At Coast Mechanical, we make it our job to keep up with changes to Warrant of Fitness (WoF) and Certificate of Fitness (CoF) requirements so our customers always have the latest info. Recently, the government announced updates that affect vintage vehicles and private heavy motorhomes - and the changes are a win for owners.

What’s Changed?

From September 2025:

• Vintage cars and motorcycles over 40 years old only need a WoF once a year (instead of every six months).
• Private heavy motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes now need a CoF once a year (instead of every six months).

These updates are designed to reduce hassle and costs for owners of vehicles that are generally well-maintained and used less often than standard cars.

Why the Change?

Data from the government review showed that:

• Vintage vehicles are less likely to be involved in serious crashes caused by faults.
• Classic cars and motorcycles consistently have higher WoF pass rates than modern cars.
• Motorhomes are typically low-use vehicles, driven carefully, and well-looked after.
• The public strongly supported the change — with almost 98% of submissions in favour of annual checks for vintage vehicles and 89% support for annual CoFs for motorhomes.

What Counts as a Vintage Vehicle?

In New Zealand, a vehicle is legally considered vintage once it reaches 40 years old — regardless of make or model. That could mean a rare Holden Monaro or an everyday Toyota Corolla from 1984.

For motorhomes, the new rule applies specifically to private heavy motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes.

What This Means for Owners

• Less hassle – no more six-monthly checks.
• Reduced costs – fewer inspection fees and less travel to testing stations.
• Peace of mind – still maintaining safety standards while cutting red tape.
• More time to enjoy your vehicle – whether that’s cruising in a classic car or exploring NZ in your motorhome.

Coast Mechanical Can Help

Whether it’s a vintage car, classic motorcycle, heavy motorhome, work ute, truck, or machinery, our team at Coast Mechanical is here to help keep it running reliably. We provide:

• Mobile mechanic services – we come to you.
• Warrant of Fitness and Certificate of Fitness pre-checks so you pass first time.
• Diesel engine and heavy vehicle servicing.
• 24/7 breakdown service if you’re caught out on the road.

Keeping Kiwis on the Road

With these new WoF and CoF rules, owners of vintage vehicles and motorhomes can spend less time on paperwork and more time enjoying the open road. And when it comes to keeping your pride and joy in top condition, you can trust Coast Mechanical for expert, reliable service.

👉 Contact us today for vintage car servicing, motorhome maintenance, or mobile mechanic support — available whenever and wherever you need us.

Your Local Mobile Mechanic Hibiscus Coast