• 68 vehicles deemed unfit for sale by automotive inspectors in 2021
• Defects mostly related to tyres, windscreens and seatbelts
• Buyers urged to get a mechanical inspection before purchase

Automotive officers from Consumer Protection prevented 68 unroadworthy motor vehicles from being sold in 2021, helping to protect buyers and other road users in WA.

Random inspections are regularly carried out at car yards in WA and green “Unfit for Sale” stickers are placed on vehicles that have defects and are considered unsafe or unroadworthy.

The majority of defects involved bald tyres, cracked windscreens and faulty or frayed seatbelts. Other safety issues identified included a missing wing mirror and an LPG tank that was non-compliant and possibly dangerous.

Vehicles with defect orders must be repaired by the date specified in the order and be inspected at an approved Department of Transport facility before being cleared for sale. Alternatively, the dealer can choose to de-licence the vehicle.

The wider compliance program also ensures that the dealership’s sales records are up-to-date and being maintained in accordance with the law.

Commissioner for Consumer Protection Gary Newcombe said holding a motor vehicle dealers’ licence in WA comes with many obligations.

“Used vehicles being sold by dealers must at the very least be safe, even if they are an older model or being offered for sale at a cheap price,” Mr Newcombe said.

“Selling vehicles that have bald tyres, cracked windscreens or faulty seatbelts is unacceptable as these defects pose a great danger to the vehicle’s occupants as well as other road users.

“Buyers are urged to inspect used vehicles thoroughly and ensure the tyre tread is adequate, windscreen is not damaged and seat belts are in good working order, making sure that all seatbelts are tested, not just the driver’s one.

“We strongly suggest getting the vehicle inspected by a qualified licensed mechanic as there may be other problems that won’t be picked up by an untrained eye.”

More information on buying a motor vehicle is available on the Consumer Protection website where complaints about unroadworthy vehicles can be lodged online. Enquiries can be made by email consumer@dmirs.wa.gov.au or by calling 1300 30 40 54.

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Media Contact: Alan Hynd, (08) 6552 9248 / 0429 078 791 / alan.hynd@dmirs.wa.gov.au  

Stickered car

Stickered car

Bald tyres

Unfit for Sale sticker