- Headlights.
- Accessory lights.
- Directional signals.
- Foot brake.
- Parking brake.
- Steering.
- Tires.
- Horn.
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 is required for a car to pass 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 vehicles are exempt from safety inspection in North Carolina?
Vehicles are exempt from emissions inspections under the following conditions:Some light-duty vehicles less than 3 years old or have fewer than 70,000 miles.Vehicle is 20 years old or olderDiesel-operated.Registered as a farm vehicle.
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 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 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.
Does a 20 year old car need to be inspected in NC?
As 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.
Do all cars have to be inspected in NC?
Regardless of age or mileage, all vehicles in North Carolina must pass a yearly auto safety inspection before the vehicle's registration can be renewed. The safety inspection requirement is in effect in all 100 North Carolina counties and is designed to protect the motoring public from unsafe vehicles.
Does new car need to be inspected in North Carolina?
A new vehicle must be inspected before it is sold at retail in North Carolina. Upon purchase, you will be provided a receipt certifying inspection compliance. The inspection conducted prior to your purchase is valid until the license plate is due for renewal.
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.
Is it illegal to drive with a cracked windshield in NC?
North Carolina does not have specific regulations concerning cracks or chips in the windshield. However, the state has enacted laws requiring insurance companies to waive the deductibles for those with comprehensive coverage that are having a windshield replaced.
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.
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.
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 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.
What is the minimum light transmittance for tinting windows?
Window Tinting. Window tinting must have a light transmittance of 32% or greater. Tint may not be red, yellow, or amber. Windshield tint cannot extend more than 5 inches below the top of the windshield or below the AS1 line, whichever is greater. Total light reflectance of a tinted window shall be 20% or greater.
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 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.
Do you have to have a vehicle inspection before you can renew your registration?
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 an NC DMV Inspection Checks
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:
Window Tinting Requirements
In order to pass your NC DMV inspection, any window tinting must be within acceptable bounds. A mechanic must check any after-market tinting with an approved window tint meter. This incurs an extra charge at the time of inspection. If your vehicle’s manufacturer tinted the windows, a mechanic doesn’t have to check the tinting.
Emissions Testing
Along with an annual state inspection, you may need an annual emissions test. This is required here in Forsyth county, as well as 21 other counties in North Carolina. You can see the full list here. If you live in the Triad, you most likely need an annual emissions test for your vehicle.
What Happens if You Fail Your NC Safety 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.
How to Ensure You Pass your Annual 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:
FAQs about Car Maintenance
Along with ensuring you pass your inspection, we can also help with other vehicle maintenance needs. 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.
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.
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; othe...
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 Carolina no longer issues inspection stickers for your windshield; once you pass your inspections, the insp…
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.