It’s that time of year again. The DMV has given you notice and now, it’s time to get a state inspection. For many people, getting your vehicle inspected can be stressful. However, the process can be quick and easy when you visit quality auto mechanics. After all, when you think about it, state inspections are quite important. Basically, they ensure your car is safe to drive. Additionally, it protects all other drivers and passengers on the road. Plus, state inspections aren’t as daunting as they may seem, once you understand the process. For a stress-free NC car inspection bring your automobile to Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
How Does an NC Car Inspection Work?
After the DMV has given you a renewal notice, you’ll need to take your car to a certified inspection station. Each NC car inspection must be within 90 days of the license plate and registration expiration date. For most vehicle owners, you’ll need to get both the safety ($13.60) and the emissions inspection ($16.40). Furthermore, you’ll also need to get a special inspection if your vehicle has tinted windows ($10). On average, state inspections and their paperwork take about 30 minutes to complete.
Safety
All cars need to undergo a yearly safety inspection. During this inspection, a certified auto mechanic will check several things:
- Steering
- Accessory lights
- Directional signals
- Foot brake
- Headlights
- Parking brake
- Windshield wipers
- Tinted windows, if applicable
All the above items must be in good working condition or your automobile will fail.
Emissions Inspection
The onboard diagnostic emissions inspection ensures your car follows air quality standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Once your vehicle passes its inspections, you need to register it and pay the renewal fee and property taxes. You can do this online or at a DMV office.
What Happens If Your Car Fails?
Many people stress about failing state inspections and the resulting consequences. However, many vehicles fail their inspections. It simply means you’ll have to get the problem fixed and your car inspected again within 60 days. Please note that only the part of your automobile that failed needs to be re-inspected. For example, if you fail the safety portion, you won’t need to get the emissions re-inspected and vice versa. Lastly, if you pass the safety inspection but fail the emissions portion, you may be able to obtain an emissions inspection waiver.
Exemptions
In some cases, you may request a waiver and be exempt from the emissions portion. Or, you will be exempt if you live outside certain counties. Plus, vehicles manufactured before 1995, farm vehicles and new vehicles under 3 years with under 70,000 miles are all exempt. In addition, the DMV may issue a waiver for other problems. One common reason is if the car fails the emissions inspection twice. Therefore, if you fall under one of these circumstances, your automobile may only need a safety inspection. When you’re interested in obtaining a waiver, you must bring your vehicle and all its documentation to a License & Theft Bureau.
Another common question that people have is, “What happens if my check engine light is on?” If your check engine light is on but you are exempt from the emissions portion, you won’t fail the safety inspection. However, if you’re not exempt, your check engine light will cause your vehicle to fail the emissions portion. Finally, if you’re exempt from an emissions inspection but still want one anyway, you may get one by paying the $16.40 fee. Most certified inspection stations can handle both inspections unless you live in an area where the emissions portion is exempt.
Full Auto Repair Shop and More!
In addition to state inspections, Xpress Lube of Kernersville is also a full repair shop. Therefore, they handle many different services:
- Transmission service and repair
- Brake repair and replacement
- Steering and suspension work
- Nitrogen filling of tires
- Exhaust system repair
- Preventative maintenance
- Fuel system repair
- Tune-ups
- Oil changes
- Car washes and detailing service
- AC repair
- And much more!
Does your car need repair before its state inspection? If so, then bring it to Xpress Lube of Kernersville for the best car care in the Triad. You can make an inquiry online or call them at 336-993-7697. When you need a fast and easy NC car inspection visit Xpress Lube of Kernersville!
