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WOF failed on exhaust or smoke: what to do

The exhaust leaks, is too loud, or the car gives off too much smoke.

What the inspector may have found

  • A hole or loose joint in the exhaust.
  • Visible smoke from the exhaust for more than a short time.
  • A missing or damaged catalytic converter or muffler.

How it is usually fixed

Exhaust holes and loose joints are repaired or the section replaced. Heavy smoke means a mechanic needs to find the cause first.

A new rattle or a louder note when you start the car usually means an exhaust problem.

What to do now

  1. Read the fail sheet and ask the inspector what exactly failed.
  2. Get a written quote for the repair. Ask them to check with you before any extra work.
  3. Get it fixed at the shop you choose. You do not have to use the inspector's workshop.
  4. Go back for the recheck. You have 28 days to get the failed items fixed and rechecked. A recheck of the failed items at the same station within 28 days is normally free, and a full WOF after that. Ask when you book.

Shops near you that can fix this

Closest first. Your location stays on your phone.

Car Lab

Auckland CBD

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

M Tech

Henderson

Mechanics

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AZ Autos

Papatoetoe

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AB Autos

Panmure

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

Fredco

Kingsland

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

VIRLTD

Onehunga

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

See all mechanics in this suburb

Questions drivers ask

Can I still drive if my WOF failed on exhaust or smoke?

It depends on how serious the fault is and whether your old WOF is still current. Ask the inspector. If it is a safety fault, get it fixed before you drive further than you need to.

Is the recheck free?

You have 28 days to get the failed items fixed and rechecked. A recheck of the failed items at the same station within 28 days is normally free, and a full WOF after that. Ask when you book.

What usually fixes a WOF fail on exhaust or smoke?

Exhaust holes and loose joints are repaired or the section replaced. Heavy smoke means a mechanic needs to find the cause first.

Book

What for?

Free to book. The shop texts to confirm, and gives you a written quote before any work.