What Happens If Your Vehicle Fails a Compliance Inspection in NZ | FastTrack Compliance

If your vehicle doesn’t pass its compliance inspection, don’t panic — it’s a common situation and often fixable. Understanding what went wrong, what to do next, and how to avoid future issues can save you time, money, and stress.

At FastTrack Compliance, we work closely with VINZ inspectors on-site to help drivers, importers, and dealers through the re-inspection process quickly and correctly.

Why Vehicles Fail Compliance Inspections

A failed inspection simply means your vehicle didn’t meet one or more of the NZTA’s safety or emissions standards.
The most frequent causes include:

• Structural rust or damage (chassis or underbody corrosion)
• Braking or steering faults
• Seatbelt or airbag system issues
• Lighting or indicator failures
• Unapproved modifications (wheels, suspension, or performance upgrades)
• Incorrect or missing documentation for imports or ownership

Most of these problems are fixable once you understand what the inspector found.

Step-by-Step: What to Do After a Failed Inspection

1. Review Your Compliance Report

You’ll receive a detailed report explaining why the vehicle didn’t pass. Each issue is coded by severity so you can prioritise what needs attention.

2. Arrange Repairs or Adjustments

Take the report to your mechanic or panel beater. They’ll complete the required work and sign off any repairs that relate to structural or safety systems.

3. Keep All Invoices and Records

Documentation proves that the work was completed to NZTA standards. Keep receipts, certificates, and photos of any repairs.

4. Book a Re-Inspection

Once repairs are complete, return for your re-inspection on-site at FastTrack Compliance. The VINZ team will check the corrected items only, which means a faster turnaround than the initial inspection.

5. Pass and Register Your Vehicle

When everything checks out, your vehicle is approved for registration and road use. If it’s an import, you’ll receive the required NZTA paperwork to finalise compliance.

How Long Do You Have to Fix Compliance Issues?

You usually have 28 days to complete the necessary repairs before your inspection file closes. After that, you may need to start the process again with a full inspection.

If parts are on order or your vehicle requires specialist work, talk to our team early — we can help coordinate with VINZ to keep your process active.

How to Avoid Failing Compliance Next Time

• Get a pre-compliance check before inspection.
• Keep import and modification documents together and legible.
• Inspect tyres, brakes, lights, and seatbelts before booking.
• Avoid last-minute repairs — schedule early and plan ahead.
• Use a trusted compliance centre that supports you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a vehicle that failed compliance?

No. Until it passes, it’s not road-legal and can’t be registered for use on public roads.

Do I have to pay again for re-inspection?

Usually, a smaller re-inspection fee applies if you return within the 28-day period.

What happens if I don’t repair my vehicle?

If the deadline passes or the vehicle remains unsafe, the file expires and you must restart the inspection process.

Can FastTrack Compliance help me fix failed items?

Yes. Our team works alongside VINZ inspectors on-site to guide you through the repair and re-inspection process from start to finish.

Need Help

If your vehicle failed its compliance inspection, contact us and our team will help you get it back on track.
👉 Contact us today at our Penrose branch or Christchurch branch.

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