If you have a vehicle in Melbourne, you would have likely heard of roadworthy certificate as much as you can remember. Whether you’re buying, selling or re-registering a car, this little document is non-negotiable and often costs you. But for all its importance, misinformation is everywhere. The myths surrounding roadworthy certificates in Melbourne are the kind that refuse to die; spreading from local garages to internet hearsay they are as persistent as an engine light that will not turn off.
Now we’re lifting the lid on the most common roadworthy certificate myths and sharing the truth behind each one. Strap in — this is going to be a ride.
Myth #1: Having a Roadworthy Certificate Means a Car is in Tip-Top Shape
The biggest myth surrounding roadworthy certificates is the idea of “as good as new”. If a car passes to get it right: a roadworthy certificate just indicates that at the time of its inspection, a vehicle met minimum safety standards.
It is not a complete mechanical inspection. It won’t tell you if an engine is on its last legs or if a transmission is one stop away from total failure. What it does do is make sure the basics — brakes, tyres, suspension, lights and steering — aren’t a risk to you or other motorists.
So, if you’re purchasing a used vehicle and see “RWC included” in the advertisement, don’t presume it’s a flawless jewel. Have a third-party mechanic check it out before you sign on the dotted line.
Myth #2: A Roadworthy Certificate Never Expires
In Melbourne a roadworthy certificate isn’t a ticket to indefinite driving. They assume that once their car is roadworthy, they’re good for life. Sadly, that’s not how it works.
In Victoria, an RWC lasts 30 days from the date of issue. Why? Because a condition of the car can change between day and night. A pothole, a fender bender or simply forgetting to do some basic maintenance can turn an otherwise roadworthy automobile into a rolling safety hazard.
When it comes time to sell your vehicle, months after that RWC is completed, you may need another inspection. Roadworthiness is about the present, not a moment in the past.
Myth #3: Any Mechanic Can Sign Off On A Roadworthy
This is where many unwitting vehicle owners have their feet swept out from underneath them. In Melbourne not every workshop or mechanic has the power to issue roadworthy certificates. Only VIC Roads-licensed vehicle testers are allowed to do that.
That means that if your friendly neighborhood mechanic does a great job, they can’t just sign off on an RWC — unless they’re official. So, check the service provider’s license before scheduling an inspection — otherwise, you may just be wasting money on an invalid piece of paper.
Myth #4: A Roadworthy Certificate Covers All Repairs
This is where it gets interesting. A roadworthy certificate indicates a car is safe to drive, but it does not guarantee that everything under the hood is in fine order. Problems such as oil leaks, minor engine issues or a failing air conditioning system are not necessarily part of the inspection.
The false sense of security many car owners think that passing the test ensures their vehicle is running at its peak performance condition. But roadworthiness concerns safety — not reliability. Your car might not even start on cold mornings, but an RWC won’t make a difference.
Want a complete health check? Request a pre-purchase inspection or logbook service along with your roadworthy test.
Myth #5: No Roadworthy, No Sale
Some sellers believe that they can sell their car “as is,” without an RWC, and avoid the hassle. Though this is technically true but in a private sale, the buyer cannot register the car in their name without it.
This result in lowball offers and reluctant buyers who don’t want to incur the extra expense of getting their own RWC. But if you’re ready to sell, it’s generally a good idea to get the certificate in advance — it smooth’s the transaction and has been shown to boost buyer confidence.
Myth #6: A Certificate of Roadworthiness Is Expensive and Not Worth It
Cost is a major consideration for all car owners and many do not want to pay an expensive RWC. But the actual price depends on what condition your car is in and where you get it inspected.
The average cost of a roadworthy in Melbourne for a standard vehicle ranges from $150 to $250. In case repairs are required, the tab can go up — but that’s not due to the certificate itself. That is because the vehicle was not roadworthy in the first place.
Consider an RWC an investment in safety, your own, and that of other road users as well.
Myth #7: If Your Car Fails the Test, You Must Start Over Myth
A roadworthy that just missed the mark is not the end of the world. This leaves many drivers in a panic, thinking they have to start from the beginning all over again. Fortunately, in Victoria you have a whole week to rectify the issues noted and come back for a re-inspection at no additional cost.
Miss that deadline, and you’ll have to start again from square one — but as long as you’re prompt, you can sidestep unnecessary fees.
Refer this at times when you are looking to buy a car and signing the contract and stuff.
We’ve debunked the myths, but why does all this matter? The significance of roadworthy certificates transcends checking a legal requirement off a list. It’s a vital part of road safety, helping to make sure that unsafe vehicles don’t end up on the street.
A significant percentage of road accidents occur due to mechanical failures, according to statistics. Brakes that forget to grip, old tyres that lose their grip on wet surfaces, or dysfunctional lights that can’t illuminate the road ahead — all these can lead to catastrophes.
The objective of the government conducting inspections on roadworthy vehicles is to ensure that all vehicles on the road meet a minimum standard of road safety, thus preventing accidents that could have been avoided.
What Is a Roadworthy Certificate in Melbourne?
If you are in need of an RWC, ensure that you select a licensed vehicle tester like Tyre World Automotive Services. We have over 25 years of experience and offer roadworthy inspections, general servicing and tyre repairs to make sure you’re not only legal, but safe on the road.
Here are some tips to remember when booking an inspection:
Common failure points: Worn tyres, faulty brakes and fuel leaks are the big ones.
Address minor issues in advance: Loose seatbelts, cracked windscreens and blown bulbs can all be addressed in a timely manner.
These problems need to be serviced before-hand, so make sure you visit an authorized and trusted workshop so that you can avoid a last-minute panic.
Final Thoughts
Melbourne roadworthy certificates misinformation is plentiful, but now you know the real deal. A RWC is required for safety and legality but it’s not a golden ticket of perfection. It won’t cover everything forever or promise a car’s longevity.
Even so, we cannot stress the importance of a roadworthy certificate enough—it protects drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Now you know the proper fix. The next time somebody drops roadworthy certificate myths.you have a backup.
Need an inspection? Tyre World Automotive Services to the rescue, because safety should not be a toss-up. Book your slot or get a free quote Contact Us
Call Us Today : +61 3 8361 9454
Email Us: andrew@tyreworldas.com.au
