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From the workshop

Plain-English advice from the team at GVI Service Centre: WOF rules, servicing, EV and hybrid care, warranties and buying a used car.

WOF changes from 1 November 2026: what they mean for your vehicle

Two-yearly WOFs for many newer vehicles, yearly checks for the oldest, new ADAS checks and higher fines. Here is who is affected, and what to do now.

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How often should you service your car in New Zealand?

Months or kilometres, petrol, diesel or EV: how to work out the right service interval for your car, and when to service sooner.

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Why cars fail a WOF: the common reasons, and how to avoid them

Tyres, brakes, lights, wipers and warning lights: the usual suspects behind a failed WOF, and a ten-minute check to catch them first.

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Do electric cars need servicing?

No oil changes, but electric cars still need brake, coolant, filter, tyre and 12V battery attention. Here is what a proper EV service covers.

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EV battery health explained: what SOH really means

SOH, capacity, range and warranty: what a battery health number means, what wears a battery faster, and what to check before you buy a used EV.

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Does servicing at an independent workshop void your warranty?

Servicing at an independent workshop does not automatically void a warranty. Here is what the Motor Trade Association says, and what records to keep.

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Used car inspection checklist for New Zealand buyers

History and finance checks, a walk-around and test drive, EV battery questions, and why an independent inspection before you pay is worth it.

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Car warning lights: what they mean and what to do

Red or amber, steady or flashing: what the common dashboard warning lights mean, including EV warnings, and what to do about each one.

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New articles are added regularly. Follow the RSS feed to catch them.

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