Ask an expert

We own a 2005 Holden Barina, which has just failed its Warrant of Fitness and requires two new front shock absorbers.

The car has only done 62,000km's.

Is this normal?

Garth

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 15 January 2010

I have to say it is very unusual for the shock absorbers to be rejected but not completely unheard of for any make / model of this age and mileage.

It would be interesting to know just why they have been rejected however, was it because of obvious oil leakage or are they deemed to be weak or soft as a result of a simple push test (the inspector pushing down on the front guard and watching the amount of suspension bounce).

The other point of interest would be where the car was inspected. Was it a Vehicle Testing Station, a general repair garage or a specialised automotive outlet authorised to carry out Warrant of Fitness inspections?

Either way I would ask them to demonstrate or show you the reason for rejection. If you are not confident with their explanation, then take the car elsewhere for another opinion.

A WoF rejection can be challenged if you feel it appropriate to do so. The NZ Transport Agency hot line is 0800 699 000.