How often should a car over 6 years old be inspected?
4 Answers
Article 16 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law" stipulates: Non-operational motor vehicles over 6 years old must be inspected every two years from the sixth to the tenth year. Vehicles over 10 years old must be inspected annually, while those over 15 years old require inspection every six months. Operational motor vehicles over 6 years old must be inspected every six months. The documents required for vehicle annual inspection include the vehicle's driving license, valid compulsory insurance policy, the owner's ID card, and all traffic violation records must be cleared in advance. Other supplements: Trucks and large or medium-sized non-operational passenger vehicles must be inspected annually within 10 years, and every six months if over 10 years old. Motorcycles must be inspected every two years within 4 years, and annually if over 4 years old. Vehicle annual inspection mainly includes the following items: Exterior inspection: The main checks include vehicle lights, body appearance, suspension, sunroof, and tires—whether the lights are functioning properly, if there are any non-working lights, if the body has been repainted, or if the suspension has been modified. Emission test: Whether the vehicle's tailpipe emissions meet national standards during high-speed operation. On-road inspection: Primarily checks the vehicle's braking system, headlights, horn, and chassis. Violation check: All traffic violation records must be cleared before the annual inspection to pass. Vehicle annual inspection can be conducted up to 90 days in advance but must not be overdue. According to Article 47, Paragraph 4 of the "Motor Vehicle Registration Management Measures," vehicles that fail to undergo safety technical inspections within the specified period will be issued a warning or fined by the public traffic management department. The inspection can only proceed after the fine is paid. Consequences of failing to inspect on time include: Vehicles that miss the inspection deadline are not allowed on the road. Driving an uninspected vehicle will result in 3 penalty points and a fine. If an uninspected vehicle is involved in a traffic accident, the owner bears full or primary responsibility, and insurance will not cover the damages. Driving an uninspected vehicle is considered illegal and may lead to vehicle impoundment.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I know that vehicles over 6 years old require annual inspections. This is no trivial matter—it directly impacts both personal and others' safety. I remember two years ago when my car turned 7, during its first inspection, we discovered the brake lights weren't working. Thankfully, we fixed them promptly, averting a potential accident. Now, as inspection time approaches each year, I book an appointment at the testing station a month in advance to avoid wasting time in queues. I make sure to bring my vehicle license and insurance documents, and I test the lights and brakes beforehand to identify any issues early. The inspection fee is reasonable, just a few hundred yuan, but missing the deadline could lead to hefty fines and unnecessary hassle. The older the car, the more crucial early maintenance becomes—it gives peace of mind on the road.
Having worked in auto repair for so many years, I've seen too many cars run into problems due to overdue inspections. After a car reaches 6 years old, it must undergo an annual inspection—this is a mandatory requirement. As vehicles age, components deteriorate quickly, with systems like brakes and emissions being particularly prone to failure. The purpose of the annual inspection is to identify potential hazards, such as checking if the lights are bright enough and whether the exhaust emissions meet standards. I advise car owners to complete the procedures on time and not wait until the last day, as inspection stations can get overcrowded. Doing a simple pre-check yourself, like testing the horn or tire pressure, can improve the chances of passing on the first try, saving both hassle and money. The cost usually ranges between 300 to 500 yuan, depending on the region.
I bought an 8-year-old used car last year and only then realized it needs annual inspection. As a young person, I find the process quite convenient - just book the testing station online and get it done the same day. The key is bringing all required documents: original vehicle license, copy of insurance policy, and don't forget the car keys. The cost is reasonable too, about 500 yuan per inspection, much cheaper than DIY fixes. For older cars, regular maintenance on tires and lights helps avoid inspection issues. Timely inspections prevent roadside fines and keep insurance valid. It's simple - just set a phone reminder and you won't forget.
