Defect notices are not just for people with modified cars; they are meant to ensure road safety and vehicle maintenance standards are met. If you are pulled over by the police and your car is deemed unroadworthy, you will be issued a defect notice. This notice will list the issues that need to be fixed before you can drive your vehicle again, and fines can range from $114 to $1045 per defect.
While obvious issues like worn-out tires, faulty headlights, and vehicle damage can lead to a defect notice, there are some less noticeable problems that can also result in fines. For example, not having windscreen wiper fluid can get you a defect notice and a $114 fine. Keeping your wiper fluid topped up is an easy and affordable way to avoid this penalty.
Another common issue is not having a spare tire or having a flat spare tire. Even if your car did not come with a spare tire, you may still receive a defect notice if you do not have a roadworthy spare or a tire repair kit. It’s important to check your spare tire regularly to avoid unexpected fines.
Changing the color of your car without notifying the transport registry can also lead to a defect notice. If the color on your registration does not match the color of your car, you may be pulled over by police using number plate scanners. Always update your registration information when changing your car’s color to avoid penalties.
Police officers can also check your tire pressures and issue a defect notice if they deviate from the manufacturer’s standards. While this is more common for 4WD owners, all drivers should ensure their tires are properly inflated to avoid fines.
One of the most common defect notices for passenger vehicles is the lack of an H-pattern sticker on the gear shifter. While there is no specific road rule requiring this sticker, officers can issue a defect notice for not having one. Make sure your gear shifter is properly labeled to avoid unnecessary fines.
In conclusion, police have the authority to issue defect notices for any issues they deem unroadworthy, even if they are not covered by Australian Design Rules. It’s important to stay on top of your car maintenance and address any issues promptly to avoid fines and keep yourself and others safe on the road. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to defect notices.
