California Car & Truck Inspection FAQ

 


State Vehicle Emissions Testing & Inspection

With routine automobile inspections and periodic emissions checks, drivers can be informed about any mechanical problems with their vehicles. In case your vehicle failed to pass the inspection or the emissions test, you will definitely know it requires some immediate attention and possibly some repair. Vehicle owners need to make plans for the repair or service ASAP because it might endanger the reliability of the automobile and even lead to substantial penalties or even a disqualified registration. Therefore, it is always advised to have your vehicle examined by a skilled professional at the very least every 6 months to avoid all these hassles. Some frequently asked questions on automobile inspection are outlined here.


What is On-Board Diagnostics?

The OBD or On-Board Diagnostics, or OBD II is a standard computer system executed in all cars constructed in and after 1996. In short, all the automobiles made in 1996 and after will have an OBD system in them, which provides data records on self-diagnosis of the vehicle usually used by automobile professionals before performing any type of automobile repair work.


What Are The Most Common Causes Of a Failed Emissions Test?

A car emissions test can fail for several reasons because of malfunctioning automobile elements such as an injector, oxygen sensing unit, ignition system or perhaps an EVAP system. One of the more typical reasons is defective injectors. Either the injectors or a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can set off a “rich air-fuel combination” leading to an unsatisfactory vehicle emissions test result.

If your vehicle has damaged spark plugs, there is a higher possibility that it may be the source of a rise in exhaust emissions. This, subsequently, can lead to a failed vehicle-emissions examination.

Any type of issue or deficiencies in the EVAP system or evaporative emission control system can cause an issue in the handling of the gasoline vapor produced from the vehicle resulting in atmospheric pollution.

If your vehicle hasn’t undergone regular maintenance and the “check engine” light is lit up on the control panel, your automobile may not pass the vehicle-emissions test.


What Do They Check for in a Vehicle Inspection?

An accredited examiner performs an automobile examination at state-approved inspection stations only. This is what they will check for:

  • Headlights: headlight inspection to ensure proper operation, no broken lenses or lights, lights are the right color, are identical, and turn signals are operable.
  • Tail lights: Turn signals, marker lights, hazard lights, license plate lights, brake lights, reverse lights are operable, and no broken taillights
  • Wheels and Tires: to inspect tire conditions for any kind of indicators of wear and tear and if there is a requirement for replacement
  • Mirrors: Make sure no mirrors are broken, damaged or missing
  • Safety belt: to analyze seat belts’ condition and ensure they are safely working or require a replacement
  • Brakes: a thorough brake evaluation to ensure proper brake response and if there is any brake fluid leakages
  • Horn: make sure the horn is working correctly
  • Assessment of suspension and shock absorbers

How Long Does It Take To Get A Safety Inspection?

Depending on the state, city, and region where the car tests are performed, the vehicle safety inspection period may vary. Nevertheless, for most vehicles, this process generally takes an hour to an hour and a half.


 

 

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