During a safety inspection, a licensed mechanic examines a vehicle's:
- Headlights
- Accessory lights
- Directional signals
- Foot brake
- Parking brake
- Steering
- Tires
- Horn
- Rearview mirror
- Windshield wipers
- Exhaust system
- Tinted windows, if applicable
Full Answer
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
What are NC safety inspection requirements?
- It passes the safety inspection but fails the emissions inspection analysis of data provided by the on-board diagnostic equipment.
- It has documented repairs costing at least the $200 waiver amount to correct the cause of the failure.
- It is re-inspected and again passes the safety inspection but fails the on-board diagnostic analysis.
Which states require a vehicle safety inspection?
These states include:
- Delaware
- Illinois
- Nebraska
- Mississippi
- Rhode Island
What is a North Carolina vehicle safety inspection?
A motor vehicle registered in North Carolina must pass an annual safety inspection before its registered owner can renew its vehicle registration. 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: Headlights
What happens if a vehicle fails a safety inspection?
How old does a car need to be to have an emissions inspection?
How much does a vehicle inspection cost?
How much tread depth do you need for a safety inspection?
What are the requirements for exterior lights?
Can a windshield wiper get caught up on a windshield?
Do you need a rearview mirror in North Carolina?
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What do they check in NC car inspection?
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 is needed to pass NC inspection?
Motor vehicles registered in 22 North Carolina counties must also pass an emissions inspection, conducted at the same time as the safety inspection....During a safety inspection, a licensed mechanic examines a vehicle's:Headlights.Accessory lights.Directional signals.Foot brake.Parking brake.Steering.Tires.Horn.More items...•
Can you pass an inspection with a check engine light in NC?
Your Vehicle Inspection Receipt/Statement (VIRS) will list Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that indicate the general area of the emission control systems that do not pass inspection. If the check engine light remains on, you will need to have the problem properly diagnosed and your vehicle repaired prior to retest.
Will a tire pressure sensor fail inspection in NC?
No. TPMS is inspected but it is not grounds for inspection failure.
Will a cracked windshield pass NC inspection?
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.
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.
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.
How old does a car have to be to not need emissions in NC?
20 years oldIf 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.
How do you do the check engine light trick?
0:111:06CAR HACK: EASY Check Engine Light Fix! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThree times hit the lock button unlock button and then a lock button twice scream.MoreThree times hit the lock button unlock button and then a lock button twice scream.
How can I make my check engine light go off for inspection?
However there is more to it than simply turning it off. By the way the easiest way to turn off the check engine light would be to disconnect the battery for 30 seconds. Inorder to pass inspection your car needs to complete a full drive cycle so that all (8) internal monitors have a status of "Ready".
How many incomplete monitors are allowed in NC?
Gasoline Powered Vehicles: - 1996-1999 model year vehicles will be allowed one incomplete readiness/emission monitor; any (1) one "not ready" monitor is allowed. - 2000 and newer model year vehicles will need all emission monitors in READY or COMPLETE status, with the exception of the EVAP monitor.
North Carolina Car Inspection Exemptions & Requirements | DMV.ORG
SUMMARY: North Carolina Vehicle Inspections. 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 ...
Official NCDMV: Vehicle Emission Inspection
In conjunction with an annual safety inspection, motor vehicles registered in 22 North Carolina counties in the table below must undergo an on-board diagnostic emissions inspection as part of requirements to keep air quality standards in compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.*
Emissions Inspections Exempts 20-Year-Old Vehicles Starting Dec. 1
RALEIGH – Beginning Dec. 1, North Carolina’s vehicle inspections requirement will exempt vehicles 20 years old from obtaining a yearly emissions test in the 22 counties which emissions testing is required.
Emissions Inspection Not Required for First Three Years or 70,000 Miles ...
State inspections got easier for some vehicle owners in 2015, but many are still confused about whether they qualify for an emissions test exemption. Vehicles that were produced within three years of the current year and have less than 70,000 miles on the odometer are exempt from the annual emissions inspection since they are covered by a warranty and very seldom have emission component failures.
NC DMV Inspection Requirements - How to Pass with Flying Colors
If you own a vehicle in North Carolina, you probably need an annual NC DMV inspection. In most counties, you also need an emissions test. In order to drive your vehicle, these are requirements.
North Carolina Safety and Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs
Overview . The 2017 session of the North Carolina General Assembly directed the Department of Transportation (DOT), Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Department of
What is a safety inspection in NC?
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. Failure to get a vehicle inspected by the due date will result in a vehicle's registration being blocked until ...
Do you need a safety inspection to renew your car registration in NC?
Safety Inspections. A motor vehicle registered in North Carolina must pass an annual safety inspection before its registered owner can renew its vehicle registration.
Does NC require emissions inspection?
Motor vehicles registered in 22 North Carolina counties must also pass an emissions inspection, conducted at the same time as the safety inspection. Failure to get a vehicle inspected by the due date will result in a vehicle's registration being blocked until the vehicle is inspected.
What is a safety 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.
How long does it take to get a vehicle inspection in NC?
The inspection must be completed within 90 days of renewing the vehicle. During a safety inspection, a licensed mechanic examines a vehicle's headlights, signals, brakes, steering, windows and tires.
How to get an out of state vehicle exemption?
To receive an out-of-state exemption, you will need to submit a vehicle maintenance receipt such as an oil change, tire rotation performed or other maintenance on the vehicle. The service invoice must include the name, phone number and address of the company who performed the service.
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 first check for car inspection?
As you might have guessed, proper steering is essential to vehicle safety. One of the first checks here involves “free play” with your steering wheel , which is the term used to describe any extra motion needed from your steering wheel before it begins to turn your wheels.
Why does my windshield fail inspection?
It may also cause a failed inspection if the damage impacts the proper functioning of any other vehicle safety device , such as the windshield wipers or rearview mirror mounting.
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.
Do motorcycles need inspections in NC?
For example, instead of requiring two properly-functioning headlights, motorcycle inspections, naturally, only require one.
Can you renew your NC registration if it has failed inspection?
Unfortunately, you cannot renew your NC registration with a failed inspection. Instead, the DMV will block your registration application until your vehicle passes. Thankfully, these inspections are completed by mechanics, who happen to know a thing or two about repairs.
Do you need to be inspected for tinting in NC?
If you have had your windows tinted, they may need to be inspected to ensure that they meet the NC state guidelines. This only applies to after-factory window tinting. An expert will use a photometer to ensure that the tint has a light transmittance of more than 32% and that the light reflectance is not 20% or less. They will also ensure that the tint is properly placed and colored. Any professional tinting your windows should follow state guidelines, so this is unlikely to cause you to fail your inspection.
What Is a Vehicle Safety Inspection Checklist?
Whenever the inspector or mechanic inspects your motor vehicle, you can usually see them going through an inspection checklist. A Vehicle Safety Inspection Checklist is used by an authorized mechanic at a vehicle inspection center to serve as a guide whenever they check your vehicle for issues.
What Is Included in a Vehicle Safety Inspection Checklist?
Getting your vehicle inspected thoroughly can have a positive long-term benefit on the owner because it saves you time and money that you would have used for buying expensive replacement vehicle parts if you don’t notice them begin to wear out and eventually fail. Here are the most common things that are included in a vehicle inspection checklist :
How to Create a Vehicle Safety Inspection Checklist
A Vehicle Safety Inspection Checklist is essential for any vehicle inspection center as it makes the usually rigorous and complicated task easier, less confusing, and more streamlined.
What is the benefit of having my vehicle inspected?
You save costs in the long run, and it also extends the vehicle’s service life. Inspections also reduce the costs of repair and replacement, hereby maximizing your vehicle’s value. It also prevents small defects that are detected during the inspection from evolving into much bigger ones.
How often should I get my vehicle inspected?
This depends on how frequently you use your vehicle. But it is generally recommended that you get your vehicle routinely inspected during every oil change visit. It can be within 3 to 6 months, and it can also be every 10000 kilometers traveled, whichever comes first.
How much does a vehicle safety inspection cost?
The cost of getting your vehicle inspected totally depends on the place you live, and the type of the inspection performed, whether it is routine, or component-specific. It also depends on the type of vehicle, as small cars and motorcycles have fewer components than a trailer truck, and thus is much cheaper to inspect.
What happens if I fail my vehicle inspection?
In most places, the inspectors will usually place a “failed inspection” sticker on your vehicle. You are then given time to repair the vehicle and get it reinspected. The inspector also gives a detailed report on the components of the vehicle that caused it to fail the inspection.
Exemptions
Vehicles are exempt from emissions inspections under the following conditions:
Failure to Pass Inspection
The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles’ License & Theft Bureau may issue a waiver for a vehicle that meets all the following conditions:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
What happens if a vehicle fails a safety inspection?
What Happens If The Vehicle Fails An Inspection. If your vehicle fails inspection, you can present it for re-inspection within 60 days. If you failed the safety inspection, only the failed components will be reevaluated the second time.
How old does a car need to be to have an emissions inspection?
If your vehicle is three years old or newer and has less than 70,000 miles, you do not need to have an emissions inspection. This is due to a new law granting the exception. Effective December 1, 2019, vehicles that are twenty years old or older are exempt from emissions inspections.
How much does a vehicle inspection cost?
The annual vehicle safety inspection cost $13.60. If you are in one of the 48 counties that require onboard diagnostics emissions inspections, the price is $30, which includes both the emissions and safety inspections. Aftermarket window tinting costs an additional $10.
How much tread depth do you need for a safety inspection?
All tires must be in good condition and have at least 2/32 inch of tread depth remaining. Any tires under this specification must be replaced before your vehicle can pass.
What are the requirements for exterior lights?
This includes the headlights, brake lights, taillights, license plate lights, turn signal lights, and parking lights. The lights must all be properly mounted and have no cracks in the lenses. The headlights must be properly aimed, not pointing at the ground or up in the air.
Can a windshield wiper get caught up on a windshield?
And it can't be big enough so that a windshield wiper can get caught up on it. If you can rub a fingernail over the crack and it catches, you will fail the inspection. In any case, it's always a good idea to have your glass replaced if it's cracked.
Do you need a rearview mirror in North Carolina?
A rearview mirror is required for all the vehicles in North Carolina unless the vehicle is constructed or regularly loaded in such a way that a rearview mirror will be ineffect ive. In this case you are required to have a both driver and passenger side mirror.