Car inspections aren’t just part of car maintenance—in some states, they’re required for car registration. But they also come up when you want to buy a used car. So how much does a car inspection cost? This post will take a closer look. The out-of-pocket cost you’ll pay for an inspection depends on the type you need, the state you live in, and the type of car being inspected. Each set of inspection requirements also includes a variety of exceptions and associated fees, making untangling the web of car inspections a daunting task for most people. While these inspections aren’t a huge part of the total cost of car ownership, they can alert you to major problems.
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What is a car inspection?
A car inspection verifies that your vehicle is safe, meets emissions standards, and was legally acquired. Each state, city, and county sets its own vehicle inspection requirements, and auto insurance companies may also require an inspection before providing coverage for a vehicle. If you are pulled over and ticketed for a safety issue with your vehicle, you may have to pass an inspection before you can legally drive that vehicle again.
States require various types of inspections to protect the safety of other drivers on the road, reduce car accidents, and increase revenue. When you arrive at the inspection point, you may be asked to provide several documents, including your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle title or bill of sale. If you fail the inspection, you may be given a second chance, pay a fine, or face parking until you fix the problem.
Types of car inspections
Safety Inspection: A safety inspection checks how well your car drives and is safe to drive on the road. Inspectors may also check the car’s windshield, tires, and other parts related to vehicle safety measures. This annual inspection includes testing safety equipment such as headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and backup cameras. In some states, these inspections are mandatory and are done every year or every two years.
Emissions Inspection: Also known as a smog test, an emissions test involves measuring the efficiency of the car’s emissions and exhaust system. Emissions testing measures how well your exhaust system works to avoid unnecessary pollution. The vehicle must be driven at different speeds to ensure that the emissions components are responding adequately.
VIN Check: VIN checks can help reduce fraud by criminals who often transport vehicles across state lines through mandatory screening. The inspector will ensure that the VIN and title displayed on the various body panels during the state inspection match.
Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): Vehicle owners may choose to have a safety inspection done annually, especially before inclement weather, for peace of mind. Mechanics that provide PPIs usually list the parts that have been inspected for your reference. PPIs check important vehicle components including the powertrain, brake system, tires, fluid levels, hoses, belts, etc.
A used car inspection checks the condition of the car you plan to buy from a dealer or private individual. Inspections are recommended but not mandatory.
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The Need for Car Inspections
Car inspections are an integral part of maintaining your vehicle. If you don’t check your car regularly, you are taking on many risks without even realizing it. Car inspections will tell you if repairs are needed and can alert you to major problems before they cost you money or cause an accident. Let’s explore the advantages of getting a car inspection:
Ensure Safety and Save Money – An inspection gives you a good idea of what’s wrong with your car. Not only will your car perform well, but you’ll also save money in the long run. An inspection can provide photographic evidence of the problem, and you can find out what repairs are needed before it causes any major problems. In addition to saving money, a vehicle inspection will increase the safety of your passengers and other people on the road.
Compliance – Some states have different licensing processes, and you may need to have your car inspected before you can register it. It’s also wise to get an inspection before you move to a new state. Many states require your car to meet certain compliances, and a car inspection is the most effective way to ensure your car is compliant.
Peace of Mind – The best thing about getting an inspection is that you can do it at any time thanks to digital inspections. Not only does a car inspection give you peace of mind, it’s also a great way to ensure your car is running safely and efficiently. You’ll know what to expect from a new car and if there are any hidden repairs that you haven’t discovered.
For Insurance – Many insurance companies require a thorough inspection as they will use it to determine if your vehicle is eligible for insurance. So if you want to insure your vehicle, it is also a good idea to get an inspection. This includes checking the important parts of the car such as the engine, tires, brakes, and transmission.
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Where to get a car inspection?
First you need to figure out what type of inspection you need, and second you need to know where to go to get your car inspected, however, most inspections are performed at the following locations:
Government Agency: In many states, you will need to provide official documentation that your vehicle has passed these inspections before you can legally register your car. Safety, emissions, and VIN tests are all performed by government-run agencies.
Dealership: It is common to see dealerships advertise their in-depth inspections with numerous inspection points, usually when you are deciding whether to buy a new or used car. While these inspections do relate to the vehicle’s safety and emissions equipment, they are more like a pre-purchase inspection (PPI).
Local Mechanic or Auto Repair Shop: Local auto repair shops often perform PPIs for customers. They are similar to dealerships, and some may also be certified inspection agencies recognized by local governments and are authorized to pass or fail vehicles during inspections.
Mobile Inspection Services: While these services may cost more for their convenience, the extra cost can save you the hassle. These mobile mechanic shops are similar to authorized mechanic shops and can pass or fail vehicles during inspections.
Certified Inspection Stations: These are recognized by local governments to perform safety, emissions, and VIN inspections, but they are either privately or government-run.
If you’re not sure where to get checked, a quick internet search can help point you in the right direction.
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How Much Do Car Inspections Cost?
The cost of a comprehensive car inspection depends on the state you live in, and the most expensive inspection is likely to be an extensive pre-purchase inspection that includes a comprehensive engine and road test. The cost of the inspection also depends on the model and make of the vehicle and the tests you need to perform, for example, if you drive an exotic car, you may have to pay more for the inspection.
Testing costs can run into the hundreds of dollars, and despite the cost, a car inspection is not something you can skip. Some states require emissions testing and safety inspections. A comprehensive car inspection can take several hours, and you can expect to pay between $50 and $200. However, a pre-purchase car inspection may reveal important repairs that need to be made before your vehicle can be driven reliably. Most states across the country have car safety and emissions inspections for under $100 if you choose a government-run testing facility. Certified or approved third-party shops usually charge more, but may offer expedited service.
With the introduction of new-age technology, it is no longer expensive to get a car inspection. For many people, getting a car inspection can be a significant expense, but it can also ensure that your vehicle is safe and performs well for years to come. But sometimes, the various inspection requirements can make you dizzy. Car inspections are inseparable from owning a vehicle, and paying for the inspection can also disrupt your plans if you are not sure how much to budget, where to go, and what type of inspection is required. So you may need to spend a few years carefully reading the inspection notice before you figure out how the system works. Before sending your vehicle in for an inspection, make sure you fully understand the associated fees to avoid being overcharged.
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