what does roadworthy check

In Australia, a roadworthy (RWC) is a safety snapshot, not a full spa day for your car’s neuroses.

Inspectors check the life-or-death bits: tyres (tread ≥ 1.5 mm), brakes, steering and suspension, lights/indicators, seatbelts and seats, windscreen/windows/wipers, body integrity and rust, and exhaust leaks.

They don’t certify perfection—air‑con, infotainment, minor oil sweat, cosmetic scrapes and service history aren’t the point unless they affect safety.

States vary (VIC/QLD issue RWCs for sale/transfer; NSW uses a safety check), but the core logic is the same: can it stop, steer and be seen without shedding parts?

Use it as a baseline for safety, then get a pre‑purchase inspection if you want the gory details.