Earlier this month I took my car to get it inspected, just as I do every year. But this year, as I sat in the waiting room, I wondered, ‘What exactly do they inspect? And what does it take to pass?’ Now that I have the answers, I want to share what I know! (Of course, state inspections may vary from state to state.)
What Does a Car Inspection Include?
- Horn
- Windshield wipers
- Mirror
- Steering
- Seat belts
- Brake system (parking – beginning with 1960 models)
- Tires
- Wheel assembly
- Exhaust system
- Exhaust emission system (beginning with 1968 models)
- Beam indicator (beginning with 1948 models)
- Tail lamps (2); (1) if 1959 model or earlier
- Stop lamps (2); (1) if 1959 model or earlier
- License plate lamp (1)
- Rear red reflectors (2)
- Turn signal lamps (beginning with 1960 models)
- Head lamps (2)
- Motor, serial, or vehicle identification number
- All models – inspect for window tinting or coating
- Gas caps on vehicles 2-24 model years old.
The most common reasons for inspection failure include windshield wipers, brakes, bulbs (including turn signals, stop lights & headlights) and tires. To be sure you pass the first time, you can check those things before you take your vehicle in.
Also, when you head in, make sure you take your proof of insurance, a photo ID and payment when you take your car for inspection.
You can expect to exit the vehicle while the technician performs the inspection. It’ll take about 10 minutes from start to finish. To avoid the rush, get your inspection done in the last half of the month.
Did you learn anything about car inspections?
Get more car information from Adel Chrysler.
I had no idea that a car inspection included so much. A lot of these different things seem like they’d have a pretty big impact on safety, like windshield wipers or brakes. Of course, all of the things they inspect are most likely important, and not all of them have to do with safety. I appreciated the rundown of things they DO check though. Thanks for sharing!