WOF failed on a dashboard warning light: what to do

A warning light for a safety system was on at the inspection, for example airbag, ABS, or emergency braking.

What the inspector may have found

  • Airbag light on.
  • ABS light on.
  • Automatic emergency braking or lane keep assist light on, on cars that have them.
  • Power steering light on.

How it is usually fixed

A mechanic or auto electrician reads the fault, fixes the cause and clears the light. Clearing the light without fixing the cause usually brings it back.

Our warning light guide explains each symbol and whether you can keep driving.

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

M Tech

Henderson

Mechanics

Free written quote, or call to book

AZ Autos

Papatoetoe

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

AB Autos

Panmure

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

Fredco

Kingsland

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

VIRLTD

Onehunga

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See all mechanics in this suburb

Questions drivers ask

Can I still drive if my WOF failed on a dashboard warning light?

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 a dashboard warning light?

A mechanic or auto electrician reads the fault, fixes the cause and clears the light. Clearing the light without fixing the cause usually brings it back.

Book

What for?

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