How many years before a car needs to be inspected twice a year?
2 Answers
Commercial passenger vehicles over 5 years old, commercial trucks and large/medium non-commercial passenger vehicles over 10 years old, and small/mini non-commercial passenger vehicles over 15 years old all require biannual inspections. New inspection regulations: Starting from November 20, 2020, non-commercial mini/micro passenger vehicles with 7-9 seats (excluding minivans) within 6 years are included in the exemption range. Meanwhile, non-commercial mini/micro passenger vehicles (excluding minivans) over 6 but under 10 years old have their inspection cycle relaxed from annual to biennial inspections. This means private cars only need 2 on-site inspections within 10 years - at the 6th and 8th years. Specific inspection items: Check whether the engine, chassis, body and accessories are clean, complete and functional; whether the paint is uniform and aesthetically pleasing; whether major assemblies have been replaced and match initial inspection records; verify if the vehicle's braking performance, steering control, lighting, exhaust and other safety features meet technical requirements for safe operation; check if the vehicle has been modified, reconstructed or altered, and whether the registration documents, license plates and vehicle records match current conditions with proper approval procedures; inspect if license plates, registration certificates and enlarged license plate markings show damage, tampering or unclear characters that may require replacement.
My own car has to undergo two inspections a year after being driven for 10 years, mainly because the older parts are prone to problems, such as brakes and tires that may wear out or get damaged. I experienced the inspection at the 10-year mark and found that the axle was leaking oil, which could have caused a serious issue. Since then, having a check-up every six months has actually given me peace of mind, as it helps detect minor problems early, saving money and ensuring safety, especially for long-distance trips. I recommend fellow car owners to pay extra attention to the brake system and lighting when approaching the 10-year mark to reduce the chance of malfunctions.
