10 Affordable and Hassle-Free WOF Testing Stations and Mechanics Hamilton
Minimize the risk of a failed WOF, save money and time, and get repairs from trusted Hamilton mechanics with our comprehensive guide
Updated 1 August 2020
Generally, the biggest surprise with getting a WOF isn’t the upfront fee (a WOF is generally cheap; $50 to $75 is standard). Instead, it’s the WOF ‘fails’ that can end up costing a lot of money. To ensure getting a WOF in Hamilton is a hassle-free process, our guide covers:
Know this first: Find the right WOF test centre for your vehicle's condition
A WOF promotion for $30 or $40 sounds good, but be careful. You face the risk of being strong-armed into spending $500+ with the mechanics if a fault is found. To make things simpler and put you in control, we suggest the following approach:
Is your car in excellent condition?
Is your car in moderate condition and likely to need only minor repairs?
Is your car likely to need major repairs?
Final Steps: Re-testing your vehicle after repairs
- Suggest DIY Pre-WOF Test
- WOF repairs - know the costs upfront to avoid surprises
- Top 10 Hamilton mechanics for WOF fails
Know this first: Find the right WOF test centre for your vehicle's condition
A WOF promotion for $30 or $40 sounds good, but be careful. You face the risk of being strong-armed into spending $500+ with the mechanics if a fault is found. To make things simpler and put you in control, we suggest the following approach:
Is your car in excellent condition?
- If your car is less than five years old and/or is kept in top condition, choosing a WOF testing centre based on price is likely to be the best option.
Is your car in moderate condition and likely to need only minor repairs?
- If you believe that your car will probably pass, a WOF testing station that doesn’t offer repairs is likely to be the best choice. A popular example is VTNZ. As they don’t carry out repairs, there's no vested interest in anything failing.
Is your car likely to need major repairs?
- If you’re confident your vehicle will need repairs to pass its WOF, then the best approach is to take it to an independent testing agent (like VTNZ) and research trusted local garages. Once you know the faults from a failed WOF, you can arrange a quote.
Final Steps: Re-testing your vehicle after repairs
- If your vehicle fails a WOF and you get the necessary repairs, it will need to be re-tested.
- If you fix all the items that require attention within 28 days of the initial inspection, the WOF testing station will re-inspect the vehicle at no additional cost.
- If you exceed the 28 days from the initial inspection, a new fee and inspection are required.
Our Pick for an Independent WOF Assessment in Hamilton
- While thousands of NZTA-approved garages and service centres offer a WOF, we believe Vehicle Testing New Zealand (VTNZ) is a truly independent operation. There are numerous locations all over Hamilton.
- The one-off fee is $67, and if your vehicle fails, you can take it to any garage of your choice (VTNZ doesn't offer repairs).
- We have no business relationship with VTNZ and publish our view as a journalistic opinion.
- For repairs, our top 10 Hamilton mechanics for WOF fails has you covered.
DIY Pre-WOF Test
Per 2019 government statistics, in 2019 a total of 1,886,104 vehicles failed a WOF on the first attempt. This means that 40% of vehicles are not at the desired level of roadworthiness.
We suggest saving yourself the hassle of having to fix common mistakes by undertaking a DIY pre-WOF check at home. Some simple pre-WOF fixes can lower the risk of a failure, although some fails can only be fixed by professional mechanics. Pre-empting the issues and fixing them beforehand saves you money, time and frustration.
Know this: Around 1 in 6 vehicles fail their WOF because of a dead light bulb. The table below outlines the most common reasons for failing a WOF and ways to prepare in advance.
We suggest saving yourself the hassle of having to fix common mistakes by undertaking a DIY pre-WOF check at home. Some simple pre-WOF fixes can lower the risk of a failure, although some fails can only be fixed by professional mechanics. Pre-empting the issues and fixing them beforehand saves you money, time and frustration.
Know this: Around 1 in 6 vehicles fail their WOF because of a dead light bulb. The table below outlines the most common reasons for failing a WOF and ways to prepare in advance.
Reason for Failure |
Checks to do before your WOF |
Lights |
Make sure all of your lights are working. Do a 360-degree walk-around of your car while every light is on, and check brakes, dip, hazard and indicators, as well as the number plate light. Solution: If a light is out, a new bulb costs a few dollars from stores such as Repco and Supercheap Auto. |
Suspension |
A comprehensive suspension check is impossible, but if you push down on each corner of your car and then release, the car should re-balance. If it doesn't, then shock absorber reconditioning may be required. Your WOF will reveal what's needed. |
Brakes |
If your brakes feel tense then it's likely you have an issue. You may also see a brake warning light which indicates your brake pads need replacing. If an issue comes up on your WOF, a mechanic is the best person to fix it. |
Tyres |
Tyre pressure Check your car's tyre pressure and fill them up to their recommended level at a petrol station. You can find the desired PSI in your vehicle handbook, inside the fuel filler flap, or on the driver's door post. Tyre tread The minimum legal tread depth is 1.5mm within all principal grooves that contain these moulded tread depth indicators. If it is below, you'll need to buy a new tyre for every one that fails the WOF. |
Windscreen |
Per the NZTA, damage (apart from scratching and surface pitting that does not affect the driver’s vision, such as small stone marks) will fail a WOF. If you have windscreen damage that affects your vision of the road, you'll need to get this repaired. Some insurers cover glass repair without excess, so see if this applies to you. A windscreen with damage that prevents the wiper blades from working properly will also fail a WOF. |
Exhaust |
A leaking exhaust will fail a WOF. To test it, turn on your engine (in a well-ventilated location) to check for unusual noises or abnormal smoke. If you notice either or both, it indicates a leak which will fail a WOF. |
Steering |
There's no test you can do at home, but if you feel as if the steering could be more responsive or you see a warning light, a repair may be needed. |
Fluids |
Check the brake fluid, windscreen washer and oil reserves, as well as for leaks. |
Everything else |
Give your car a comprehensive once-over, making sure that your seatbelts are functioning, the horn works, the doors open and close from inside and outside, and make sure the wing-mirrors are clean and secure. Most importantly, check there are no warning lights on. |
WOF repairs - know the costs upfront to avoid surprises
For repairs, get a quote first and ask the right questions:
Whatever the WOF issue with your car, when organising a quote, we suggest asking:
- Requesting a quote detailing the cost of a job will minimise the chances of any nasty billing surprises. Such a quote will formally set out the cost of a job so that you know what to expect.
Whatever the WOF issue with your car, when organising a quote, we suggest asking:
- What is the estimate of the total cost to fix the problem(s)?
- Is GST included? 15% adds up, so make sure the final price you hear and agree to is GST-inclusive. For example, $300 becomes $345 with GST included.
- What is the guarantee period? You want a solution, not a short-term fix, so ask to make sure that the proposed solution offered is final and will meet the needs of the WOF assessment.
10 Reliable Hamilton Mechanics that will Test and Resolve WOF Fails
Our list below, which is no particular order, covers mechanics who test and resolve WOF fails, located in Hamilton. We have selected these mechanics based on their history of longstanding service within Hamilton, location and data extracted from internet reviews on Google Business, Facebook, TradeMe Services and others.
No mechanic has paid to appear on this list, and MoneyHub.co.nz has no relationship with any company appearing below.
No mechanic has paid to appear on this list, and MoneyHub.co.nz has no relationship with any company appearing below.
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Grimmer Motors LtdGrimmer Motors Ltd started servicing the Hamilton area in 1934., making them one of the oldest vehicle servicing outlet in the region. Their repair workshop is fully equipped with modern diagnostic tools ready for comprehensive scanning and accurate reports. Grimmer Motors Ltd is an MTA Assured automotive service repair centre providing WOF, engine service and mechanical repairs to all types of vehicles.
What customers like:
Base: Fairfield, Hamilton Contact: 07 855 2037 Website: Grimmer Motors Ltd |
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Hamilton AutomotiveHamilton Automotive is a representative of Auto Super Shoppe national brand. They have a team of expert mechanics and automotive repairers for all types of cars and trucks. They offer services to nearby locations including Frankton, Claudelands, Chartwell, Dinsdale and Melville. Hamilton Automotive is an MTA approved repair shop offering a one-year service guarantee.
What customers like:
Base: Frankton, Hamilton Contact: 07 847 1865 Website: Hamilton Automotive |
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MidasMidas has been operating since 1988 with experienced mechanics to take care of private and fleet vehicles. Midas has more than 20 shops located across New Zealand, and they ensure the same quality experience in all their branches.
What customers like:
Services include, but are not limited to:
Base: Anglesea Street, Hamilton Contact: 07 839 1113 Website: Midas |
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Hamilton Mobile MechanicsHamilton Mobile Mechanics offers on-site car repair and maintenance work. It is being run by a highly qualified mechanic who had years of experience in the Diesel Plant Fitting. Hamilton Mobile Mechanics specialise in all aspects of diesel, hydraulic, gasoline and pneumatic systems repair and maintenance.
What customers like:
Services include, but are not limited to:
Base: Frankton, Hamilton Contact: 021 929 213 Website: Hamilton Mobile Mechanics |
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Automotive Solutions HamiltonAutomotive Solutions Hamilton is a part of Automotive Solutions Group with more than 50 independently owned workshops within New Zealand. They have highly trained technicians to provide the required auto mechanical services. One of their expertise is servicing European vehicle. Thus, they are equipped with proper tools and equipment for more accurate diagnostics.
What customers like:
Services include, but are not limited to:
Base: Frankton, Hamilton Contact: 0800 456 835 Website: Automotive Solutions Hamilton |
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Greg Hantz AutosGreg Hantz Autos is one of the trusted auto mechanics in Hamilton. They specialise in the maintenance and repair of European cars and BMWs. Greg Hantz Autos is a fully accredited and MTA Approved workshop having the latest equipment and technologies to use for diagnostics.
What customers like:
Services include, but are not limited to:
Base: Frankton, Hamilton Contact: 07 847 8877 Website: Greg Hantz Autos |
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Clarksun AutomotiveClarksun Automotive is a Hamilton-based automotive repair shop covering general services, maintenance and rebuild. The owner and the operator of the Clarksun Automotive is an experienced mechanic 30 years of exposure to restoring classic, custom and racing cars. Now, they are currently accepting private vehicles as well as fleet companies requiring auto mechanical services.
What customers like:
Services include, but are not limited to:
Base: Anglesea Street, Hamilton Contact: 07 839 1113 Website: Clarksun Automotive |
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Grey St Motors (2013) LtdGrey St Motors (2013) Ltd is being run by a qualified automotive engineer with more than 25 years of experience in the industry. They specialise in mechanical repairs and servicing of both modern and classic cars. Grey St Motors (2013) Ltd is a member of the Motor Trade Association, which keeps them up to date on training and equipment.
What customers like:
Services include, but are not limited to:
Base: Hamilton East Contact: 07 856 7777 Website: Grey St Motors (2013) Ltd |
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Arnel Service CentreArnel Service Centre is a family-owned automotive repair shop based in Hamilton. They provide full servicing and mechanical repairs to all types of vehicles. Arnel Service Centre is also MTA Assured with a continuously growing number of positive reviews in Google.
What customers like:
Services include, but are not limited to:
Base: Victoria Street, Hamilton Contact: 07 839 5839 Website: Arnel Service Centre |
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Auto Super Shoppe Hamilton CentralAuto Super Shoppe Hamilton Central is a car servicing and repair centre with a local team of experienced mechanics. They are one of the authorised representatives of the Auto Super Shoppe national brand with branches across New Zealand.
What customers like:
Services include, but are not limited to:
Base: Tristram Street, Hamilton Contact: 07 444 4590 Website: Auto Super Shoppe Hamilton Central |
Our Pick for an Independent WOF Assessment in Hamilton
- While thousands of NZTA-approved garages and service centres offer a WOF, we believe Vehicle Testing New Zealand (VTNZ) is a truly independent operation. There are numerous locations all over Hamilton.
- The one-off fee is $67, and if your vehicle fails, you can take it to any garage of your choice (VTNZ doesn't offer repairs).
- We have no business relationship with VTNZ and publish our view as a journalistic opinion.
- For repairs, our top 10 Hamilton mechanics for WOF fails has you covered.
Disclaimer: MoneyHub.co.nz has no relationship, financial or otherwise, with any of the mechanics listed on this page. Quotes and final bills for individual vehicle repairs vary, and our pricing guide is for guidance purposes only.
