How often should a minivan be inspected?
3 Answers
A minivan should be inspected once a year within the first 5 years of use, and every 6 months after exceeding 5 years. For trucks and large or medium-sized non-operational passenger vehicles, the inspection is required once a year within the first 10 years, and every 6 months after exceeding 10 years. As for ordinary motorcycles, they should be inspected every 2 years within the first 4 years, and once a year after exceeding 4 years. Vehicle annual inspection is also known as motor vehicle inspection. Depending on the nature of the motor vehicle's use, the inspection items and scope may vary. Motor vehicle inspections include three categories: motor vehicle safety technical inspection, motor vehicle emission inspection, and comprehensive vehicle performance inspection.
I've been driving a van for almost ten years, so I'm quite familiar with the annual inspection process. For new vehicles, the first six years require an inspection every two years, which is hassle-free and cost-effective. After six years, it becomes an annual inspection, checking emissions, lights, and safety devices. For vans over ten years old, the inspection is required every six months, which can be annoying, but it's necessary because older vehicles are more prone to issues due to wear and tear. My neighbor was fined 200 yuan last year for missing the inspection, so I recommend setting a phone calendar reminder. You can get the inspection done at the vehicle management office—just remember to bring your vehicle license and insurance policy, and don’t let it expire. Safety comes first! If your van is used for long-distance trips, regular maintenance like oil changes and brake checks will make the inspection go smoother. In short, the inspection cycle varies greatly depending on the vehicle's age, so stay on top of it—unlike me when I first started, being all confused.
I just bought a used van for deliveries and made a fool of myself during the first annual inspection. A friend told me that for new vehicles, inspections are required every two years for the first six years; after six years, it's annual; and for vehicles over ten years old, inspections are needed every six months. These changes are based on the vehicle's age—newer cars with stable conditions require fewer inspections, while older cars with more safety hazards need more frequent checks. I remember my last inspection where they checked the lights, brakes, and emissions, and it was done in half a day, costing a few hundred bucks. I recommend booking in advance to save time and avoid last-minute queues. Annual inspections are no joke—if you miss one, not only is your insurance invalid, but you'll also face fines and points. I’ve made it a habit now to check my van’s condition every six months and clean the air filter regularly. Vans are practical but need frequent inspections to stay safe.
