When did this come into effect and for how long?
The change took effect on 23 October 2012 and is ongoing.
More FAQs
Are 5 star cars affordable?
Yes. If you’re in the market for a new car, there is often little price variation between 3-star and 5-star cars.
Doesn't every vehicle have to meet certain standards to be sold in Australia anyway?
Under the Australian Design Rules, if a new vehicle is to be sold in Australia it must meet minimum safety standards. However, there is a significant gap between this minimum standard and the standard required by ANCAP for a vehicle to receive a 4 or 5-star safety rating.
If I have a 2012 and beyond manufactured car that doesn't have an ANCAP rating of 4 or 5 stars, am I still eligible for RAC Roadside Assistance and Auto Services?
Yes, the RAC will continue to provide these services to members, regardless of ANCAP ratings. The campaign is about encouraging WA drivers to buy safer new cars. We accept that there are people who will choose to purchase cars that do not have a 4 or 5-star rating, so we are committed to helping them with the upkeep of their car.
Isn't the star rating based on passive safety?
The star rating is based on an assessment of a combination of passive crash protection, active crash avoidance and post-crash safety.
What about cars that don't get rated?
Most popular new cars on the Australian market are ANCAP rated.
What is a 2012 and beyond manufactured car?
2012 and beyond manufactured cars are those that were manufactured in 2012 and successive years e.g. 2013, 2014, 2015 etc.
What is ANCAP?
ANCAP is the Australian New Car Assessment Program and has been scientifically crash-testing vehicles since 1993.
What is the difference between star ratings for new cars and second hand cars?
There are two completely separate programs which provide car ratings.
Why are these cars not as safe?
These cars are rated by ANCAP, which use a range of tests that simulate how cars are likely to perform in a crash and the likely injuries a driver and passengers may receive in a crash. The ANCAP test results have shown 4 and 5-star cars offer greater protection in the event of a crash than 1, 2 or 3-star ANCAP rated vehicles.
Why has the RAC decided to only insure or finance 2012 and beyond manufactured cars with an ANCAP rating of 4 or 5-stars?
The RAC speaks up about the importance of driving a vehicle with a high safety rating. We hope to encourage WA drivers to make a considered choice when purchasing a new car.
Will the RAC continue to finance or insure my 2012 manufactured car if it does not have an ANCAP rating of 4 or 5 stars?
Please be assured that we will continue to honour our commitment to existing finance contracts and insurance policies. This includes 2012 manufactured cars.
