How often should a 5-seater SUV undergo inspection?
4 Answers
5-seater SUVs are categorized into commercial and non-commercial use. For commercial passenger vehicles, inspections are required once a year within the first 5 years, and every 6 months after exceeding 5 years. Small and micro non-commercial passenger vehicles are exempt from annual inspections within the first 6 years, require inspection once a year after exceeding 6 years, and every 6 months after exceeding 15 years. A 5-seater SUV falls under the small passenger vehicle category. Annual inspection, also known as annual review, refers to the safety inspection conducted every year or every two years, covering comprehensive checks including the horn, brakes, axle weight, chassis, ignition system, lighting system, exhaust system, license plate installation, etc. Annual inspection usually refers to the examination of certain formal IC cards, while annual review is more commonly used in daily life.
I remember when I first bought my SUV, I was also particularly concerned about the annual inspection cycle. For our ordinary family's 5-seater SUV, the first 6 years are quite hassle-free—just get the electronic label directly through the 12123 mobile app. By the 6th year, you'll need to take it in for actual inspections like emissions and brake tests. After that, inspections are required again at the 8th and 10th years, and once the vehicle is over 10 years old, you'll need to visit the inspection station every year. Last time when my CR-V had its 6th-year inspection, they found uneven tire wear—luckily it was caught in time. The efficiency of inspection stations varies quite a bit by region, so choosing a less busy weekday can save you a lot of time. Definitely don’t wait until the end of the month when everyone’s rushing in.
Last month, I accompanied my neighbor for the annual inspection of his 5-seat Haval and specifically researched the policies. For new cars, within the first 6 years, you only need to apply for the exemption inspection sticker every two years without any on-site testing required. The 6th and 10th years are critical milestones where on-site testing is mandatory. Interestingly, during this period, the 8th year also requires an online sticker application, but no testing is needed. The inspection station staff told me they dread vehicles with modified headlights or lifted suspensions the most, as such modified cars usually fail the inspection line. They advised handling any traffic violations before the inspection to avoid a wasted trip. By the way, vehicles over 10 years old must undergo annual inspections, like my uncle’s 12-year-old RAV4.
I learned the 5-seater SUV annual inspection cycle the hard way. For the first 5 years, you only need to collect the inspection label every 2 years without an actual vehicle inspection. The first real inspection comes at year 6, with special focus on the catalytic converter and braking performance. Then at year 8, you can simply apply online, and won't need another physical inspection until year 10. Pay special attention - modified rims must not exceed OEM size. My buddy got stuck at the inspection station for switching to 20-inch rims. For older vehicles requiring annual inspections, remember to bring your compulsory traffic insurance policy. This year's new regulations also require OBD fault code checks - I recommend having the 4S shop check the data stream during routine maintenance.
