Owning a car in New Zealand comes with important responsibilities. Staying on top of your Warrant of Fitness (WoF), Road User Charges (RUC), safety ratings and recall checks helps keep you legal, safe and protected on the road.
This updated 2026 guide explains each requirement in simple terms — whether you are buying from our Hamilton dealership or already driving a car you love.
Warrant of Fitness (WoF): How Often & What Is Checked
Most light vehicles in NZ require regular WoF inspections. How often you need one depends on the vehicle’s age and first registration date.
A WoF is a safety inspection — not a mechanical guarantee. It checks items such as:
- Tyres and tread depth
- Brakes and steering
- Lights and indicators
- Windscreen, wipers and washers
- Seatbelts and restraint systems
- Structural condition
What to bring: The vehicle, wheel-lock key (if applicable), and a visible VIN or plate.
Common quick checks before a WoF: Replace worn wiper blades, faulty bulbs, top up washer fluid, and check tyres are above the legal minimum.
Buyer tip: Always check the WoF expiry on the windscreen and ask for the most recent WoF sheet if it is available.
Road User Charges (RUC): Who Pays & How It Works
RUC applies mainly to diesel vehicles and certain other vehicle types depending on fuel type and weight class. Instead of paying fuel excise at the pump, RUC is purchased in distance units (for example, per 1,000 km).
- RUC should be purchased before driving those kilometres
- Your licence should match the odometer reading
- Heavy towing or higher weight classes may have different rates
Compliance tip: Buy additional distance before you run out and keep your receipts.
If you sell the vehicle: Record the odometer reading at sale and keep proof of your last RUC purchase.
Practical tip: Take a photo of the odometer every time you buy RUC so your records are clear.
Safety Ratings: Using Rightcar & ANCAP Information
Safety ratings help you compare how well vehicles protect occupants in a crash. In NZ, Rightcar and ANCAP information is commonly used.
- Higher star ratings generally indicate better protection
- Compare by year and variant because safety features can differ within the same model
- Look for features such as airbags, ABS, stability control and modern driver assists
Family tip: For school runs and family travel around Waikato, shortlist vehicles with strong ratings and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Budget tip: A well-rated older model can be safer than a newer vehicle with fewer safety features.
Recall Checks: What They Are & When to Re-Check
A recall is issued by a manufacturer to address a known safety or reliability issue. Recalls can occur many years after a vehicle is built.
- Check for recalls before buying
- Re-check after purchase
- Check annually as part of your ownership routine
If a recall is open: Contact the brand’s authorised dealer network to book the repair.
Paperwork tip: Keep recall letters or invoices with your service records.
PPSR, Odometer & Basic Due Diligence
Before buying any used vehicle, complete a PPSR search to confirm there is no money owing.
- Keep a copy of your PPSR result
- Confirm odometer readings against service history
- Check for timing belt or transmission service notes
At Dave Allen Motors, imports are odometer verified, entry compliance certified, serviced, and AA Appraised for peace of mind.
Towing Basics: Trailers, Brakes & Weight Limits
If you tow a trailer, boat or caravan around Waikato, ensure everything stays within legal limits.
- Check braked and unbraked tow ratings
- Confirm trailer brakes match the loaded weight
- Ensure lights, chains and tyre pressures are correct
On the road: Allow extra stopping distance and reduce speed, especially in crosswinds.
Your Annual Car Ownership Checklist
- Check WoF expiry and book early
- Top up RUC and note the odometer
- Run a recall check by plate or VIN
- Inspect tyres, lights, wipers and fluids
- File service and ownership records together
Need a Hand?
Our team can help explain WoF timing, basic RUC questions, recall lookups and choosing a safe vehicle for NZ roads.
With 625+ Google 5-Star Reviews and over 48,000 vehicles sold, Dave Allen Motors is trusted by drivers across Hamilton and Waikato.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does my car need a WoF in NZ?
WoF timing depends on the vehicle’s age and first registration date. Always check the windscreen label and book ahead.
Who needs to pay Road User Charges?
Diesel vehicles and some other vehicle types pay RUC. Distance should be purchased in advance and matched to the odometer.
How do I check if a vehicle has a recall?
Use the plate or VIN with the official recall lookup for the vehicle brand.
What is the easiest ownership checklist?
Check WoF and RUC, inspect tyres and lights, run a recall check, and keep service records together.