
For a 5-seater car, it is exempt from inspection within the first 6 years, but registration at the vehicle management office is required every two years without actual testing. Between 6 to 15 years, the car must be inspected annually. After 15 years, it requires inspection every six months. The inspection includes checking the engine, chassis, body, and internal components to ensure all functions operate normally, verifying the uniformity of the car's paint, and examining the braking and steering systems. Vehicle inspection is a mandatory test for all vehicles with official license plates and registration certificates, equivalent to an annual health check based on the safety technical conditions for motor vehicle operation.

I just went through this last year, having my five-seater car inspected after seven years on the road. Generally, new cars don’t require an in-person inspection for the first six years—just apply for the exemption mark every two years via the Traffic Management 12123 App. A few taps on the screen and it’s done, super hassle-free. Starting from the seventh year, you’ll need an annual inspection, mainly checking brakes, lights, etc., to ensure the car is safe. Mine is a family car, mostly used for school runs. Late inspections can result in a 200-yuan fine and affect insurance claims. Cars over 15 years old also require annual checks. I’d recommend setting a reminder to avoid forgetting. For the inspection, bring your ID and vehicle license, find a certified station, and it’ll take about half an hour, costing around 100-200 yuan—a small price for peace of mind.

I just got my new five-seater car on the road a few months ago, and a friend asked about the annual inspection during a chat. The first six years with a new car are indeed hassle-free—no need for on-site testing, just apply for the inspection sticker every two years via the 12123 APP, which is super easy. Starting from the seventh year, you'll need to visit the inspection station annually for a thorough check, including items like lights and emissions. I saw online that some people got fined for negligence, and older cars are more prone to issues, so I recommend regular maintenance alongside the annual inspection. The APP is incredibly convenient, saving you from queuing and allowing real-time progress tracking. My advice is to prioritize maintenance in the early years to extend the car's lifespan and avoid frequent inspections later on, which can be time-consuming.

I'm very familiar with the annual inspection rules for five-seater private cars. For vehicles under seven years old, you can apply for an exemption inspection sticker every two years without an on-site inspection. After seven years, an annual on-site inspection is required. For cars over fifteen years old, it's also an annual inspection, mainly to ensure the lighting and braking systems are functioning properly. Remember to do it on time—safety first. I've seen cases where insurance refused to pay for accidents involving overdue inspections, resulting in huge losses. You can use an APP to handle it, saving both time and money, with the inspection fee usually around 200 yuan. Don't overlook this small detail—keeping your vehicle healthy ensures long-term transportation.


