For some car owners, the state inspection becomes a time of dread. Perhaps, these motorists fear failing and dealing with its expected repairs. However, with a safety inspection checklist, you can examine each part and make repairs before going to the inspection station.
The Safety Inspection Checklist Your Automotive Technician Will Use
Generally, the majority of car owners will need a safety inspection performed each year. Only cars that are 30 years or older don’t require one. Typically, an automotive technician will need to check specific automotive components before passing a state safety inspection:
1. Headlights And Accessory Lights
Properly functioning headlights maintain visibility during inclement weather and nighttime. The illumination attempts to replicate daylight viewing of the eye for a more relaxed driving style. Other lights, brake, tail, and reverse, help to communicate your actions to other drivers to keep you both safe. Often, a burnt-out bulb is the culprit.
2. Directional Signals
Your directional signals communicate to other drivers your intended actions. Malfunctioning directional signatures may increase accidents as one study indicated. Again, a burnt-out bulb is the most common reason this part stops working.
3. Brakes
Indisputably, one of the most important parts of your car is your brakes. However, with constant use, pads and rotors can become worn reducing your stopping ability.
In addition, your parking brake needs checking. This secondary braking system works as a backup in the event your primary brakes fail. It’s also important to keep the car from rolling when parked on an incline.
4. Steering And Suspension
An NC safety inspection also involves checking your car’s steering and suspension. Although separate systems, these components work in tandem to keep your car balanced, stable, and drivable. An excessive amount of play in your steering may indicate a problem with your suspension.
5. Tires
Inclement weather is where worn tires can be a big problem. When treads aren’t deep enough, tires can’t channel water on the road resulting in hydroplaning. This condition may occur in a water depth of only 0.3 centimeters. You may also experience trouble in braking and handling your car with worn tires.
6. Horn
As an essential safety feature, it’s obvious why a horn needs to be in good working condition. While a blown fuse is the most common reason your horn isn’t working, other parts can also affect its function. A faulty relay, clock spring, or switch can all prevent a car horn from sounding.
7. Windshield And Mirrors
Most car owners know a cracked windshield needs replacement before a vehicle can pass inspection. However, all your mirrors must also be free from fractures. Additionally, loosely mounted mirrors won’t pass inspection either.
8. Windshield Wipers
For clear visibility when driving, your windshield must be clear of rain, snow, or other debris. Your windshield wipers are the tool used to clear your windshield. However, UV sunlight, heat, and dirt can wear down the edge of the wiper blade, streaking and reducing visibility.
9. Exhaust
During your safety inspection, the technician will examine the pipes, muffler, and catalytic converter for broken, disconnected, or rusted parts. Any problems with your exhaust may release pollutants into the atmosphere and increase the operating noise of your vehicle.
10. Tinted Windows
Many modern cars, especially SUVs and minivans, have factory-installed window tinting. However, it’s aftermarket tinting that technicians need to test for light transmittance and reflection.
You May Also Need An Emissions Test
In addition to a safety inspection, living in one of the following counties may also require an emissions test:
- Alamance
- Buncombe
- Cabarrus
- Cumberland
- Davidson
- Durham
- Forsyth
- Franklin
- Gaston
- Guilford
- Iredell
- Johnston
- Lincoln
- Mecklenburg
- New Hanover
- Randolph
- Rowan
- Wake
- Union
During an emissions test, your automotive technician will check your car’s levels of pollutants in your exhaust fumes. After hooking up to your car’s computer, an analyzer reads stored information to determine if your car meets established standards.
However, state regulations exempt certain vehicles from this test:
- Light-duty vehicles less than 3 years old or fewer than 70,000 miles
- Farm vehicles
- Diesel-operated vehicles
- Automobiles 20 years or older
Safety Inspection Checklist – FAQs
Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville staff members are happy to answer questions you have about the safety inspection checklist. Call us at 336-993-7697 and we’ll be happy to assist you. Below, we answer a few FAQs about this DMV requirement. Moreover, check out a few of our other blogs for checklists and items you may need such as our winter car maintenance checklist, emissions testing and registration renewal information.
How Much Does An Inspection Cost?
All inspection stations should charge the same fees as the DMV sets the allowable charges. A safety inspection is $13.60, emissions $30, and window tinting $10.
Where Can I Get A Car Inspection?
Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville is a certified inspection station. Located on Highway 66 in Kernersville, we’re right off Salem Parkway (Business 40). Our shop is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. On Saturday, you can visit us from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
What Happens If My Vehicle Fails?
Even with good maintenance, sometimes a car may fail to pass its inspection. Don’t panic if this happens to you! DMV regulations allow you 60 days to make necessary repairs and get your car reinspected.
Moreover, if you bring your car to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville, we can make all the necessary repairs. We’re a full-service auto repair shop maintaining and repairing both domestic and foreign vehicles. For over 25 years, our family-owned business has helped Kernersville residents keep their cars running efficiently.
If it’s time for your annual inspection, bring your car to us! You’ll love our fast, friendly service and competitive prices. Call us at 336-993-7697 to make an appointment or use our easy online form.
