How often should a passenger car be inspected?
3 Answers
A passenger car should be inspected once every 2 years within the first 6 years; once every year after exceeding 6 years; and once every 6 months after exceeding 15 years. The contents of the annual inspection include: 1. Whether the vehicle has a user manual and a certificate of conformity, and whether the factory sample marks on the vehicle body are complete; 2. Measuring the internal and external contour dimensions, wheelbase, and axle base of the motor vehicle, with specific measurement items including vehicle length, width, height, cargo compartment side height and area, wheelbase, and axle base; 3. Conducting inspections item by item according to technical inspection standards. After passing, fill out the motor vehicle initial inspection variation registration form, and record the unladen weight, load capacity, number of passengers, and number of occupants in the cab as specified by the manufacturer.
Back when I first got my new car, I didn’t give much thought to the annual inspection. Later, I learned that the inspection cycle for passenger cars is quite specific. For the first 6 years after registration, you only need to apply for the inspection mark online every 2 years—no need to visit a testing station, which is much more convenient. After 6 to 10 years of driving, you’ll need to go for an on-site inspection every 2 years to check components like lights and brakes. If the car is over 10 years old, it must be inspected annually, as aging vehicles are more prone to issues. A friend of mine had a painful experience—forgetting the inspection led to fines and even affected insurance claims. It’s best to set a phone reminder or follow notifications from the DMV app to avoid last-minute hassles. Regular inspections help identify safety hazards early and boost driving confidence.
As a long-time sedan owner, I deeply understand that vehicle inspection cycles should never be taken lightly. Generally, passenger cars are categorized in phases: within the first 6 years, you only need to apply for the inspection label online every 2 years, which is a simple process; between 6 to 10 years, a full inspection at a testing center is required every 2 years; and after 10 years, an annual inspection becomes mandatory. Why such regulations? New cars have fresh mechanical components with lower risks, while older vehicles are prone to wear and tear—missing an inspection could lead to dangers like brake failure. I always remind my family to prepare the documents and maintenance records a week in advance. The inspection itself takes just half an hour, avoiding long queues. Neglecting inspections long-term may result in penalty points, fines, or even compulsory scrapping, which directly impacts the family's driving safety.
