How often should a 15-year-old vehicle undergo annual inspection?
3 Answers
15-year-old vehicles require annual inspection. The vehicle annual inspection process refers to the mandatory fixed procedure that all motor vehicles must undergo each year for inspection. It serves as a health check for vehicles, aiming to promptly eliminate potential safety hazards and reduce the occurrence of traffic accidents. Inspection timeframe: Vehicle owners may apply for the inspection compliance mark at the local vehicle management office within three months prior to the expiration of the current inspection validity period. Consequences of overdue inspection: Vehicles that fail to undergo annual inspection on time are prohibited from road use; In the event of a traffic accident involving such a vehicle, the involved party will bear full or primary liability, and insurance companies will not provide coverage.
My 15-year-old family car now requires an annual inspection. I remember that after the new regulations came into effect last October, I no longer have to go every six months like before, which saves a lot of time. During my last visit to the inspection station, the staff told me that for a car of this age, they mainly check the chassis, braking system, and exhaust emissions—areas where older cars are prone to issues. I replaced the brake pads and engine oil in advance, so it passed in one go. Actually, regular checks on tire wear and lighting can also help avoid re-inspections. After all, the annual inspection isn’t just about compliance—it’s also about taking responsibility for your own safety.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I think it's quite reasonable to have annual inspections for vehicles over 15 years old. It ensures safety without being too troublesome. My advice is to schedule a comprehensive maintenance check one or two weeks before the annual inspection, focusing on brake responsiveness, light brightness, and ensuring exhaust emissions meet standards. If these items have issues, not only will you fail the inspection, but it could also pose safety hazards on the road. Some friends find the inspection time-consuming, but considering accidents caused by brake failures, spending half a day at the testing station is actually worthwhile.
