So, I might elaborate more at some point later, but for now let me just get this out there of off my chest.
AA VEHICLE INSPECTIONS ARE COMPLETELY FUCKING USELESS, AND A WASTE OF TIME. They employ moronic substandard mechanics who miss basic facts. They're lazy, and overpriced. The service is a complete waste of time. This is not just commenting on a single experience. This is the second time personally I've been fucked over by them. While talking about it this time, and the last time, I was joined by a chorus of people sharing similar horror stories. So anyway, there it is. Letter to the AA is being drafted, and possibly more details on this crap later too. Until then, if you're in New Zealand, and are thinking of getting a vehicle inspected, then do yourself a favor and use anyone other than AA Vehicle Inspection Services.