How often should a car be inspected after six years?
2 Answers
For small and micro non-commercial passenger vehicles after six years, an annual inspection is required. Below are the inspection items for vehicle annual checks: 1. Inspection: Check whether the engine, chassis, body, and auxiliary equipment are clean, complete, and functional; whether the paint is uniform and aesthetically pleasing; whether major assemblies have been replaced; and whether they match the initial inspection records. 2. Testing: Verify whether the vehicle's braking performance, steering control, lighting, exhaust, and other safety features comply with the "Technical Conditions for Safe Operation of Motor Vehicles." 3. Vehicle inspection: Check whether the vehicle has been modified, remodeled, or had its license plate altered; whether all registered details in the vehicle file match the actual condition of the vehicle and if any changes have been made; and whether approval and modification procedures have been completed. 4. License plate: Inspect whether the license plate and the enlarged characters sprayed on the vehicle are damaged, altered, or illegible, and whether replacement is needed. 5. Transfer of registration: Verify whether the required procedures for transfer or ownership change have been completed and whether the registered vehicle matches the actual vehicle in possession.
As a seasoned driver, I must remind you to pay attention to the timeline after the 6-year exemption from inspection expires. The 7th year requires an on-site inspection, then the 8th year is exempt—just apply for the e-sticker. By the 10th year, you’ll need another on-site inspection. After that, vehicles over 10 years old must undergo annual inspections. Recently, I helped a friend who was fined ¥200 and penalized 3 points for overdue inspection—totally not worth it. I recommend setting a phone reminder for inspections; the 12123 APP now sends notifications three months in advance. Oh, and for vintage cars over 15 years old, inspections are required every six months—don’t forget to check wear-prone parts like brakes and chassis.
