Vehicle modifications

You can repair or weld vehicle components as long as you use specialised repair techniques that ensure the protection characteristic and strength of your vehicle is maintained, and not affected by the repair or modification.

Those components can include any of the following:

• chassis
• body structure
• engine mounts
• suspension
• steering shafts
• drive-line components
• towing connections.

Before you start a repair or modification

All welding must be carried out by a qualified welder.

The repairer must use the vehicle manufacturer's recommended repair or welding procedure.

Engineering certification may also be required to confirm that the repairs or modifications have not compromised the vehicle's strength or compliance with vehicle safety standards.

If your vehicle is an older vehicle and doesn't have manufacturer's guide, then any welding or modification must be carried out in accordance with Australian Standards 1554.

Welding of components such as front stub axles, suspension and steering components are not normally recommended. If the manufacturer permits welding on these components, the components may be welded in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements. Non-destructive testing may also be required to ensure the welding is satisfactory. Any tests are the responsibility of the owner.

After a repair or modification

When repairs or approved modifications are completed the welder or their employer must certify in writing that the repairs have been carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.

You must keep the certification and present it to the MVR during the vehicle's inspection.

More information

For more information get a copy of V31 Repair or welding of vehicle components PDF (431.4 KB)