What Does “Going Over the Pits” Mean for South Australian Drivers?
What Does “Going Over the Pits” Mean for South Australian Drivers?
For South Australian drivers, the phrase “going over the pits” can seem daunting, but it’s a vital process to ensure that vehicles on the road are safe, compliant, and roadworthy. Whether you’ve received a defect notice, modified your car, or bought a vehicle from interstate, understanding what this process entails can help you stay on the right side of the law and keep your vehicle in the best condition possible.
In this article, we’ll break down what “going over the pits” means, who needs to do it, and how you can prepare your vehicle for a successful inspection.
What Does “Going Over the Pits” Mean in South Australia?
In South Australia, “going over the pits” refers to taking your vehicle to a government-authorised inspection station, where it undergoes a thorough check to ensure roadworthiness. This process is commonly required after a vehicle has been issued a defect notice, undergone significant repairs, or when registering a vehicle from another state. The term “the pits” comes from the inspection pits that allow inspectors to check the undercarriage and other vital components of the vehicle.
Who Needs to Go Over the Pits?
Not all vehicles in South Australia are required to go over the pits, but certain situations necessitate a full vehicle inspection:
1. Drivers with Defect Notices
One of the most common reasons South Australian drivers are required to go over the pits is receiving a defect notice. These notices are issued when police or road authorities identify safety issues with your vehicle. It could be anything from faulty brakes to excessive exhaust emissions. The defect notice outlines the problem and mandates that the vehicle be inspected and cleared by an authorised inspector.
2. Drivers Registering Interstate Vehicles
When a vehicle is brought into South Australia from another state, a full inspection may be required before it can be registered. The vehicle identity inspection is done to confirm the legitimacy of the vehicle and ensure it meets South Australia’s roadworthiness standards.
3. Owners of Modified Vehicles
If you’ve made modifications to your vehicle, such as installing larger wheels, adjusting suspension, or enhancing the engine, you may need to undergo a pits inspection to ensure the vehicle complies with safety regulations. Modified vehicles are often required to be checked for roadworthiness before they are approved for use on public roads.
4. Vehicles Undergoing Major Repairs
If your vehicle has been in a significant accident or has undergone major repairs—especially to crucial components like the brakes, suspension, or frame—you may need to go over the pits to confirm that the vehicle is safe to return to the road.
The Pits Inspection Process: What to Expect
Going over the pits involves a comprehensive examination of your vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of what happens during the inspection:
1. Booking the Inspection
In South Australia, inspections are carried out by government-run or licensed private stations. You’ll need to book an inspection at one of these facilities, such as Regency Park in Adelaide. Be aware that these stations can have high demand, so it’s best to book early.
2. What Inspectors Check
The purpose of the pits inspection is to ensure that every part of your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. Inspectors will check:
- Brakes and Suspension: They will test whether your braking system and suspension are working properly and comply with safety standards.
- Lights and Indicators: Inspectors will confirm that all lights, indicators, and reflectors are functioning correctly.
- Tyres: Tyres must meet legal tread depth requirements, and their condition will be assessed for safety.
- Exhaust and Emissions: The exhaust system will be inspected for leaks, and emissions will be tested to ensure the vehicle meets environmental standards.
- Vehicle Structure: The chassis, bodywork, and undercarriage will be checked for rust, damage, or other structural issues.
- Safety Features: Seatbelts, airbags, and other safety mechanisms will be tested to ensure they are functioning properly.
3. Inspecting Modifications
If your vehicle has been modified, this part of the inspection will focus on ensuring that the changes do not compromise the safety or legality of the car. For example, if you’ve altered the vehicle’s suspension, inspectors will check that it still complies with South Australian safety standards.
Preparing Your Vehicle for a Pits Inspection
A key way to ensure your vehicle passes the inspection is to prepare ahead of time. Here’s how you can get your car ready to go over the pits:
1. Do a Pre-Inspection Check
Before heading to the inspection station, perform a basic check of your vehicle. Make sure all your lights are working, the tyres have adequate tread, and there are no obvious signs of damage or leaks. If you notice anything wrong, it’s best to fix it before the inspection.
2. Fix Known Issues
If you received a defect notice or are aware of any issues with your vehicle, address these problems in advance. This could involve replacing worn tyres, fixing a cracked windscreen, or repairing malfunctioning indicators.
3. Gather Required Documentation
When going for a pits inspection, you’ll need to bring certain documents, including:
- Vehicle registration papers
- Proof of identity
- Defect notice (if applicable)
- Receipts or paperwork related to any modifications
Having all the necessary documents on hand will help streamline the inspection process.
What Happens if Your Vehicle Fails the Inspection?
Unfortunately, not all vehicles pass their pits inspection on the first try. Here’s what happens if your vehicle fails:
1. Receiving a Failure Report
If your vehicle doesn’t meet the necessary safety standards, you’ll receive a report outlining the areas that failed. This report will detail what needs to be fixed before the vehicle can be re-inspected.
2. Making Repairs
You will need to make the necessary repairs to your vehicle, whether it’s addressing brake issues, replacing worn parts, or resolving emission problems. After the repairs are completed, you will need to schedule a re-inspection.
3. Costs and Timeframes
The costs of the inspection and any re-inspections will vary depending on the type of vehicle and the repairs needed. Be sure to fix the issues promptly, as delays in getting the vehicle re-inspected can lead to additional fines or legal complications.
Why Pits Inspections Matter for South Australian Drivers
The pits inspection process plays a crucial role in ensuring that South Australia’s roads are safe for all drivers. By making sure that vehicles are roadworthy, the government can help reduce the risk of accidents caused by faulty or unsafe vehicles. For drivers, going over the pits can seem like an inconvenience, but it’s ultimately about ensuring the safety of you, your passengers, and other road users.
Suggested Reading
- How to Prepare for a Collision Repair Appointment Essential Documents
- How to Extend the Life of Your Vehicle After a Collision