Does a car that is exactly 6 years old need to go through the inspection line?
4 Answers
The sixth-year vehicle annual inspection requires passing the inspection line. For a car that is exactly six years old, the annual inspection process is the same as the regular annual inspection. You need to drive the vehicle to the inspection station with your ID card, vehicle license, vehicle and vessel tax or tax exemption certificate, and compulsory traffic insurance policy. After passing the inspection, you will receive a certification form. Take this form along with the required documents to the relevant window to obtain the annual inspection sticker. Notes for the sixth-year vehicle inspection: On-site inspection: After submitting the inspection application, the vehicle must first undergo on-site inspection. Drive the vehicle into the automatic inspection area to check exhaust emissions, speed, lights, side slip, and chassis to ensure they meet the standards. The vehicle will pass only if all items are qualified. Exterior inspection: Verify the vehicle's license plate, type, body color, engine number, VIN code, and frame number for accuracy. Inspect the body exterior: Check details such as the bumper, engine compartment, rearview mirrors, lower mirrors, window glass, paint, engine operation status, and the interior and wheels of passenger vehicles.
My car just turned 6 years old, which means it's time for the mandatory inspection. The first few years with a new car were easier—just submit the documents online for exemption. But hitting the 6-year mark is a critical point, legally requiring an on-site inspection, followed by another one two years later. My first time was quite a hassle—spending the whole morning at the inspection station, checking lights, brakes, and emissions, all while worrying about minor issues that might cause a fail. Experience tells me it's best to do basic maintenance beforehand, like replacing bulbs or checking tire wear, to avoid last-minute surprises. The inspection is mandatory; skipping it could mean a fine of a few hundred yuan if caught, not to mention the bigger headache of having your car impounded and disrupting daily life. Safety comes first, so I recommend fellow drivers plan ahead, pick an off-peak day, and bring the vehicle license and insurance documents.
I think it's indeed necessary for a car to undergo an on-site inspection after 6 years, as I personally experienced last year. The new car exemption period is over, and now it's required every two years, which is quite annoying but unavoidable. The inspection covers many aspects, such as headlight brightness, brake sensitivity, and environmental emission tests. If the car fails to meet the standards, it needs to be re-inspected. The cost isn't high, around 100 to 200 yuan, but the queue takes time. Nowadays, you can book an inspection station online, which saves some trouble. Regular vehicle maintenance, like changing tires and fixing brakes, helps pass the inspection in one go. Forgetting the inspection has serious consequences. A fine is minor, but the inspection record affects the future resale value and insurance claims. It's best to go on weekends when you have time, don't wait until the last minute.
For vehicles that are exactly 6 years old, an on-road inspection is mandatory. The policy clearly states that such vehicles have completed their exemption period and must undergo biennial inspections. Common test items include lighting system checks, brake performance tests, and exhaust emission controls. I recommend owners first self-check if lights function properly and assess brake pad wear to avoid retesting due to failures. Environmental requirements demand ensuring smooth engine operation. Timely inspections can promptly identify potential hazards like tire aging, enhancing driving safety. Neglecting this may result in fines or road-use restrictions for the vehicle.
