North Carolina Auto Inspection Checklist
- Automobile Inspection Checklist. The safety equipment checklist includes headlights, parking lights, tail lamps, beam indicator light, license plate light and brake light.
- Checklist Procedures. As of Nov. ...
- Special Vehicles. ...
- Emission Testing Checklist. ...
- Car Inspection Check 1: Headlights. ...
- Car Inspection Check 2: Tires. ...
- Car Inspection Check 3: Turn Signals. ...
- Car Inspection Check 4: Brakes. ...
- Car Inspection Check 5: Exhaust System. ...
- Car Inspection Check 6: Brake Lights and Other Accessory Lighting.
How early can you get a NC vehicle inspection?
- Less than 1 month: $15 fee
- Between 1-2 months: $20 fee
- More than 2 months $25 fee
What is checked in a NC vehicle safety inspection?
Safety Inspections
- Fees
- Failure to Pass Inspection. A vehicle that passes a safety inspection but fails the emissions inspection and can't be repaired might be eligible for a waiver.
- Learn More
How long can car go without inspection in NC?
Vehicles registered in an emission county must receive an emissions inspection in the second year of ownership. Vehicles older than 35 years are not required to receive inspections in any county. Some kit cars and custom vehicles are exempt from vehicle inspections.
What are the car inspection requirements in North Carolina?
- New vehicles made within the 3 most recent model years driven less than 70,000 miles
- Vehicles made in the 1995 model year or earlier
- Diesel vehicles
- Farm vehicles
- The alternative – fueled vehicles that do not use gasoline
- Vehicles weighing more than 8501 lbs
- Motorcycles
- Recreational vehicles (RVs)
- Motorhomes
What do they check for car inspection in NC?
During a safety inspection, a licensed mechanic examines a vehicle's headlights, signals, brakes, steering, windows and tires. Motor vehicles registered in 22 North Carolina counties must also pass an emissions inspection, which is conducted at the same time as the safety inspection.
What will fail a car inspection in NC?
5 Things to Check Before Your Next North Carolina State InspectionProblem 1: Tire Tread. ... Solution: Tire Replacement. ... Problem 2: Faulty Turn Signals. ... Solution: Light Bulb Change. ... Problem 3: Headlights. ... Solution: Headlight Service. ... Problem 4: Brakes. ... Solution: Brake Maintenance.More items...
What documents do I need to get my car inspected in NC?
You will need: photo ID, proof of liability insurance, and payment.
What will fail a car inspection?
One or more worn, damaged, or fouled sparkplugs are present. Catalytic converter is clogged, missing, or ineffective * Malfunctioning oxygen sensor. Internal engine parts may be malfunctioning or damaged.
Can I pass NC inspection with check engine light on?
Motorists should beware of offers to turn the "Check Engine" light off in an attempt to pass the OBD II test without making repairs. If the light has been turned off without making necessary emission-related repairs, it will come back on and the vehicle will not pass the test.
Will a tire pressure sensor fail inspection in NC?
No. TPMS is inspected but it is not grounds for inspection failure.
How much does NC inspection cost?
North Carolina state vehicle inspection fees are $13.60. Emissions inspection fees, which include vehicle inspections, cost $30.00. Your vehicle must pass inspection before its registration can be renewed. You must have your vehicle inspected no more than 90 days before your plate expires.
Will a cracked windshield pass inspection in NC?
Car Inspection Check 8: Windshield Glass In some (but not all) cases, a cracked windshield can lead to a failed inspection in North Carolina. This is often the case if the cracked windshield obstructs the driver's vision in a way that impacts the car's safety.
Do you need your registration to get your car inspected in NC?
An unregistered vehicle must be inspected before the vehicle can be registered. If the registration cannot be issued until it is inspected – and I can't drive it to the inspection station – how do I legally get the car in compliance?
What year vehicle is exempt from inspection in NC?
If your car is at least 20 years old, you'll no longer need to get it tested for emissions in North Carolina starting Dec. 1. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency this fall agreed with state legislators that it's not necessary to test the emissions equipment on cars and trucks older than 20 years.
What year cars have to be inspected in NC?
20 yearsAs of December 1, 2019, vehicles with a model year with in 20 years of the current calendar year will require a safety and emissions inspection.
When you do a vehicle check what do you not need to keep an eye on?
You don't need to keep an eye on the cleanliness of windows and mirrors in cars, as this can be achieved at every facility.
What happens if you don't get your vehicle inspected?
Failure to get a vehicle inspected by the due date will result in a vehicle's registration being blocked until the vehicle is inspected .
How long before license plate expires can you do an emissions inspection?
They can be conducted no more than 90 days before the license plate and registration expires. During a safety inspection, a licensed mechanic examines a vehicle's: Motor vehicles registered in 22 North Carolina counties must also pass an emissions inspection, conducted at the same time as the safety inspection.
What is an antique license plate?
Those vehicles with an antique automobile license plate are exempt from both annual safety and emissions inspections. Antique plates should be used for vehicles primarily used for exhibitions, club activities, parades and other public interest events.
What does a car inspection in North Carolina check?
North Carolina car inspections check both your rearview mirror and side mirrors. These mirrors must be properly in place, mounted securely, effective, easy to clean (no sharp cracks), and simple to adjust.
What is NC emissions inspection?
While NC emissions inspections are relatively new, exhaust system checks have been around for years as a part of the annual safety inspection. This safety inspection step checks for removed, broken, tampered, or disconnected exhaust system parts and emissions control devices. Depending on your vehicle, this can include your catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipe, air pump system, EGR valve, PCV valve, and oxygen sensor, among others.
What is the DMV accessory light?
Listed as “accessory lighting” by the DMV, this component of your car inspection includes checking your brake lights, taillights, license plate lights, reverse lights, and any other lights that may need servicing.
What is the car inspection check 8?
Car Inspection Check 8: Windshield Glass. In some (but not all) cases, a cracked windshield can lead to a failed inspection in North Carolina. This is often the case if the cracked windshield obstructs the driver’s vision.
Why do tires fail inspections?
Beyond just the tread depth, you can fail your inspection if your tires have any structural tire issues, including cuts that expose the cords, visible bumps, knots, or bulges. These can be caused by extended wear and tear or by specific wheel problems, such as bent rims. If any of these issues are present, you will need new tires to pass your inspection.
Can you fail a NC parking brake inspection?
Both your foot brake and your parking brake are checked during an NC inspection, and they both need to work properly for you to pass. One of the most common brake problems that can cause you to fail your inspection is worn brake pads. This issue can easily be repaired with proper brake service .
What are the inspections required for NC?
The North Carolina inspections process consists of two parts: vehicle emissions inspections and safety inspections. Many North Carolina counties require both inspections upon registration renewal, though there are a few initial exceptions. North Carolina residents new to the state aren't required to bring their vehicles in for inspections until it's time to renew their NC registrations.
What are the two parts of a vehicle inspection?
There are two parts to the inspection process: emissions inspections and safety inspections. Your vehicle must pass both inspections before you can renew your registration.
What happens if my car fails the emissions inspection?
If your vehicle fails the emissions inspection, you might be eligible for an emissions waiver as long as it meets the criteria set forth in the North Carolina General Statute 20 – 183.5.
Do you have to have your car inspected again?
Once everything checks out, you won't have to have the vehicle inspected again until it's time for registration renewal.
Do you have to bring your car in for inspection in NC?
North Carolina residents new to the state aren't required to bring their vehicles in for inspections until it's time to renew their NC registrations. North Carolina requires most vehicles in designated counties to undergo safety and vehicle emissions inspections.
How old do you have to be to get an antique license plate?
Vehicle is 20 years old or older. Vehicles 30 years old or older may qualify for an antique automobile license plate . Those vehicles with an antique automobile license plate are exempt from both annual safety and emissions inspections.
Can a waiver be issued for failure of a safety item?
All safety items must pass. A waiver cannot be issued for the failure of a safety item.
How to ensure you pass a car inspection?
The easiest way to ensure you pass is to keep your car in good conditional all year long. Before your inspection, check the following:
Who sets the price for safety inspections?
The state sets the pricing for your safety inspection. You can read more about it here.
How far can you tint your windshield in North Carolina?
Here in North Carolina, window tinting cannot exceed 32%. It also cannot extend below your front windshield’s AS1 line or more than five inches from the top of your windshield, whichever is longer. Unless you have an exemption, your vehicle will fail inspection if it doesn’t follow these guidelines.
What does a licensed mechanic do?
A licensed mechanic will check your vehicle during your state inspection. These safety checks make sure your vehicle is safe to operate on the road. It does not necessarily ensure your vehicle won’t break down. Here’s what it does check:
What happens if my car fails the emissions test?
If your vehicles fails the emissions test, don’t worry. You might be eligible for a waiver. You must pass the safety inspection, however, in order to receive this waiver.
Does a vehicle inspection cover battery?
The inspection only covers what keeps your vehicle safe on the road. However, it doesn’t check things like your battery or transmission to keep your car from breaking down. Here are a few frequently asked questions about vehicle maintenance.
Can you repair a vehicle that doesn't pass inspection?
Vehicles that don’t pass inspection need repairs to be able to pass inspection. You can have them done here at Kernersville Auto Center, but you are also welcome to shop around if you wish. Typically, we can do repairs at the time of inspection. Many vehicles simply need a new light bulb to replace one that has burned out, for example.
What is a car inspection checklist?
Later, the inspector presents a vehicle checklist that identifies the defects and mechanical issues of your car. To finalize the car inspection checklist, the inspector also provides a list of recommendations as well as a rating of your vehicle’s overall roadworthiness. Whether you own a personal vehicle, manage a cab service or logistics fleet, you can keep your own vehicle checklist handy.
What is the purpose of a vehicle inspection checklist?
The main purpose of a vehicle checklist is to make your vehicle effective. Here are a few guidelines to consider when making your own vehicle inspection checklist:
How to do a physical inspection on windshield wipers?
Do the same with the rear-window wiper. Squirt some washer fluid on the glass while the wipers move so they can clean the glass without smearing.
Why do you need a vehicle inspection?
It lists all of the things that need inspection to ensure that every part of the vehicle gets checked. It informs the inspector which parts of your vehicle need maintenance work, replacement or repair. Most vehicular parts should undergo necessary inspection to ensure optimal vehicle performance.
Why do you need to have your car checked?
As part of a vehicle’s maintenance, you should have it checked regularly to make sure it’s functioning properly. When you get your car checked up, the inspector starts with a blank vehicle inspection sheet. This is an important tool to identify defects and mechanical issues of a vehicle undergoing inspection.
What should be included in a vehicle maintenance checklist?
The details to include in your vehicle maintenance checklist are: Details of the vehicle inspector. You should jot down the details of the one who will perform the inspection of your vehicle. This makes it easier to identify the person in charge of the inspection in case they get tempted to cut corners during inspection.
What is a vehicle checklist?
As the name implies, a vehicle checklist is mainly intended for vehicles when performing vehicle checks. There are several vehicle inspection checklists you can use. For instance, we have a vehicle maintenance checklist that mechanics use to check the parts and functions of your vehicle.
What is the minimum requirement for light transmittance in North Carolina?
All devices used within the State of North Carolina to measure light transmittance through vehicle windshields or other windows shall as a minimum meet the requirements of Rule .0552 of this Section before being approved for use in enforcing state inspection laws and for law enforcement use throughout the state.
What happens if you pay inspection fee at the time of the original inspection?
Payment of the inspection fee at the time of the original inspection by the owner or operator of a " disapproved" vehicle entitles the vehicle to reinspection, free of charge, by the initial inspection station.
What is the emission test for 1975?
This exhaust emission test is in addition to the safety inspection required in the rules in this Section and shall be administered as a part of the regular inspection only. The exhaust emission readings resulting from the test must be at or below the standards as set forth in Paragraph (e) of this Rule or a waiver must be issued by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles or his designated agent as specified in 19A NCAC 3D .0551. The current year model vehicle shall be subject to the exhaust emissions inspection if presented for reinspection at anytime after the original inspection.
Can you apply for an appointment as a safety equipment inspection station?
No application for appointment as a safety equipment or safety equipment exhaust emissions inspection station or self-inspector shall be approved unless the requirements are met as set out in this Section.
Who issues a written waiver for exhaust emissions?
The Commissioner, or Enforcement Section employees who are designated by the Commission er, may issue a written waiver from the applicable exhaust emissions test standards for any vehicle, except vehicles listed in Paragraph (g) of this Rule, if the waiver issuance criteria have been met.
Do brakes need inspection stickers?
No vehicle brakes shall be approved for an inspection sticker unless the items indicated in this Rule are inspected and found to meet the minimum requirements established in G.S. 20-124 and this Rule.
New North Carolina Residents
North Carolina Inspection Requirements and Exemptions
- Most vehicles in qualifying counties must undergo vehicle emissions and safetyinspections. There are two parts to the inspection process: emissions inspections and safetyinspections. Your vehicle must pass both inspections before you can renew your registration. You must complete both inspections within 90 daysbefore your registration expires; otherwise, your registration renewal is blocked.
How to Get A Vehicle Inspection in NC
- You can search for an inspection location nearest you using the North Carolina Inspection Station Locations list. Make sure to call ahead for days and hours of operation. You'll need to bring: 1. Your vehicle registration. 2. Applicable fees, which include: 2.1. $30 for the emissions inspection. 2.2. $13.60 for the vehicle safety inspection. North ...
What If You Failed The NC Vehicle Inspection?
- If your vehicle fails the safety inspection, you must make the necessary repairs and undergo another inspection. If your vehicle fails the emissions inspection, you might be eligible for an emissions waiver as long as it meets the criteria set forth in the North Carolina General Statute 20 – 183.5. For more information about waiver eligibility, the NC DMV recommends contacting them at (877) 421-0020.