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hi my car has just failed a warrent for haveing a dent in the sill panel below the door it isnt big at all and what you would expect when the jack failed once years ago the car is a rover 200 surly it shoudnt fail because of a small dent ??? reefton

I suspect the reason for rejection is based on deformation of the sill panel which in the eyes of the inspector has affected the vehicles structural integrity.

I suggest you go back to the WoF outlet concerned and ask them to be more specific on their reasons for rejection.

After a healthy discussion with you they may agree the damage is minimal and add comments to their files only and issue the warrant. They may also stick to their original decision and ask for repairs to be carried out before a warrant is issued.

You do have the option of calling the NZTA WoF help line to discuss the rejection if you wanted to seek the opinion of the government officials who set the rules. It would be highly unlikely however, they would overrule any damage to a structural part of a vehicle in my opinion. Their number is 0800 699 000.

Also bear in mind the outlet who rejected the WoF may ask you to return the car after the panel repairs have been carried out and before any final painting has been completed.

It would pay to ask before you start any repairs.