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Anon

I have an enquiry regarding a car with an expired car registration.

An acquaintance of mine has a 1994 Subaru Legacy station wagon. It has been stored in a garage for about 3-4 years now.

He is thinking of using the car again and was wondering what would be a rough estimate of costs and the correct process he needs to go through.

Ken

From the the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

jbiddle

The car will have to go through a compliance check with a Transport Service Delivery Agent before it can be re- registered. The all up cost would greatly depend on its current condition and whether or not the car was originally sold new in NZ or is a used import.

The mechanical check can be more invasive if the car is a used import which can ultimately lead to an increase in the compliance costs.

Any structural issues detected during the inspection would also need to be repaired and signed off by an authorised person.

If the car was in good condition, sold NZ new and passed without having to spend too much money on repairs then allow around $600. This would cover the inspection, new plates and registration.

If it requires extensive work to bring it up to the required standard then the sky's the limit and it may be best left in the garage, sold for any worthwhile parts it may have, or given up for scrap.