Certified Vehicle

Ensure your imported vehicle is safe with VTNZ's Certified Vehicle assessment! Additional to Entry Certification checks, a VTNZ Certified Vehicle has passed multiple safety and assurance checks.

 

Choose VTNZ to keep you safe on New Zealand roads!

A VTNZ Certified Vehicle is a vehicle that has been imported into New Zealand and has passed multiple safety and assurance checks additional to the vehicle Entry Certification checks. The VTNZ Certified Vehicle approval can only be granted on completion of the VTNZ Vehicle Appraisal Report (VAR).

What gets checked?

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    The body of the vehicle, noting corrosion and non-cosmetic issues.

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    The underbody of the vehicle, including assessment for accident, corrosion or structural damage, exhaust leaks and condition, CV and steering boot condition, and observing for any fluid leaks. The cooling system of the vehicle. The cooling system is inspected for leaks during normal operating temperature (pressurised system), an external check of the radiator, water pump, and hoses to assess condition and fluid-tightness.

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    The vehicle’s engine is vacuum tested to determine condition, and an appraisal is carried out for noise and exhaust smoke output to identify engine wear. Drive belts are condition assessed.

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    The vehicle’s engine electricals – battery, alternator and starter motor are checked under electrical load.

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    The vehicle’s tyres are checked for tread depth, wear patterns indicating alignment issues and any other abnormal wear issues.

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    Road Test: A limited road test will be performed up to 50km/h, The road test will only be undertaken if the vehicle is in a roadworthy condition.

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    Finally, general comments relating to the vehicle noted during the inspection, and any items noted that are obviously requiring attention by way of repair or replacement.

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Does my vehicle still need a Pre-Purchase Inspection?

 

The Vehicle Appraisal Report (VAR) performed provides customers with information that assures the general mechanical and structural condition of the vehicle. As this is carried out by VTNZ and not the motor vehicle trader/dealer, this provides comfort that the checks have been performed objectively and independently by a third party.

 

While the Vehicle Appraisal Report is very thorough and provides peace of mind, if customers want further internal, interior or accessory testing (i.e., air conditioning, stereo or mechanical defect testing) then a VTNZ pre-purchase assessment is recommended.

 

Why should I purchase a VTNZ Certified Vehicle?

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    Ensured Safety

    Purchasing a VTNZ Certified Vehicle ensures the vehicle has passed multiple safety and condition checks prior to being offered for sale.

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    Independent Inspection

    A VTNZ Certified Vehicle has been inspection and certified by an independent and objective third party, alleviating doubt or uncertainty in the purchase decision.

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    Assurance from a Trusted Brand

    Know that a trusted brand has ensured the safety and condition of a vehicle before completing your purchase.

Terms and Conditions

VTNZ Certified Vehicle stickers will only be applied to vehicles that have been through the Entry Certification process and the Vehicle Appraisal Report inspection. VTNZ will hold centralised information about the Certified Vehicle authorisations issued. Failure to comply with the requirements and obligations of the VTNZ Certified Vehicle programme may result in removal from the programme. Terms and conditions are subject to change at any time.