So you’ve heard of a roadworthy certification, but you’re not sure what it is and ultimately if you need one to sell your car.
Below we cover everything you need to know about roadworthy checks- what it is, how to get one, how much it costs and the role it plays in the car sales process.
We also talk about other requirements you will need in Victoria and address some common FAQs when it comes to selling your used car.
What’s A Roadworthy Certification? And Do You Need It?
Roadworthy checks are important because they ensure the safety of the vehicle being sold or purchased.
Yes, if selling privately
When selling a car privately, it is necessary to obtain a roadworthy certificate to show that the vehicle has passed the required safety standards. This not only protects the buyer but also the seller from any liability in case of accidents or mechanical issues.
For dealerships- it depends
Car dealers may or may not require a roadworthy certificate depending on their policies.
Some dealerships may purchase the car without a roadworthy certificate but will conduct their own inspection before making a final offer. Others may require a valid roadworthy certificate before making any purchase.
How to get your vehicle inspected for a Roadworthy Certificate
In order to obtain a Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) in Victoria, your vehicle must undergo a thorough inspection by a licensed vehicle tester.
The inspection covers various safety aspects of the vehicle such as brakes, suspension, steering, lights, tyres, and other important components. You can find licensed vehicle testers through VicRoads or online directories.
Once you have booked an inspection, you will need to bring your vehicle and the required documents, such as your registration certificate, to the inspection site. If your vehicle meets the safety requirements, you will receive a Roadworthy Certificate. However, if your vehicle does not pass the inspection, the tester will provide you with a list of repairs that need to be done to obtain the certificate.
It’s important to note that a Roadworthy Certificate is valid for 30 days from the date of issue, and is required when transferring the ownership of a vehicle or when re-registering a vehicle that has been off the road for a period of time.
How Much Does A Roadworthy Certificate Cost?
The cost of a roadworthy certificate (RWC) varies depending on the tester you choose. They can set their own prices, which can be influenced by your car’s age, type, and condition. Generally, you can expect to pay between $150 and $200 for a car with no defects.
Requirements when selling your car in Melbourne
- Transfer form
- Receipt for the car (to the buyer)
- Notify VicRoads
You will need to have the buyer sign a transfer form to legally transfer the ownership of your vehicle. This transfer form is available from VicRoads or online, and must be completed in full before taking any further steps.
You will also need to write a receipt for the car sale which includes details about the transaction; such as make and model, year, odometer reading, sale price and date of sale.
Once you have completed the transfer form and provided a receipt to the buyer, you will need to notify VicRoads about the transfer in order for them to update their records. You can do this online or at a VicRoads office.
4 Other FAQs on selling your car in Melbourne
Can I sell my car on finance?
Yes, you can but it can often be a deterrent for private buyers. To sell your car on finance, you will need to have a loan agreement in place with the buyer and provide them with relevant paperwork such as a financial statement. You should also be aware of responsible lending laws so that you can protect yourself and ensure the buyer is making an informed decision.
Can I sell my car if it’s been in an accident?
Yes, you can sell your car if it has been in an accident but you must disclose this information to the buyer. It’s important to be transparent and honest with the buyer and provide them with a full report of any damage or repairs that have been done to the car as a result of the accident.
Should I sell privately or to a dealer?
The decision to sell your car privately or to a dealer depends on many factors such as the condition of the car, how quickly you need the money, and whether you want to avoid additional paperwork.
Private sales are generally quicker and may get you more money for the vehicle but dealerships often offer convenience and peace of mind.
Check out our other article on the best way to sell my car in Melbourne: Private Sale vs Car Dealer to learn more.
How much is my car worth?
The value of your car depends on a range of factors such as age, condition, make and model. An easy and almost instant way of establishing your car’s worth is to use an online car valuation tool. These tools provide you with a guide price for the vehicle and can help you establish a fair sale price.
Conclusion
Selling your car in Melbourne doesn’t have to be a difficult process.
By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your sale is legally compliant and successful.
If you are looking to sell your car without a roadworthy certificate, Carhops is a great option.
Part of the convenience that we provide is, you don’t have to spend the money and time to get a roadworthy certificate for your car. We buy any car in its present condition.
Contact the team at Carhops today for more information on how we can help!
