LVV Certfication

LVV Certification – What to Expect at AJF 4x4 Rotorua

If you’ve modified your Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Nissan Safari, Nissan Patrol, or Mitsubishi Triton, and need it legally certified for road use, AJF 4x4 can guide you through the Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) Certification process. This guide explains how it works, what’s involved, and what to expect.

What is LVV Certification?

LVV Certification is a comprehensive inspection process required for vehicles with structural or performance modifications. It ensures your 4WD meets New Zealand’s safety and compliance standards. Unlike a Warrant of Fitness (WOF), LVV certification is more detailed and can take 2–4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the modifications and any required remedial work.

Why Does It Take So Long?

The process involves at least four independent businesses, each with their own workloads and responsibilities:

  • AJF 4x4 (modification and coordination)
  • Independent WOF inspection provider
  • Wheel alignment specialist
  • Certified LVV certifier

Each party plays a critical role, and scheduling depends on their availability.

Vehicle Requirements Before Certification

To begin the LVV process, your vehicle must:

  • Be roadworthy and complete (no missing trays, bonnets, etc.)
  • Have all modifications fully completed
  • Be ready for a pre-cert WOF inspection

The LVV certifier will inspect all modifications — partial inspections are not permitted, just like a WOF doesn’t only check selected components.

Step-by-Step Certification Process

  1. Post-Modification Pre-Cert WOF Inspection
    Once AJF 4x4 completes your vehicle modifications, we book a pre-cert WOF inspection with an independent provider. This focuses on “WOF safety items” such as steering, suspension, and brakes, and is required before LVV inspection.

  2. Wheel Alignment (if applicable)
    If your build includes changes to suspension geometry — such as upper control arms, lift kits, diff drops, or solid axle conversions — a wheel alignment report is required. This is also conducted by a third party.

  3. Initial LVV Inspection
    The certifier performs a detailed inspection, typically taking a few hours. We’ll contact you the following day to discuss any issues, rejections, or questions that arise.

  4. Remedial Work (if needed)
    If the certifier identifies issues unrelated to AJF’s work, these are not covered in the inspection cost. You may choose to fix them yourself or have us handle them. Once resolved, we’ll book a recheck with the certifier.

  5. Digital Certification Tag Issued
    Once approved, the certifier applies a digital cert tag to your vehicle in a location of their choosing. This tag can take up to 5 working days to become active in the system.

  6. Final WOF Recheck
    After the cert is live and any remaining WOF issues are resolved, your vehicle can undergo a final WOF recheck.

Important Notes

  • LVV certification is not a WOF — it follows strict procedures and legal standards.
  • Only items modified by AJF 4x4 are covered in the inspection cost.
  • We will not falsify or misrepresent any aspect of the certification process under any circumstances.
  • Once certified, we will not adjust suspension or remove/refit components that would invalidate the certification. Doing so is at your own risk.

Common Reasons for Certification Rejection

  • Tyre poke – Tyres must be fully covered, even if only slightly exposed
  • Tyre rub – Tyres must clear all bodywork throughout the suspension cycle
  • Modified bull bars – Must be compatible with airbag-equipped vehicles
  • Brake performance – Especially rear brake balance is often overlooked
  • Speedometer accuracy – Larger tyres can cause incorrect readings

Pricing

  • LVV Inspection (incl. WOF & Alignment): $1,595 incl. GST
  • LVV Recheck: $150 incl. GST
  • VTNZ WOF Recheck: FREE
  • Note: Repair or remedial work is not included in the above fees

We hope this guide helps you understand the LVV certification process when working with AJF 4x4. Whether you're modifying a Nissan Patrol for rugged trails or lifting your Ford Ranger for better clearance, we’re here to ensure your build is safe, legal, and ready for the road.