Does a small car need to undergo an on-site inspection in its sixth year?
3 Answers
Vehicles in their sixth year require an on-site inspection during the annual review. Below is relevant information about vehicle inspections: Vehicle inspection schedule: If the vehicle is new and within 6 years, it can be exempted from inspection twice (requiring only an inspection label application every two years without on-site inspection); in the 6th and 8th years, the vehicle must undergo an on-site inspection. For private cars over 10 years old, the original inspection cycle still applies: annual inspection for vehicles aged 10 to 15 years, and semi-annual inspection for vehicles over 15 years old. Notes regarding motor vehicles: The vehicle owner can apply for an inspection compliance mark at the local vehicle management office within 3 months before the expiration of the current inspection period. Motor vehicle safety inspection agencies must conduct inspections according to national safety standards and bear legal responsibility for the inspection results.
Quite a few friends have asked me about this question. According to the current regulations, new cars within 6 years are exempt from inspection, but by the 6th year, they must undergo an on-site inspection. My car just turned 6 years old last year, so I took time off to visit the inspection station. You need to bring your vehicle license and compulsory traffic insurance policy, and the queue took about two hours. The main checks include exhaust emissions, lights, brakes, and other items. Remember to settle any traffic violations beforehand, or the inspection station won’t process your request. Nowadays, you can also book an inspection slot via mobile apps to save time. The inspection fee is around 400 RMB, though it varies by location. A reminder to everyone: don’t delay until it’s overdue, as late inspections may incur fines.
Indeed, the sixth year requires an on-site inspection. I've specifically researched this policy. For the first six years, new cars only need to collect the inspection sticker online every two years, but starting from the seventh year, an annual inspection is required. Last time when I helped my cousin with this, the staff at the inspection station said the key is to check the registration date on the vehicle license. It's advisable to schedule it one month in advance to avoid the peak period at the end of the month. The inspection items are quite comprehensive, including detailed checks on tire wear and chassis components. If you've modified rims or headlights, you'll need to restore them beforehand, otherwise you definitely won't pass. Inspection stations are also open on weekends, so working professionals can go then.
