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Hi there,

I’m shopping for a VF Holden SS or similar and I’m seeing a few stat write off listings with the usual rationale being the SWO threshold in AU is extremely low etc. etc. etc.

I’ve tried to do my own research to better understand those thresholds, and via vicroads.vic.gov.au, I’ve been led to the “Damage Assessment Criteria for the Classification of Statutory Write-Offs” document published by the NMVTRC and Austroads.

I’m certainly no expert so I’m trying to absorb this as best I can….But disregarding Event criteria (fire/water damage, parts stripping) and considering only Structural criteria – to the untrained mind, these seem pretty significant?

Especially as the criteria requires not just one, but three separate examples of damage to the identified structural areas and/or supplementary restraints, where damage is defined as a buckle, crack, cut, fracture or fold. The accompanying pictures and diagrams show the degree of damage isn't small either.

Can someone help explain the finer points please and what makes these vehicles repairable and safe to buy and drive in NZ?

Thanks

Hi there,
The NZTA has instructions on what to look for when the Entry Certifiers are carrying out their inspections. http://vehicleinspection.nzta.govt.nz/virms/entry-certification/i-and-c/vehicle-structure/threshold-for-requiring-repair-certification
There is always a risk when importing a damaged vehicle, and it would need to be repair certified here before entry compliance. The danger with having it repaired before import is that the certifiers have not been part of the process and may require the vehicle to be stripped back and the nature of the repairs checked.