Vehicle inspection failed — can I object?
APK (Periodic Vehicle Inspection) failed: (1) Two failure types: Minor defect = may drive, fix before next inspection. Major defect = no driving until repair. Assessment in inspector report. (2) Second opinion on doubt: another RDW-recognized station (~€50). Can save €500 repair on wrong failure. (3) RDW recheck: official objection at RDW. Bring vehicle within 7 working days to RDW station. Cost: €45-90 (refund on valid objection). On valid: test station must reimburse inspection too. (4) Complaint about test station: separate at RDW if you suspect: conflict of interest (garage fails own repairs, “under law”), unqualified staff. RDW can revoke recognition. (5) Vehicle dispute commission: on dispute with garage-inspection (refused repair, severe overpricing). Binding to €25k. (6) Civil court on damages from wrong failure (lost income, towing). (7) Don't drive with major defect: fine €390 + car seized. Insurance void — on accident, personally liable. (8) APK term: 2 months before + 2 after expiry. Preferably 1 month before expiry for repair time.
Step by step
- 1Request report + photosInspector must show in writing + photos what failed.
- 2Second opinion other garage~€50. On large amount (€500+) or doubt valuable. Sometimes big saving.
- 3RDW recheck €45-90Within 7 working days. On valid objection: free + inspection reimbursement.
- 4Station complaint at RDWOn suspected conflict of interest. RDW can revoke station recognition.
All contacts
Frequently asked questions
Can garage offer repair after fail?
Yes, but you're not obliged to choose there. Compare at least 2 garages for quote. Sloppy inspection can signal “expensive repair business” — second opinion often saves. Independent inspection station (not tied to repair shop) safer.
What if car nearly new is failed?
On vehicle <3 yrs old (first APK at 4 yrs new car): failure unusual — second opinion + RDW recheck strongly advised. On factory defect: warranty claim with dealer/manufacturer (3-7 yrs typical EU directive).
Sources
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