A Helpful Checklist for Passing Auto Safety Inspections
Auto safety inspections are important for keeping motorists safe on the road. You'll need to pass them in order to continue driving your vehicle. You can have added confidence heading into these tests by remembering this checklist.
Perform a Cosmetic Check
The very first thing you should do when seeing if your vehicle can pass a safety inspection is performing a cosmetic check. This involves walking around your vehicle to see what general shape it's in. Make sure there are no exterior problems that would pose safety issues on the road, such as a cracked windshield, bumper falling off, or license plate hanging down. If these exterior issues are present, you'll need to have them addressed before taking your vehicle in to get inspected. You'll then have way more confidence and shouldn't have any problems with the person carrying out the inspection.
Test Out Exterior Lights
The lights on your vehicle are one of the most important systems that you need to ensure are working. They will be tested during the safety inspection after all, even though it may be during the day when you go in for the inspection.
Make sure you test out the brake lights, taillights, headlights, and high beams. All of these settings should be working perfectly. If they're not, then you'll need to have them replaced. You can typically take care of these replacements yourself without needing professional help. Or the inspector can replace them with your permission after the test is complete.
Prioritize Brake Condition
There are a lot of components that will be tested during an auto safety inspection, but one of the most important is the braking system. It's paramount that this system is in great shape because if it's not, your vehicle will not get a passing grade. If you hear any noise when applying the brakes, that's an indication there is a problem. It could be with the pads or the brake system itself. Either way, you need to have your vehicle looked at by an auto repair shop. They can fix whatever issue there is before you take your vehicle in for the official inspection.
To continue driving your vehicle each year, you'll have to pass auto safety inspections. This won't be difficult as long as you know what systems and parts need to be in great shape and performing optimally. As long as you address lingering issues that matter, you can pass these inspections each time with ease.