Many drivers tremble at the thought of annual inspections because states can mandate costly repairs, but other drivers merely snicker. The reason for differing attitudes depends on whether your state has vehicle inspection laws in place. Some states require annual safety and emissions inspections at state-operated inspection stations. Other states require auto owners to visit an authorized private garage for periodic inspections. Many states do not conduct vehicle inspections because some statistics suggest such checks do little to improve highway safety. Although vehicle inspection laws differ among states, most have the intention of ensuring that all vehicles within each state meet minimum safety and emissions standards. When you present your car for annual inspection, technicians will check it for emissions and safety performance. Here is an overview of what you can expect at an inspection from Demo 3 Birds Acura.
Emissions Inspections
States such as Massachusetts aggressively test cars for the amount of pollutants a car discharges into the air, primarily from exhaust pipes. In some states, emissions requirements state only residents of certain counties must submit their vehicles for emissions testing. Emissions tests check for many common pollutants that include some of the following:
- Nitrogen Oxides
- Carbon Monoxide
- Carbon Dioxide
- Sulfur Dioxide
- Hazardous Air Pollutants. A collection of about forty EPA-classified substances, many of which cause cancer. Lists of HAPs often include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, benzene, 1- and 3-butadiene, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde.
Many emissions inspections, such as those in North Carolina, heavily rely on an evaluation of on-board diagnostics downloaded from vehicles. Such evaluations reveal whether or not cars are operating in compliance with environmental regulations. Emissions inspections can also involve the use of sensors inserted into the tailpipes of running cars.
Safety Inspections
A quick safety inspection checks key aspects of motor vehicles to make sure they comply with basic safety standards. When technicians inspect your vehicle, you can expect them to examine its most important systems including mirrors, brakes, tires, seat belts, air bags, and suspension. Inspectors also will likely check your car’s headlights, windshield wipers, and horn. If you have any questions about the criteria used to evaluate your car, contact us or the nearest DMV office.
Failed Inspections
When your car fails either a safety or emissions inspection, you usually have time to have your car repaired. In some states, you do not have to re-submit your car for inspection if an authorized re-inspection garage performs the service. These stickers help motivate vehicle owners to repair their cars. In some cases, repairs can cost more than an auto owner can afford to pay. In such cases, owners can sometimes apply for waivers to help them continue to legally operate their cars. Strict rules and fees apply to waivers, however, so you should only pursue a waiver as a last resort. If your car fails, do not leave the inspection facility without a clear understanding of the options available to you in your state.
