Can a Snorkel Installation Pass the Annual Vehicle Inspection?
2 Answers
Adding a snorkel is not a legal modification and will not pass the annual inspection. Here are some important points to note for vehicle inspections: 1. Handle traffic violations: Ensure all traffic violations are settled before the inspection, as unresolved violations can delay the process. Failure to address these may not only prevent the vehicle from passing the inspection but also require the owner to spend time queuing at the traffic police station to resolve them. It is advisable to check for any outstanding violations before proceeding with the inspection. 2. Prepare necessary documents: Before the inspection, gather the required materials, including the applicant's ID card, a valid compulsory traffic insurance policy (copies, originals, electronic policies, or duplicates with the insurance company's red stamp are acceptable, and the policy must include the vehicle and vessel tax), and the vehicle's registration certificate. 3. Schedule in advance: Try to avoid peak periods for inspections. You can call the inspection station in advance for inquiries or book an appointment online. Recently, Anche's motor vehicle inspection booking platform was highly praised by customers upon its launch. This platform allows setting a maximum number of bookings for a specific time slot, preventing further bookings once the limit is reached.
To be honest, I've been off-roading for many years. While a snorkel can indeed protect the engine when crossing deep water, whether it can pass annual vehicle inspections is really uncertain. It mainly depends on local DMV regulations. During inspections, examiners check if the vehicle's appearance matches its factory condition. If illegal modifications are found, the vehicle will be rejected outright. If the snorkel is installed too conspicuously on the exterior, it might be deemed a safety hazard or an alteration to the original vehicle structure, leading to a failed inspection. I recommend owners consult their local DMV before installation, or keep the original parts to reinstall before inspections. In short, don’t blindly follow trends—understand the policies to avoid unnecessary trouble.
