In the state of Texas, state vehicle inspections are mandatory. These inspections are designed to maximize safety for everyone. As a service we at Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanic offers, we would like to touch on the generalities of the inspection for you today and how to avoid it.
What Does a Vehicle Inspection Cover?
An auto inspection covers the following:
Undercarriage. Inspected and tested include wheels, suspension, tires, braking system, and driveline components. To avoid failure, prior to inspection, tires that are in poor condition should be replaced.
Body Condition. The technician checks for any indications of rust or corrosion on the chassis or body as well as measuring the thickness of paint. Areas that may have been involved in a collision and repairs completed as a result is also checked.
Road Test. To ensure the vehicle is driving properly, a test drive may often be performed and that all components are operating optimally with no trouble.
Emissions Testing. Harmful gases that contribute to poor air quality are emitted from the vehicles. To reduce gases into the atmosphere, vehicle equipped with emissions systems are intended. The emissions test is conducted to make sure of proper operations. You’ll need to address the error prior to your test, or you risk an automatic failure if your vehicle is running poorly, or the Check Engine Light is on.
Mechanical Inspection. Proper operations of the engine, cooling system, transmission, electrical system, and drivetrain is confirmed by the technician. It’s best to have them addressed prior to your inspection if you are aware of any difficulties with your vehicle.
Interior Condition. All seats, steering wheel, gear shift, the dashboard, brake and accelerator pedals, seat belts, emergency brake, and interior switches are inspected.
What Does a Texas State Auto Inspection Cover?
A test of the items listed below is included in most vehicle inspections in Texas.
– Windshield wipers
– Window Tint
– Wheel assembly
– Vehicle Identification Number
– Turn signals
– Tires
– Steering
– Seat Belts
– Reflectors
– Mirrors
– License plate light
– Horn
– High beam indicator
– Headlights, taillights, and brake lights
– Gas Caps (for cars aged 2 – 24 years old)
– Exhaust system/Emissions system
– Braking System
What Will Make You Fail a State Inspection in Texas?
There are several reasons why a vehicle may not pass the Texas State Vehicle Inspection because there are so many systems and components that are inspected. Vehicles begin to show their wear and tear and increase the likelihood of repairs with each passing mile over time. Versus vehicles that are driven frequently or that are seldom maintained, vehicles that are well-maintained or driven less frequently than other vehicles are more likely to pass. Take a look at the list if you’re preparing to have your vehicle inspected to avoid failing.
Lights Out: Look for any taillights, reverse lights, headlights, license plate lights that are burned out as well as operational turn signals. A driver may not even know it’s burned out and can be easily overlooked, often when it comes to head or taillights.
OBD Lights On: A communication to the driver that something needs attention is when Check Engine light or any other light is illuminated. Make sure they addressed before your inspection.
Worn Tires: For your own safety, check the conditions of your tires. Blowouts and affect fuel efficiency are the result in worn or underinflated tires.
Cracked or Dry Windshield Wipers: Every six months, you should replace the windshield wipers. Replace them if you can’t remember when you replaced them.
Parking Brake Issues: You should be using your parking brake every time you park. This may be something that gets overlooked if you use your parking brake infrequently.
State Vehicle Inspections in Dallas, Texas (Just Minutes Away from Addison, Balch Springs, Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Coppell, DeSoto, Duncanville, Farmers Branch, Ferris, Garland, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mesquite, Ovilla, Richardson, Rowlett, Sachse, Seagoville, Sunnyvale & Wylie, TX)
Call Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanic to schedule your next vehicle state inspection today!
