Inspection and certification process

3-5 Repair instructions

The repairer certifier must issue written instructions specifying the repairs to be performed in order for the vehicle to be certified.

The repair certifier and the repairer must take into account manufacturer’s instructions where available, including specifications, measurements, tolerances, materials, methods and procedures. It is the repair certifier’s responsibility to justify any departure from the manufacturer’s instructions.

If the manufacturer’s instructions are not available, the repair certifier and the repairer must take into account the instructions of a recognised repair research organisation relevant to the vehicle type, such as R-Car, I-Car, or Thatcham. In this case it is the repair certifier’s responsibility to justify any departure from these instructions.

The certifier may certify repairs where no proof of the methods and parts used can be obtained, if he or she determines, on reasonable grounds, that the repairs have returned the vehicle to safe tolerance of its condition when manufactured or modified.

It is the repair certifier's responsibility to ensure that a repair on a vehicle manufactured post-1 January 1990 has been carried out in accordance with the repair instructions that have been issued. This means that the repairer of the vehicle has supplied evidence to the certifier of the following items:

  • Relevant industry qualifications (National Certificate in panel beating or another qualification considered to be the equivalent by the NZQA)
  • Proof of recognized ongoing industry training (I-CAR, Thatcham, manufacturer courses, etc)
  • Current welding certificates (AS/NZS 1554), qualified welding certificate, or I-CAR welding certificate to carry out welding repairs to the appropriate standard
  • Relevant welding equipment
  • Vehicle hoist and sufficient suitable lighting
  • Calibrated three-dimensional measuring or jig-alignment system
  • Up-to-date chassis and measuring training certificates and data sheets
  • Workshop equipment appropriate to carry out quality repairs.
  • Occupational Safety and Health requirements, and any other relevant Acts, regulations, and local bylaws.

See also:

3-10 Evidence of repair and inspection process
5: Inspection premises and equipment

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