Originally Posted by
mudmouse
The defect notice is issued because the inspecting officer believes the vehicle MAY not comply with the applicable standard (or design rule, ADR's). I don't know about other States but in NSW, you're right, there is no further training to detect defects nor any legislation to stop a vehicle soley for the purpose of inspecting it for defects. So if it looks modified, then you might reasonably expect to be stopped. No engineers report covering those mods, or the vehicle is just a piece of crap, or somethings worn, broken or defective = a defect notice should be issued. The defect isn't a professional opinion on the vehicle, it's a notice directing the registered owner to have the vehicle inspected to ensure it complies with a standard. It's about safety and having vehicles on the road that comply, are registered and insured (hopefully). Who gives a toss about the rubbish statistics that pollies dribble on about. Think of what it would be like being lobbed a bill for property or personal injury because your rig got knocked back on an insurance claim - or some dill's piece of junk ran off the road and squashed something you loved. At the end of the day there should be one national standard with proper engineering analysis to support every complaint and road user.