Vehicle Inspection Got You Worried? These 20 Tips Have You Covered

So, you think you know your way around a wrench and an oil can? Let’s take that know-how and ensure your ride breezes through inspection without a hitch. Here are 20 sneaky secrets to make sure you pass your vehicle inspection with flying colors.

1. Tidy Up the Engine Bay

A clean engine bay can give the inspector a good first impression. Use a degreaser to clean off any oil and grime. A neat engine compartment suggests a well-maintained vehicle.

2. Fix Small Cracks and Chips

Got a small crack in the windshield? Use a windshield repair kit to fill it in. This can prevent you from failing due to visibility issues.

3. Replace Burnt-Out Bulbs

Check all your lights, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior lights. Replace any burnt-out bulbs to avoid unnecessary failure points.

4. Check Your Tires

Make sure your tires are in good condition with plenty of tread depth. Use a penny to check—insert it into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down; if you see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires.

5. Clean or Replace Air Filters

A dirty air filter can affect emissions. Clean or replace it to ensure your car runs efficiently and meets emissions standards.

6. Top Off All Fluids

Ensure all your vehicle’s fluids are topped off, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Low fluid levels can raise red flags.

7. Tighten Up the Gas Cap

A loose gas cap can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test. Make sure it’s tightly secured to avoid triggering the check engine light.

8. Fix Small Leaks

Any visible fluid leaks can be a big problem. Fix oil, coolant, or transmission fluid leaks before your inspection to avoid automatic failure.

9. Ensure the Battery Is Secure

Check that your battery is securely fastened and the terminals are clean. Loose connections can cause electrical problems and inspection failures.

10. Test the Horn

Your horn must work correctly. Give it a quick honk to ensure it’s functioning properly.

11. Inspect the Brakes

Check the brake pads and rotors for wear. Ensure the brakes are functioning properly, and consider bleeding the brake lines to improve performance.

12. Clear the Check Engine Light

If your check engine light is on, use an OBD-II scanner to diagnose the issue. Fix any problems and clear the code before heading to the inspection.

13. Align Your Wheels

Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear and handling issues. Get an alignment check to ensure your wheels are properly aligned.

14. Check for Exhaust Leaks

Inspect your exhaust system for leaks or damage. A hole in the exhaust can cause high emissions and inspection failure.

15. Lubricate Door Hinges

Squeaky or hard-to-open doors can be annoying and could raise suspicion. Lubricate door hinges to ensure smooth operation.

16. Ensure Wipers Are Working

Check that your windshield wipers are functioning correctly and replace them if they’re worn out. Clear visibility is crucial for passing inspection.

17. Test Seat Belts

Make sure all seat belts are functioning correctly and retract fully. Any issues with seat belts can lead to a failed inspection.

18. Address Minor Body Damage

Fix any minor body damage, such as dents or rust spots. While cosmetic issues are often overlooked, severe damage can sometimes be problematic.

19. Keep the Interior Clean

A clean interior can make a good impression. Vacuum the carpets, clean the dashboard, and remove any clutter before your inspection.

20. Get a Pre-Inspection

Have a trusted mechanic do a pre-inspection. They can identify any potential issues that might cause your vehicle to fail and address them beforehand.

Pass With Flying Colors 

Passing a vehicle inspection is about attention to detail and proactive maintenance. Keep your car in top shape with these tips, and you’ll sail through inspections with ease. Remember, a well-maintained car not only passes inspections but also keeps you safe on the road.

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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / BhFoton.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.