition

6. A lamp is insecure.

7. A lens is missing or has a hole, crack or other damage that allows moisture or dirt to enter.

8. A lens or reflector is damaged or has deteriorated so that light output is reduced.

9. A main-beam headlamp warning device is obscured from the driver’s vision.

10. A mandatory lamp is obscured or contains dirt or moisture in the form of large droplets, runs or puddles.

Performance

11. When switched on, a headlamp emits a light that is:

a) not substantially white or amber, or

b) not approximately equal in colour or intensity to the other lamp in a pair, or

c) not steady, or

d) not bright enough to illuminate the road ahead, eg due to modification, deterioration or an incorrect light source, or

e) too bright, eg due to the fitment of an HID or LED conversion kit (Note 6) or other incorrect light source.

12. When the dipped-beam headlamps are switched on (with wheels pointing straight ahead):

a) a lamp does not operate, or

b) more than two lamps operate on dipped beam, or

c) the light beam produces an incorrect beam pattern, is not focused, or is reduced or altered, or

d) the centreline of the light beam is too far to the left or slopes down too far so that the headlamp is no longer capable of illuminating the road at least 50 m ahead (Figure 4-1-1), or

e) the centreline of the light beam:

i. projects to the right of the vehicle’s centreline, or

ii. does not dip at an angle specified in Table 4-1-1.

13. When the main-beam headlamps are switched on (with wheels pointing straight ahead):

a) a lamp does not operate, or

b) more than four lamps operate on main beam, or

c) the centreline of the light beam projects to the right of the vehicle’s centreline or up from the horizontal, or

d) the lamps are not capable of being switched to dipped beam or turned off from the driver’s seating position, or

e) a main-beam headlamp warning device does not indicate to the driver that the main-beam headlamps are switched on.

Table 4-1-1. Allowable dipped-beam headlamp alignment

	Headlamp type	Distance from ground to centre of light source	Dip rate of beam centre: lower and upper limits
			Percent (%)	mm/3m	Degrees (°)
EITHER	Any headlamp dipped beam	N/A	As specified by the vehicle or headlamp manufacturer
OR	Headlamp with symmetric dipped-beam pattern	N/A	3.0–3.5	90–105	1.7–2.0
OR	Headlamp with asymmetric dipped-beam pattern and distance from ground to centre of light source	less than 0.8m	1.0–1.5	30–45	0.57–0.85
		0.8–1.2m	1.0–2.0	30–60	0.57–1.15
		more than 1.2m	2.0–2.5	60–75	1.15–1.43

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004.

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle:

a) must be fitted with one pair of dipped-beam headlamps, and

b) may be fitted with one or two pairs of main-beam headlamps.

2. A warning device may be fitted that indicates that the main beam headlamps are switched on.

3. A retrofitted pair of headlamps must be symmetrically mounted as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

Prohibited equipment

4. A dipped-beam headlamp designed solely for a left-hand drive vehicle, where the maximum intensity of the beam is dispersed to the right, must not be fitted.

Condition

5. A headlamp must:

a) be in sound condition, and

b) not be obscured.

Performance

6. A headlamp must operate in a way that is appropriate for the lamp and the vehicle.

7. A headlamp must emit a steady light.

8. A headlamp must provide sufficient illumination and light output to illuminate the road ahead.

9. A pair of headlamps must emit light that is approximately of equal colour and intensity when switched on.

10. A headlamp must emit a beam that is substantially white or amber.

11. A main-beam headlamp must be capable of being dipped or turned off from the driver’s position.

12. A warning device that indicates that the main-beam lamps are in operation must be in good working order.

13. When the headlamps are switched on and the vehicle’s front wheels are pointing in the straight ahead position:

a) the centre of a headlamp beam must be either parallel to or to the left of the longitudinal centreline of the vehicle, and

b) the centre of a main-beam headlamp beam must be either parallel to or dipping down from the horizontal, and

c) the centre of a dipped beam headlamp beam must dip at an angle specified in Table 4-1-1.

14. The dipped-beam headlamps must illuminate the road ahead for 50 m in normal darkness.

15. A headlamp must be fitted with a light source that is specified by the vehicle manufacturer or the headlamp manufacturer.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 2006 that is so constructed that the driver’s arm signals cannot be seen from behind the vehicle is not fitted with one pair of rear direction indicator lamps.

2. A vehicle first registered on or after 1 January 2006 is not fitted with one pair of rear direction indicator lamps.

3. A vehicle is fitted with more than:

a) two pairs of lamps at the rear (other than top-mounted lamps), or

b) one pair of top-mounted lamps at the rear, or

c) two pairs of forward-facing lamps, or

d) two side-facing lamps on each side of the vehicle.

4. A vehicle is fitted with a lamp that is not in a pair.

5. A retrofitted lamp, other than a top-mounted lamp, is mounted at a height from the ground exceeding 1.5m (or 2.1m where fitting below 1.5m is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle).

6. A pair of top-mounted lamps is not fitted as close as is practicable to the top corners of the bodywork.

7. A retrofitted pair of lamps is not:

a) symmetrically mounted, or

b) mounted as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

8. A vehicle is not fitted with a suitable device that indicates to the driver that a lamp has failed.

Condition

9. A lamp is insecure or, if a mandatory lamp, contains moisture in the form of large droplets, runs or puddles.

10. A lens is missing or has a hole, crack or other damage that allows moisture or dirt to enter.

11. A lamp’s reflector is damaged or has deteriorated so that light output is reduced.

12. A visual lamp-failure warning device is obscured from the driver in the driver’s seating position.

Performance

13. When switched on, a direction indicator lamp:

a) does not operate, or

b) does not begin flashing within one second of switching on, or

c) flashes:

i. faster than two flashes per second, or

ii. slower than one flash per second, or

iii. at a different rate from other lamps on the same side.

14. When switched on, a direction indicator lamp emits a light that is:

a) not substantially amber or red to the rear, or

b) not substantially white or amber to the front, or

c) not substantially amber to the side, or

d) not approximately equal in colour or intensity to the other lamp in a pair, or

e) not bright enough to be visible from 100 m in normal daylight and from 200m in normal darkness, eg due to modification, deterioration, dirt or an incorrect light source, or

f) too bright, causing significant dazzle to other road users, eg due to an incorrect light source, or

g) altered, eg due to damage or modification.

15. A mandatory lamp mounted outside the original position emits a light that is not visible within (Figure 4-5-1):

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, or

b) 45° inboard or 80° outboard.

16. A modification to the vehicle has reduced the visibility angles of a mandatory lamp to less than (Figure 4-5-1):

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, or

b) 45° inboard or 80° outboard.

17. On a vehicle of American specification fitted with combined stop and indicator lamps, the stop lamp function is not overridden by the indicator function.

18. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), fewer than 75% of these operate.

19. A lamp failure warning device does not operate.

Figure 4-5-1. Direction indicator beam angles

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004.

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 2006 must be fitted with one or two pairs of rearward-facing lamps if the vehicle is so constructed that it prevents an arm signal given by the driver from being seen behind the vehicle.

2. A vehicle first registered anywhere on or after 1 January 2006 must be fitted with one or two pairs of lamps fitted to the rear of the vehicle.

3. A vehicle may be fitted with an additional pair of lamps at the rear of the vehicle that must be symmetrically mounted as far towards the top corners of the bodywork of the vehicle as is practicable (top-mounted lamps).

4. A vehicle may be fitted with one or two pairs of forward-facing lamps.

5. A vehicle may be fitted with one or two side-facing lamps on each side.

6. A suitable device must be fitted that indicates to the driver the failure of a mandatory lamp.

7. A retrofitted pair of lamps must be mounted:

a) symmetrically as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable, and

b) at a height from the ground not exceeding 1.5m, or if this is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle, not exceeding 2.1m.

8. On vehicles of American specification, the stop lamp and direction indicator lamp function may be combined in one lamp.

Condition

9. A direction indicator lamp must:

a) be in sound condition, and

b) not be obscured (if a mandatory lamp).

Performance

10. A direction indicator lamp must operate in a way that is appropriate for the lamp and the vehicle.

11. A direction indicator lamp must emit a light that is substantially:

a) red or amber to the rear, and

b) white or amber to the front, and

c) amber to the side.

11. A lamp must flash at a fixed frequency in the range of 1 to 2 Hertz.

12. Each lamp in a pair must, when operated, emit a light of approximately equal intensity, colour and frequency.

13. The lamp-failure indicating device must function.

14. A lamp must emit a light that is visible from 100 m during normal daylight and 200 m in normal darkness.

15. A mandatory lamp must emit a light that is visible within angles of:

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, and

b) 45° inboard, and

c) 80° outboard.

16. If a vehicle of American specification is fitted with combined stop and indicator lamps, the indicator lamps must override the stop lamps so that the stop lamps operate as direction indicators.

17. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), at least 75% of these must operate.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. One pair of lamps is not fitted to:

a) a vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 January 1978 that exceeds 1.5m in width, or

b) a vehicle that exceeds 2m in width.

2. A vehicle is fitted with more than:

a) one pair of lamps (other than top-mounted lamps), or

b) two single lamps, or

c) one pair of top-mounted lamps.

3. A retrofitted lamp, other than a top-mounted lamp, is mounted at a height from the ground exceeding 1.5m (or 2.1m where fitting below 1.5m is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle).

4. A pair of top-mounted lamps is not fitted as close as is practicable to the top corners of the bodywork.

5. A retrofitted pair of lamps is not:

a) symmetrically mounted, or

b) mounted as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

Condition

6. A lamp is insecure or, if a mandatory lamp, contains moisture in the form of large droplets, runs or puddles.

7. A lens is missing or has a hole, crack or other damage that allows moisture or dirt to enter.

8. A lamp’s reflector is damaged or has deteriorated so that light output is reduced.

9. A mandatory lamp is obscured.

Performance

10. When switched on, a forward-facing position lamp does not operate.

11. When switched on, a forward-facing position lamp emits a light that is not:

a) substantially white or amber, or

b) diffuse, or

c) projected to the front, or

d) approximately equal in colour or intensity to the other lamp in a pair, or

e) steady, or

f) bright enough to be visible from 200m in normal darkness, eg due to modification, deterioration, dirt or an incorrect light source.

12. A non-OE mandatory lamp mounted outside the original position emits a light that is not visible within (Figure 4-6-1):

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, or

b) 45° inboard or 80° outboard.

13. A modification to the vehicle has reduced the visibility angles of a mandatory lamp to less than (Figure 4-6-1):

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, or

b) 45° inboard or 80° outboard.

14. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), fewer than 75% of these operate.

Figure 4-6-1. Forward-facing position lamp beam angles

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004.

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. One pair of lamps must be fitted to:

a) a vehicle first registered in new Zealand on or after 1 January 1978 that exceeds 1.5m in width, or

b) a vehicle that exceeds 2m in width.

2. One or two lamps may be fitted to:

a) a vehicle that does not exceed 1.5m in width, or

b) a vehicle first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 1978 that does not exceed 2m in width.

3. A retrofitted pair of lamps must be symmetrically mounted as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

4. A retrofitted lamp must be mounted at a height from the ground not exceeding 1.5m, or if this is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle, not exceeding 2.1m.

5. A vehicle may be fitted with one additional pair of forward-facing position lamps that must be symmetrically mounted as far towards the top corners of the vehicle as is practicable (top-mounted lamps).

Condition

6. A forward-facing position lamp must:

a) be in sound condition, and

b) not be obscured (if a mandatory lamp).

Performance

7. A forward-facing position lamp must operate in a way that is appropriate for the lamp and the vehicle.

8. A lamp must emit a light that is:

a) diffuse, and

b) substantially white or amber, and

c) steady, and

d) sufficient to indicate to other road users the presence and dimensions of the vehicle, and

e) visible from 200m in normal darkness, and

f) of approximately equal intensity and colour to the other lamp of a pair.

9. A mandatory lamp must be visible within angles of:

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, and

b) 45° inboard, and

c) 80° outboard.

10. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), at least 75% of these must operate.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 January 1978 that is more than 1.5m wide is:

a) not fitted with one pair of lamps, or

b) fitted with more than two pairs of lamps (other than top-mounted lamps), or

c) fitted with a lamp that is not in a pair.

2. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 1978 or is less than 1.5m wide is:

a) not fitted with a single lamp or one pair of lamps, or

b) fitted with more than one single lamp, or

c) fitted with more than two pairs of lamps (other than top-mounted lamps).

3. A vehicle is fitted with more than one pair of top-mounted lamps.

4. A single lamp is fitted to the left of the centre of the vehicle.

5. A pair of top-mounted lamps is not fitted as close as is practicable towards the top corners of the bodywork.

6. A retrofitted lamp, other than a top-mounted lamp, is mounted at a height from the ground exceeding 1.5m (or 2.1m where fitting below 1.5m is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle).

7. A retrofitted pair of lamps is not:

a) symmetrically mounted, or

b) mounted as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

Condition

8. A lamp is insecure or, if a mandatory lamp, contains moisture in the form of large droplets, runs or puddles.

9. A lens is missing or has a hole, crack or other damage that allows moisture or dirt to enter.

10. A lamp’s reflector is damaged or has deteriorated so that light output is reduced.

11. A mandatory lamp is obscured.

Performance

12. When switched on, a mandatory lamp does not operate.

13. When switched on, a lamp emits a light that is not:

a) substantially red, or

b) diffuse, or

c) projected to the rear, or

d) approximately equal in colour or intensity to that of the other lamp in a pair, or

e) steady, or

f) bright enough to be visible from 200m in normal darkness, eg due to modification, deterioration, dirt or an incorrect light source.

14. A non-OE mandatory lamp mounted outside the original position emits a light that is not visible within (Figure 4-7-1):

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, or

b) 45° inboard or 80° outboard.

15. A modification to the vehicle has reduced the visibility angles of a mandatory lamp to less than (Figure 4-7-1):

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, or

b) 45° inboard or 80° outboard.

14. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), fewer than 75% of these operate.

Figure 4-7-1. Rearward-facing position lamp beam angles

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004.

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 January 1978 and that is more than 1.5m wide must be fitted with one or two pairs of rearward-facing position lamps.

2. A vehicle that was first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 1978 or that does not exceed 1.5m in width must be fitted with:

a) one single rearward-facing position lamp in the centre or to the right of the centre of the vehicle, or

b) one or two pairs of rearward-facing position lamps.

3. A retrofitted pair of lamps must be mounted:

a) symmetrically as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable, and

b) at a height from the ground not exceeding 1.5m, or if this is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle, not exceeding 2.1m.

4. A vehicle may be fitted with an additional pair of rearward-facing position lamps symmetrically mounted as far towards each side and top of the bodywork of the vehicle as possible (top-mounted lamps).

Condition

5. A rearward-facing position lamp must:

a) be in sound condition, and

b) not be obscured (if a mandatory lamp).

Performance

6. A rearward-facing position lamp must operate in a way that is appropriate for the lamp and the vehicle.

7. A lamp must emit a light that is:

a) diffuse, and

b) substantially red.

8. A lamp must emit a steady light.

9. A lamp must provide sufficient light output to indicate to other road users the presence and dimensions of the vehicle.

10. A lamp must emit light that is visible from a distance of 200m in normal darkness.

11. A mandatory lamp must be visible within angles of 15° above and below the horizontal, and within 45° inboard and 80° outboard.

12. Each lamp in a pair must, when operated, emit a light of approximately equal intensity and colour.

13. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), at least 75% of these must operate.

Reasons for rejection

Permitted and prohibited equipment

1. A vehicle that has a length of less than 6m is fitted with a side-marker lamp.

2. A vehicle is fitted with side-marker lamps that do not give an indication of the vehicle’s dimensions.

Condition

3. A lamp is insecure.

4. A lens is missing or has a hole, crack or other damage that allows moisture or dirt to enter.

5. A reflector is damaged or has deteriorated so that light output is reduced.

Performance

6. When switched on, a lamp emits a light that is not:

a) steady, or

b) diffuse, or

c) substantially red or amber to the rear, or

d) substantially white or amber to the front.

7. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), fewer than 75% of these operate.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004.

Permitted and prohibited equipment

1. A vehicle with a length of 6m or more may be fitted with one or more side-marker lamps on each side.

2. A vehicle with a length of less than 6m must not be fitted with side-marker lamps.

3. The position of the lamps must be such that it gives an indication of the vehicle’s dimensions.

Condition

4. A side-marker lamp must be in good condition.

Performance

5. A side-marker lamp must operate in a way that is appropriate for the lamp and for the vehicle.

6. A lamp must emit a light that is:

a) steady, and

b) diffuse, and

c) substantially red or amber to the rear, and

d) substantially white or amber to the front.

7. Where a side-marker lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), at least 75% of these must operate.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 January 1978 is:

a) not fitted with one pair of stop lamps, or

b) fitted with a stop lamp that is not in a pair.

2. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 1978 is:

a) not fitted with one single lamp or one pair of lamps, or

b) fitted with more than one single lamp.

3. A vehicle is fitted with more than:

a) two pairs of lamps other than top-mounted lamps, or

b) one pair of top-mounted lamps.

4. A retrofitted stop lamp other than a top-mounted lamp is fitted at a height from the ground exceeding 1.5m (or 2.1m where fitting below 1.5m is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle).

5. A pair of top-mounted lamps is not fitted as far as is practicable towards the top corners of the bodywork of the vehicle.

6. A retrofitted pair of lamps is not:

a) symmetrically mounted, or

b) mounted as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

Condition

7. A lamp is insecure.

8. A lens is missing or has a hole, crack or other damage that allows moisture or dirt to enter.

9. A reflector is damaged or has deteriorated so that light output is reduced.

10. A mandatory lamp is obscured, or contains moisture in the form of large droplets, runs or puddles.

Performance

11. When the service brake is activated:

a) a mandatory lamp does not operate, or

b) a lamp does not remain steadily illuminated.

12. A lamp operates when the service brake is not applied.

13. A lamp emits a light that is:

a) not substantially red, or

b) not diffuse, or

c) not projected to the rear, or

d) not approximately equal in colour or intensity from the other lamp in a pair, or

e) not bright enough to produce a light that is visible from 100m in normal daylight, eg due to modification, deterioration, dirt or an incorrect light source.

14. A non-OE mandatory lamp mounted outside the original position emits a light that is not visible within (Figure 4-10-1):

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, or

b) 45° inboard and outboard.

15. A modification to the vehicle has reduced the visibility angles of a mandatory lamp to less than (Figure 4-10-1):

a) 15° above and below the horizontal, or

b) 45° inboard and outboard.

16. On a vehicle of American specification fitted with combined stop and direction indicator lamps, the stop lamp function is not overridden by the indicator function.

17. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), fewer than 75% of these operate.

Figure 4-10-1. Stop lamp visibility angles

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004.

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 January 1978 must be fitted with one or two pairs of stop lamps.

2. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 1978:

a) may be fitted with one stop lamp or one or two pairs of stop lamps, or

b) must be fitted with one stop lamp or one or two pairs of stop lamps if the vehicle is so constructed that it prevents the driver’s arm signal from being seen from behind the vehicle.

3. A retrofitted pair of stop lamps must be symmetrically mounted as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

4. A retrofitted stop lamp must be fitted at a height from the ground not exceeding 1.5m, or if this is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle, not exceeding 2.1m.

5. A vehicle may be fitted at the rear with an additional pair of stop lamps provided they are positioned as close as is practicable to the top of the bodywork of the vehicle (top-mounted lamps).

Condition

6. A stop lamp must:

a) be in sound condition, and

b) not be obscured (if a mandatory lamp).

Performance

7. A stop lamp must operate in a way that is appropriate for the lamp and the vehicle.

8. The light emitted from a stop lamp must be diffuse light that is substantially red.

9. A required stop lamp must operate when a service brake is activated.

10. A required stop lamp must provide sufficient light output to be visible from 100m.

11. A stop lamp must emit a steady light.

12. A retrofitted mandatory stop lamp must emit a light that is visible within the angles of 15° above and below the horizontal, and 45° inboard and outboard.

13. If a vehicle of American specification is fitted with combined stop and direction indicator lamps, the indicator lamps must override the stop lamps so that the stop lamps will operate as direction indicators.

14. Where a stop lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), at least 75% of these must operate.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle is not fitted with at least one rear-registration-plate illumination lamp.

Condition

2. A lamp is insecure.

3. A lens is missing, or has a hole, crack or other damage that allows moisture or dirt to enter.

4. A reflector, or lens, is damaged or has deteriorated so that light output is reduced.

Performance

5. The lamp emits a light that is not:

a) substantially white, or

b) steady, or

c) diffuse.

6. The lamp does not illuminate the registration plate (eg either the lamp or plate have been moved, or the lamps orientation has been changed).

7. The light source of a lamp is visible from the rear of the vehicle.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004.

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle must be fitted with at least one rear-registration-plate illumination lamp.

Performance

2. A rear-registration-plate illumination lamp must operate in a way that is appropriate for the lamp and the vehicle.

3. A lamp must emit a diffuse light that is substantially white.

4. A rear-registration-plate illumination lamp must emit a steady light.

5. The light source of the lamp must not be visible from the rear of the vehicle.

6. A lamp must illuminate the figures and letters of the plate so that they are visible from 20m during normal darkness.

7. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), at least 75% of these must operate.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle is:

a) not fitted with at least one rearward-facing reflector on each side, or

b) fitted with a rearward-facing reflector that is not in a pair.

2. A reflector is not positioned to the rear of the vehicle.

3. A retrofitted reflector is fitted at a height from the ground exceeding 1.5m (or 2.1m where fitting below 1.5 m is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle).

4. A retrofitted pair of reflectors is not:

a) symmetrically mounted, or

b) mounted as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

Condition

5. A mandatory reflector’s ability to reflect light is affected by excessive:

a) fading, or

b) scratching or other damage.

6. A mandatory reflector is obscured.

Performance

7. The reflected light from a mandatory reflector is not visible from 100m.

8. The reflected light from a reflector is not red.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004.

Mandatory and permitted equipment

1. A vehicle must be fitted with at least one pair of rearward-facing reflectors at a height from the ground not exceeding 1.5m, or if this is not practicable due to the shape of the bodywork of the vehicle, not exceeding 2.1m.

2. A rearward-facing reflector must be positioned to the rear of the vehicle.

3. A reflector must be of an area that allows it to reflect light to improve the visibility of the vehicle to other road users, but it must not cause them undue dazzle or discomfort.

4. A retrofitted pair of reflectors must be symmetrically mounted as far towards each side of the vehicle as is practicable.

Condition

5. A mandatory reflector must be in good condition and not be obscured.

Performance

6. A reflector must operate in a way that is appropriate for the reflector and the vehicle.

7. A reflector must reflect white light as substantially red light.

8. A reflector must provide sufficient light reflection to fulfil its intended purpose.

Reasons for rejection

Glazing condition

1. A piece of glazing is not mechanically sound, or is not securely affixed to the vehicle.

2. A windscreen or front-side window is so dirty or obstructed that the driver’s vision is unreasonably impaired.

3. A windscreen has damage that prevents the wiper blades from working properly.

4. A windscreen has scratches, discoloration or other defects that unreasonably impair the driver’s vision or compromise the strength of the windscreen.

Glazing performance

5. A modification has:

a) unreasonably impaired vision through a windscreen or a front-side window, or

b) adversely affected the strength or mechanical performance of the glazing.

Summary of legislation

Glazing condition

1. Glazing must be mechanically sound, strong and securely affixed to the vehicle.

2. A windscreen and front-side windows must be clean and free of obstruction to ensure the driver has sufficient vision through the glazing to operate the vehicle safely.

3. A windscreen must not have scratches and other defects that:

a) unreasonably impair vision, or

b) compromise its strength.

4. A laminated windscreen must not show signs of discoloration that could unreasonably impair the driver’s vision.

5. Glazing in roof panels may be tinted.

6. Overlays must not have any bubbling or other defects that could unreasonably impair vision.

Glazing performance

7. A modification must not:

a) unreasonably impair vision through a windscreen or a front-side window, nor

b) adversely affect the strength or mechanical performance of the glazing or the vehicle.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle with a windscreen is not fitted with a sun visor for the driver’s use if it is reasonable and practical to do so (Note 1).

Condition

2. A sun visor:

a) is insecurely mounted, or

b) for the driver cannot be adjusted from the normal driving position, or

c) cannot maintain its adjusted position, or

d) has been modified or has deteriorated, and the likelihood of injury to vehicle occupants has not been minimised.

Performance

3. A driver’s sun visor does not effectively aid the driver’s vision by intercepting the glare from the sun.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Equipment 2004
• Land Transport Rule: Interior Impact 2001.

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle with a windscreen must be fitted with a sun visor for the driver’s use if it is reasonable and practicable to do so (Note 1).

Permitted equipment

2. Additional sun visors may be fitted in other positions.

Sun visor performance

3. A driver’s sun visor must be effective.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle that has a windscreen is not fitted with a windscreen wipe system.

2. A vehicle manufactured on or after 1 January 2001 that is fitted with a windscreen is not fitted with a windscreen wash system.

3. A vehicle manufactured on or after 1 January 1960 is fitted with wipers that are not power driven.

Condition

Windscreen wipe system

4. The wiper operating device is missing.

5. A wiper arm or wiper blade is:

a) missing, or

b) insecure, or

c) damaged so as to affect the performance of the wipers.

6. The wiper operating mechanism is:

a) missing, or

b) insecure, or

c) damaged so as to affect the performance of the wipers.

Windscreen wash system

7. A wash system component is missing or insecure.

8. The wash operating device is missing.

Performance

Windscreen wipe system

9. A windscreen wiper does not wipe the windscreen effectively, preventing adequate forward vision by the driver.

10. The wipe operating device is unable to activate the wipe system.

Windscreen wash system

11. A windscreen wash nozzle does not discharge washer liquid directly onto the windscreen.

12. The wash operating device is unable to activate the wash system.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Glazing, Windscreen Wipe and Wash, and Mirrors 1999.

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle manufactured before 1 January 2001 that is fitted with a windscreen must have a windscreen wipe system.

2. A vehicle manufactured on or after 1 January 2001 that is fitted with a windscreen must have a windscreen wipe and wash system.

3. Windscreen wipers must be power driven, unless they follow OE specifications in a vehicle manufactured before 1 January 1960.

Permitted equipment

4. A vehicle may be fitted with a wash system when this is not required.

Condition

5. A vehicle’s windscreen wipe system must be efficient and within the vehicle manufacturer’s operating limits.

Performance

6. The equipment fitted must be capable of keeping an adequate area of the windscreen clean and clear so that the vehicle may be operated safely under all reasonably foreseeable conditions.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle fitted with a permanent cab is not fitted with a rear-view mirror.

2. A vehicle with tint film overlays on a rear or rear-side window is not fitted with an exterior rear-view mirror on each side.

Condition

3. A rear-view mirror:

a) is not mounted securely, or

b) cannot be adjusted, or

c) cannot maintain its adjusted position, or

d) is corroded or dirty, or

e) is damaged so that it increases the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.

Performance

4. A rear-view mirror:

a) does not provide a clear view to the rear of the vehicle, or

b) is not sufficiently isolated from vibrations.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Glazing, Windscreen Wipe and Wash, and Mirrors 1999.

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle must be fitted with a rear-view mirror.

2. A vehicle with tint film overlays on the rear or rear -side windows must be fitted with a left-hand and a right-hand exterior mirror.

Permitted equipment

3. Additional rear-view mirrors may be fitted.

Condition

4. A rear-view mirror must be:

a) securely attached so that the risk of injury is minimised, and

b) mounted so that vibration does not inhibit the driver’s required clear view to the rear, and

c) sufficiently adjustable, and able to maintain its position.

Performance

5. A rear-view mirror must provide a clear view to the rear of:

a) the motor vehicle itself, and

b) the vehicle’s load, and

c) any towed trailer and its load.

6. A rear-view mirror must be sufficiently isolated from vibrations.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle fitted with doors used by the driver or passengers for entrance and exit of the vehicle does not have a door retention system.

Equipment condition

2. A hinge for a door or other hinged panel is not securely attached to both the vehicle body and to the door or other hinged panel, eg due to loose connections, corrosion or other damage.

3. A door used for entrance and exit of the driver or passengers cannot be opened from the inside.

Equipment performance

4. A door used for entrance and exit of the driver or passengers does not open or close easily, eg a door is sticking or requires unreasonable force to open.

5. A door or other hinged panel does not remain secure in a closed or locked position.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Door Retention Systems 2001
• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002, section 7.4.

Mandatory equipment

1. A motor vehicle fitted with doors used by the driver or passengers for entrance and exit of the motor vehicle must have a door retention system.

Condition

2. A door retention system and its mountings must be safe and structurally sound.

3. A door used for the entrance and exit of the driver or passengers must be operable by any occupant seated by the door from inside the motor vehicle.

4. The vehicle must be designed and constructed using components and materials that are fit for their purpose, and within safe tolerance of their state when manufactured or modified.

Performance

5. A door retention system must be in good working order.

6. A door used for entrance and exit must open and close easily.

7. A door used for entrance and exit must remain secure in a closed position during the operation of the vehicle.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. The vehicle is not fitted with a driver’s seat.

2. A seat is not attached to the vehicle structure by seat anchorages.

Condition and performance

3. A seat frame or structure has been weakened, eg due to damage, corrosion or excessive wear.

4. The adjustment mechanism of a driver’s seat:

a) does not operate, or

b) is worn, causing excessive movement of the seat.

5. The attachment of the seat to the seat anchorage is loose or weakened by damage.

6. The attachment of the seat anchorage to the vehicle structure is loose or weakened by damage.

7. The driver’s seat is in such a condition that it does not allow the driver to have proper control of the vehicle.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Seats and Seat Anchorages 2002.

Mandatory equipment

1. A motor vehicle must be fitted with a driver’s seat.

2. A seat in a motor vehicle must be fitted to the vehicle structure by means of seat anchorages.

Condition and performance

3. Seats and seat anchorages must be safe, strong, in sound condition and compatible in strength with each other and with the vehicle structure.

4. The driver’s seat and its anchorages must be designed, constructed and maintained to enable the driver to have proper control of the vehicle.

5. Seats and seat anchorages must be securely attached to the vehicle structure.

6. When a seatbelt or any part of the seatbelt is integral to a seat, the seat and seat anchorages must be compatible in strength with the seatbelt or with that part of the seatbelt attached to the seat.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 December 1951 that is capable of a speed exceeding 50km/h is not fitted with a speedometer, and the vehicle operator cannot produce acceptable written evidence (Note 2) that:

a) the speedometer has been removed for repair, or

b) there are no undue delays by the vehicle owner in having the speedometer replaced.

Condition and performance

2. A mandatory speedometer:

a) does not operate as intended when the vehicle is moving forward (Note 3), or

b) is obscured from the driver’s position, or

c) does not indicate the vehicle’s speed in km/h or mph.

3. Reason for rejection 2(a), 2(b) or 2(c) applies and the vehicle operator cannot produce acceptable written evidence (Note 2) that repair of the speedometer or associated equipment is impracticable or that a suitable replacement is not available.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Equipment 2004.

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 December 1951 that is capable of a speed exceeding 50km/h must be fitted with a speedometer (Note 1).

2. A vehicle is not required to have a speedometer if the speedometer or associated equipment:

a) has been removed for repair and there are no undue delays by the vehicle owner in having it replaced, or

b) is out of repair, repair is impracticable and a suitable replacement is not available.

Performance

3. A mandatory speedometer must be in good working order and operate while the vehicle is moving forward.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A motor vehicle is:

a) not fitted with a horn, or

b) fitted with a bell, whistle or siren that is not part of an anti-theft car alarm, personal security alarm or a reversing warning device.

Performance

2. The horn does not operate when activated.

3. The horn operates when not activated.

4. The sound from the horn is not steady and continuous, eg the horn plays a tune.

5. The horn is not audible at a distance of 100m.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Equipment 2004

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle must be fitted with a device (horn) that is audible to other road users.

Permitted equipment

2. A vehicle may be fitted with a bell, whistle or siren that is part of an anti-theft car alarm, personal security alarm or a reversing warning device.

Performance

3. The device must be in good working order.

4. The device must be capable of giving a warning that is audible under normal traffic conditions from a distance of at least 100m.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

Service brake (Note 1)

1. A vehicle does not have a service brake that acts on the wheels as designed by the vehicle manufacturer.

2. A light tractor manufactured on or after 1 January 1990 and not capable of exceeding a speed of 40km/h does not have a service brake designed to act on the wheels that are intended to provide traction.

Parking brake (Note 1)

3. A vehicle does not have a parking brake.

4. A parking brake does not act on at least one complete axle.

5. Where dual wheels are fitted, a parking brake does not act on at least one axle that has dual wheels fitted.

Condition

Service brake

6. There is corrosion damage (Note 2) within 150mm of a brake component mounting point.

7. The service brake pedal:

a) is insecure, or

b) is spongy (indicating air in the system), or

c) creeps, or

d) has a non-slip surface which has deteriorated to such an extent that the brake cannot be safely applied, or

e) has excessive travel (pedal travel reduces after one or two applications).

8. The brake pedal locking attachment on a tractor with split brake pedals is insecure, damaged or has deteriorated to such an extent that it is no longer fit for purpose.

9. The brake master cylinder is:

a) leaking brake fluid, or

b) insecure, or

c) excessively corroded.

10. A brake valve is:

a) not operating (eg has a seized-load sensing valve), or

b) leaking brake fluid, or

c) insecure, or

d) excessively corroded.

11. A brake pipe (including connections) is:

a) leaking brake fluid, or

b) insecure, or

c) deformed from its original shape, or

d) chafed, or

e) excessively corroded, eg there are signs of pitting or a noticeable increase in the pipe’s outside diameter.

12. A flexible hydraulic brake hose (including connections):

a) is leaking brake fluid, or

b) is insecure, or

c) bulges under pressure, or

d) is twisted, stretched or chafed, or

e) has external sheathing which is cracked to the extent that the reinforcing cords are exposed, or

f) has metal connections that are excessively corroded, or

g) has an end fitting that is not attached to the hose by means of swaging, machine crimping or a similar process (Note 3).

13. A brake calliper:

a) shows visible signs of leaking, or

b) is insecure.

14. A brake backing plate is:

a) insecure, or

b) severely corroded, or

c) deformed from its original shape, or

d) cracked, or

e) contaminated by brake fluid, oil or grease.

15. A wheel cylinder:

a) shows visible signs of leaking, or

b) is insecure, or

c) is seized.

16. An ABS system component is damaged, insecure or missing.

17. A brake disc or drum is:

a) worn beyond manufacturer’s specifications (where visible without removing vehicle components), or

b) fractured or otherwise damaged (where visible without removing vehicle components), or

c) contaminated by brake fluid, oil or grease.

18. Brake friction material (where visible without removing vehicle components) is:

a) worn below manufacturer’s specifications, or

b) separating from the brake pad backing plate or brake shoe, or

c) contaminated by brake fluid, oil or grease.

19. A service brake component shows signs of heating or welding after original manufacture.

Parking brake

20. The parking brake lever:

a) has excessive travel, or

b) is insecure, or

c) mounting is damaged, corroded, distorted or fractured within 150mm of the lever mounting, or

d) mechanism or lever pivot bearing is worn or damaged so that the parking brake could be easily released by accident.

21. The parking brake cable:

a) is knotted, frayed or excessively corroded, or

b) has an auxiliary tensioner fitted, or

c) has otherwise deteriorated so that it may affect the parking brake performance.

22. A parking brake actuating rod or guide:

a) is excessively corroded, or

b) is excessively worn, or

c) has otherwise deteriorated so that it may affect the parking brake performance.

23. A parking brake component shows signs of heating or welding after original manufacture.

24. The locking mechanism on a service brake that is designed to be locked in applied position (Note 1):

a) is missing a component, or

b) does not operate, or operates incorrectly, or

c) is insecure, damaged or has significantly deteriorated.

Performance

Service brake

25. The service brake cannot be applied in a controlled and progressive manner.

26. When the service brake is applied without assistance from the engine, a vehicle does not stop within 7m from a speed of 30km/h (50% efficiency) except in the following cases:

a) a heavy vehicle manufactured before 1 February 1977 with a service brake that is designed to act on fewer than 4 wheels does not stop within 9m from a speed of 30km/h (40% average brake efficiency), or

b) a light tractor manufactured before 1 January 1990 does not stop in a manner that is reasonable for the type of service brake fitted.

27. When the service brake is applied:

a) the vehicle vibrates under braking to the extent that the control of the vehicle is adversely affected, or

b) the brake fails to release immediately after the brake pedal has been released, or

c) the directional control is affected (eg there is swerving to one side, or the brakes on one side apply more slowly than on the other side).

28. The ABS or brake system warning lamp or self-check system, if fitted, indicates a defect in the ABS or brake system (does not apply to brake pad wear warning systems).

Parking brake

29. When the parking brake is applied:

a) the vehicle does not stop within 18m from a speed of 30km/h (average brake efficiency of 20%), or

b) it does not hold the vehicle at rest on a slope of 1 in 5, or

c) it does not hold all the wheels on a common axle stationary against attempts to drive the vehicle away.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Light-Vehicle Brakes 2002
• Land Transport Rule: Heavy-Vehicle Brakes 2008.

Mandatory equipment

Service brake

1. Vehicles must have a service brake that acts on the wheels as designed by the vehicle manufacturer, except that a light tractor manufactured on or after 1 January 1990 with a maximum speed of 40km/h or less must have a service brake that acts on the wheels that are intended to provide traction.

Parking brake

2. A light vehicle must have a parking brake that:

a) acts on at least one complete axle, or

b) if the vehicle has dual wheels on an axle, acts on that axle.

3. A heavy vehicle must have a parking brake.

Permitted equipment

4. A vehicle may be fitted with a warning system that is part of, or associated with, the use of a brake component or system.

Condition

5. A brake must be in good condition and within safe tolerance of its state when manufactured.

6. The brake friction surfaces must be within safe tolerance of their state when manufactured, and must not be scored, weakened or damaged to the extent that the safety performance of the brake is adversely affected.

Performance

7. The service brake must be able to be applied in a controlled and progressive manner.

8. When the brake on a vehicle is applied:

a) the vehicle or its controls must not vibrate to the extent that control of the vehicle is adversely affected, and

b) the braking effort on each wheel must provide stable and efficient braking without adverse effect on the directional control of the vehicle, and

c) if the vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), the wheels must not lock, other than when the speed of the vehicle falls below the ABS activation parameters set by the vehicle manufacturer.

9. A brake warning system must function correctly (does not apply to a brake pad wear warning system).

Service brake

10. The service brake of a vehicle or vehicle combination that is operated on a hard, dry, level surface that is free of loose material and without assistance from the compression of the engine or other retarders must operate in the following manner:

a) a service brake must stop the vehicle within a distance of 7m from a speed of 30km/h (average brake efficiency of 50%), with the exception of:

i. a service brake, that is designed to act on less than four wheels on a heavy vehicle first registered anywhere before 1 February 1977, must stop the vehicle within a distance of 9m from a speed of 30km/h (average brake efficiency of 40%), and

ii. a service brake on a light tractor manufactured before 1 January 1990 must stop the vehicle in a manner that is reasonable for the type of service brake fitted.

Parking brake

11. A parking brake must:

a) stop the vehicle within 18m from a speed of 30km/h (average brake efficiency of 20%), or

b) hold the vehicle at rest on a slope of 1 in 5.

Reasons for rejection

Condition

1. The steering wheel:

a) is insecurely attached to the steering shaft, or

b) shows excessive movement, indicating unacceptable wear or looseness in the steering box or rack or steering column bearings, or

c) rim covering is insecure so that the directional control of the vehicle is affected.

2. The steering column is insecure.

3. The power steering:

a) has been disconnected, or

b) system does not operate correctly, requiring unreasonable force to steer the vehicle, or

c) has a hose, pump drive, drive belt or pump mounting that is insecure, damaged, has significantly deteriorated, or

d) has a significant fluid leak.

4. The hydrostatic steering system:

a) has been disconnected, or

b) does not operate correctly, eg requiring unreasonable force to steer the vehicle, or

c) has a hose, pump drive, drive belt or cylinder, including their mountings, that is insecure, damaged or has significantly deteriorated, or

d) has fluid leakage, except for minor seepage.

5. A linkage or joint between the steering column shaft and steering box or rack:

a) is insecure, or

b) is damaged, significantly corroded, distorted or cracked, or

c) shows signs of welding or heating after original manufacture, or

d) has play beyond manufacturer’s specifications, or does not operate smoothly without roughness or stiffness, or

e) is fouling on the vehicle structure, wheel, tyre or brake system component.

7. The steering box or rack:

a) is insecure, or

b) is damaged, significantly corroded, distorted or cracked, or

c) shows signs of welding or heating after original manufacture, or

d) has play beyond manufacturer’s specifications, or

e) does not operate smoothly without roughness or stiffness, or

f) has an excessive fluid leak.

7. A steering rack gaiter is missing, insecure or split.

8. A steering linkage or joint (Note 2):

a) is insecure, or

b) is damaged, significantly corroded, distorted or cracked, or

c) shows signs of welding or heating after original manufacture, or

d) has play beyond manufacturer’s specifications, or

e) does not operate smoothly without roughness or stiffness, or

f) is fouling on the vehicle structure, wheel tyre or brake system component, or

g) shows signs of plastic injection.

9. A steering arm or associated component:

a) is insecure, or

b) is damaged, significantly corroded, distorted or cracked, or

c) shows signs of welding or heating after original manufacture.

10. A kingpin or suspension joint (Note 2):

a) is insecure, or

b) is damaged, significantly corroded, distorted or cracked, or

c) shows signs of welding or heating after original manufacture, or

d) has play beyond the manufacturer’s specifications, or

e) does not operate smoothly without roughness or stiffness, or

f) shows signs of plastic injection.

11. A lock stop is loose or damaged.

12. A steering or suspension component mounting point:

a) is insecure, or

b) has corrosion damage, buckling or fractures within 150mm of a mounting point.

13. Any other suspension component:

a) is insecure or missing, or

b) is damaged, significantly corroded, distorted or cracked, or

c) shows signs of welding or heating after original manufacture, or

d) has play beyond manufacturer’s specifications, or

e) does not operate smoothly without roughness or stiffness, or

f) has excessive leakage of damping fluid (Technical bulletin 9), or

g) shows excessive play, roughness or stiffness in a strut upper support bearing, or

h) is a replacement urethane suspension bush that is not voided or shaped to allow for similar movement to an OE bush.

14. There is corrosion damage (Note 3) within 150mm of a suspension component mounting point.

Performance

15. During operation the vehicle cannot be controlled in a safe, efficient, convenient and sensitive manner, eg:

a) the vehicle veers significantly to one side, or

b) the vehicle requires unreasonable force to steer, or

c) the steering is unreasonably stiff, rough or light, or

d) the vehicle does not handle safely under normal conditions of road use, eg the suspension is excessively hard or soft, or there is excessive body roll.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Steering Systems 2001.

Condition

1. The steering system and associated systems and components that directly or indirectly affect the directional control of the vehicle must be:

a) sound and in good condition, and

b) strong, durable and fit for their purpose, taking into account whether adverse effects have resulted from a loss of integrity of any protective system used by a relevant component.

Performance

2. The steering system and associated systems and components that directly or indirectly affect the directional control of the vehicle must provide the vehicle with safe, efficient, convenient and sensitive control.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

Tyres

1. A tyre has a speed category (Table 10-1-1) that is less than the speed limit for the vehicle or less than the vehicle’s maximum speed if this is less than the speed limit (Note 2) (Note 3).

2. A tyre is not compatible with the vehicle to which it is fitted, eg a tyre that is marked with any of the following:

a) ‘FOR TRAILER USE ONLY’

b) ‘ADV’ (Agricultural Drawn Vehicle)

c) ‘RACING PURPOSES ONLY’.

Wheels

3. A wheel is:

a) not compatible with the vehicle to which it is fitted, or

b) not correctly attached to the vehicle.

Condition

Tyres (excluding spare tyres)

4.There are signs that a tyre is fouling on another part of the vehicle.

5. A tyre shows damage that is likely to compromise its ability to operate in a safe manner or lead to premature tyre failure, such as:

a) a lump or bulge that is likely to be caused by separation of the tyre structure, or

b) a cut or crack in a side wall or tread more than 25mm long that reaches the cords (see (Note 5) for visible cords in the tread area of heavy vehicle radial-ply tyres), or

c) exposed or cut cords (see (Note 5) for visible cords in the tread area of heavy vehicle radial-ply tyres), or

d) the tread of a retreaded tyre shows signs of separation, or

e) nails or other sharp objects embedded in the tyre, or

f) significant perishing, eg due to age, moisture or exposure.

6. A tyre has a string type repair visible from the outside.

7. Tyre repairs have not been carried out in accordance with acceptable industry parctice.

8. A tyre has insufficient tread to allow safe operation of the vehicle.

Wheels

9. There are signs that a wheel is fouling on another part of the vehicle.

10. A wheel is:

a) cracked, or

b) significantly damaged, distorted or has deteriorated, or

c) not securely attached to the hub.

11. A device used to attach dual-wheel sets is insecure, damaged, significantly deteriorated or cannot be locked or remain locked.

12. A wheel weight is not securely attached to the wheel.

13. A wheel nut:

a) is missing, or

b) is loose, or

c) has deteriorated, or

d) is the incorrect type, or

e) has insufficient thread engagement to the wheel stud, or

f) is an aftermarket wheel nut made from aluminium.

Table 10-1-1. Tyre speed symbol categories

Speed symbol – speed category (km/h)
A1 – 5	A5 – 25	B – 50	F – 80	L – 120	Q – 160	U – 200	Y – 300
A2 – 10	A6 – 30	C – 60	G – 90	M – 130	R – 170	H – 210	ZR – over 240
A3 – 15	A7 – 35	D – 65	J – 100	N – 140	S – 180	V – 240
A4 – 20	A8 – 40	E – 70	K – 110	P – 150	T – 190	W – 270

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Tyres and Wheels 2001.

Mandatory equipment

Tyres

1. Tyres must be compatible with the vehicle to which they are fitted.

2. The speed category of a tyre must be compatible with the maximum legal speed limit for the vehicle, or the vehicle’s maximum speed.

Wheels

3. A wheel must be:

a) securely attached to the hub, and

b) sufficiently strong for the type of vehicle to which it is fitted, and

c) compatible with the vehicle to which it is fitted, and

d) compatible with the tyre rim profile, flange height and valve fitment.

4. There must be adequate clearance for the brake, hub, suspension and steering mechanism, and body parts.

Permitted equipment

5. A vehicle may be fitted with retreaded tyres.

Condition

Tyres (excluding spare tyres)

6. A tyre must be of good quality and construction, fit for its purpose and maintained in a safe condition.

7. A tyre must not have worn, damaged or visible cords apparent by external examination.

8. A heavy vehicle radial-ply tyre may have visible cords in the tyre tread area provided the tyre is in a safe condition. To assess whether such a tyre is in a safe condition, the vehicle inspector may take into account written evidence from a person who has current specialist tyre knowledge and experience, particularly in heavy vehicle tyre inspection.

9. A tyre must have a tread pattern depth of not less than 1.5mm (excluding any tie-bar or tread-depth indicator strip):

a) within all principal grooves that contain tread-depth indicators, or

b) if the tyre does not normally have tread-depth indicators, across at least three-quarters of the tyre tread width.

10. The regrooving of a tyre is permitted only if the tyre is identified as having been specifically designed for regrooving after manufacture.

11. A tyre that is fitted to a vehicle must be maintained at a safe inflation pressure.

Wheels

12. The components of the wheel assembly must be in good condition.

13. The wheel must be securely attached to the hub.

Reasons for rejection

Condition

1. A hub (Note 1):

a) is not securely attached to the vehicle, or

b) has a visible crack, or

c) is significantly damaged, distorted or has deteriorated, or

d) has a broken or missing wheel stud.

2. A wheel bearing:

a) has play beyond the manufacturer’s specifications, or

b) is over-tight or binding, or

c) feels/sounds rough when rotated.

3. An axle:

a) is insecure, eg has loose U-bolts, or

b) is visibly cracked, or

c) is significantly damaged, distorted or has deteriorated, or

d) shows signs of welding or heating after original manufacture, or

e) shows signs of fouling the vehicle structure or a brake, suspension or steering component.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Tyres and Wheels 2001

Condition

1. The components of the assembly must be in good condition.

2. The hub and axle must be sufficiently strong for the type of vehicle to which they are fitted.

3. The hub and axle must have a suitable and correctly adjusted geometry.

Reasons for rejection

Mudguard condition

1. A mudguard is not securely fixed to the vehicle.

2. A mudguard is so constructed or damaged that it is likely to present a hazard to road users.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Equipment 2004.

Permitted equipment

1. A vehicle may be fitted with a mudguard over each road wheel (Note 1).

Mudguard condition

2. A mudguard must be securely fixed to the vehicle and must be constructed so that it does not present a hazard to road users.

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A vehicle is not fitted with an exhaust system that includes a means of sound reduction (Note 1).

Condition

2. An exhaust system is not securely mounted.

3. The exhaust system is so constructed or modified that its operation or effectiveness can be readily interfered with.

4. The exhaust system is so constructed that emitted heat or fumes are likely to harm vehicle occupants, eg the exhaust gases are not directed away from the perimeter of the vehicle’s passenger compartment.

Performance

5. There is a leak of exhaust fumes from the exhaust system.

6. The noise output is noticeably and significantly louder than it would have been when the vehicle was manufactured with its original exhaust system.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Equipment 2004.

Mandatory equipment

1. A forklift with an internal combustion engine must be fitted with an exhaust system (Note 1).

Condition

2. An exhaust system must not be constructed or modified in a way that allows a person to interfere readily with its operation or reduce its effectiveness.

3. An exhaust system must be designed, constructed, positioned and maintained in a way that minimises the risk of heat or fumes emitted from the system harming the vehicle’s occupants.

Performance

4. An exhaust system must be effective and in good working order.

5. Noise from an exhaust system must not be noticeably and significantly louder than it would have been when the vehicle was manufactured with its original exhaust system.

Reasons for rejection

Performance

1. A vehicle with the engine at normal operating temperature emits clearly visible smoke (Note 2) from the exhaust tail pipe during a rapid acceleration test (Note 1).

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Exhaust Emissions 2007.

Performance

1. A tractor must not emit clearly visible smoke when the engine is running at its normal operating temperature, under the following condition:

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A tractor with a towing connection other than a three-point linkage does not have an attachment point to which a safety chain can be securely attached.

Condition

2. A towing connection component:

a) is not securely attached, or

b) is missing, or

c) is cracked, distorted or significantly corroded, or

d) has corrosion damage within 150mm of the mounting points, or

e) is worn beyond manufacturer’s specifications.

3. A coupling pin:

a) has a diameter that is:

i. not appropriate for the diameter of the coupling, or

ii. less than 75% of the diameter of the larger of the coupling holes, or

b) does not have a retaining mechanism, or

c) is welded or repaired.

4. A coupling mechanism or safety locking device does not operate smoothly or effectively, or fasten securely.

5. A towing hook is:

a) welded or repaired, or

b) is worn at any point beyond the lesser of:

i. the coupling manufacturer’s wear limits (if available), or

ii. 10% of the original dimensions.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Heavy Vehicles 2004
• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002, section 7.4.

Mandatory equipment

1. A tractor used to tow an agricultural trailer must have an attachment point to which a safety chain can be securely connected.

Permitted equipment

2. A tractor may be fitted with a towing connection that is a three-point linkage.

3. A vehicle other than a tractor may be fitted with a towing connection.

4. A tractor used to tow an agricultural trailer must have an attachment point to which a safety chain can be securely connected.

5. A coupling pin must:

a) be of a diameter that is appropriate for the diameter of the tractor or trailer coupling, whichever has the smaller diameter hole, and

b) have a diameter that is not less than 75% of the diameter of the larger of the coupling holes, and

c) have a retaining mechanism.

Condition

6. Towing connection components fitted to a vehicle must ensure that a secure connection can be maintained between the towing and towed vehicles under all conditions of loading and operations for which the vehicle was constructed.

7. Towing connection components must be fit for purpose and in sound condition.

8. A vehicle must:

a) be safe to be operated, and

b) have been constructed using components and materials that are fit for that purpose, and

c) be within safe tolerance of their state when manufactured.

Reasons for rejection

Condition

1. There is a noticeable fuel leak from the fuel system.

2. The security of the fuel tank is affected by:

a) corrosion damage (Note 1), or

b) cracking or other damage, or

c) insecure or loose tank mountings.

3. A fuel line is insecure or loose so that it is likely to be damaged during normal use of the vehicle.

4. A fuel pipe is severely damaged or excessively corroded.

5. A fuel hose is damaged or perished.

6. The fuel pump is insecure.

7. The fuel filler cap is missing, insecure or likely to allow fuel spillage when the vehicle is in normal use.

8. The fuel tank is fitted with a ‘temporary use’ fuel filler cap.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Equipment 2004.

Condition and performance

1. Fuel tanks, fuel lines and associated components must be:

a) securely mounted, and

b) made of suitable materials, and

c) in good condition, and

d) free from significant leaks, and

e) positioned so that the risk of mechanical damage or heat gain is minimised.