Can a Vehicle with Scratches Pass the Annual Inspection?
2 Answers
It depends on the severity of the scratches. If they are very minor, the vehicle can generally pass the annual inspection. However, if the scratches are more severe, they should be addressed before the inspection. Below are detailed explanations: 1. Timing: Avoid scheduling the annual inspection on rainy or snowy days, as wet wheels can cause errors in measuring the vehicle's true braking force. 2. Vehicle Appearance: Pay attention to repairing the vehicle's exterior. Minor scratches and dings are common in daily use, but more serious damage can make it harder to pass the inspection. Therefore, obvious damage should be repaired before sending the vehicle for inspection. It's also advisable to wash the car before the inspection and remove any stickers on the body. 3. Fire Extinguisher: Check if there is a fire extinguisher in the trunk (note: ensure it is not expired) and a warning triangle. These items should always be kept in the vehicle, even during regular use.
I often encounter minor scratches on my car, like the last time when my car door got a scratch, it didn't affect the annual inspection at all. The annual inspection mainly checks safety components, such as the braking system, lights, emissions, and chassis. Those deep scratches won't be an issue if they don't damage the structure or obstruct visibility—they're purely cosmetic and won't affect passing. Actually, standards vary by region; some smaller cities don’t even check the exterior, while bigger cities might be slightly stricter. But as long as there are no major dents or cracks, there’s no need to worry. However, if the scratch is deep enough to expose the metal layer, it's best to repair it first to prevent rust and corrosion. In short, just wash your car before the inspection, and you’ll usually pass—no need to overthink it.
