How often should small cars undergo annual inspections?
3 Answers
Small cars should be inspected once every 2 years within the first 6 years. After exceeding 6 years, they should be inspected once annually. For vehicles over 15 years old, inspections are required every 6 months. After the implementation of the new vehicle inspection regulations, cars between 6 to 10 years old are inspected once every 2 years. At the 6th and 8th year marks, these vehicles must undergo on-site inspection line testing. For private cars over 10 years old, the original inspection cycle still applies: once annually for vehicles aged 10 to 15 years, and every 6 months for those over 15 years. Regarding annual reviews, new passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer (including 7 seats) are exempt from annual reviews for the first 6 years. After 6 years, they must be inspected once annually, and after 15 years, every 6 months. Newly purchased small family cars with 7 seats or fewer (including 7 seats) are exempt from on-site testing within the first 6 years, unless involved in a major accident, which then requires on-site testing. Although new cars do not require on-site testing, owners must visit the vehicle management office every 2 years to collect the annual review sticker and environmental monitoring compliance sticker. To obtain these, bring the vehicle registration certificate and the current valid compulsory traffic insurance policy to the designated window for free collection.
As a young person who frequently drives compact cars, I believe the frequency of vehicle inspections depends on the car's age. For the first 6 years of a new car, it's quite simple—basically no need to visit an inspection station, just apply for an inspection sticker online every two years. When the car reaches 6 to 10 years old, you'll need to visit an inspection station for a check every two years. For cars over 10 years old, it's an annual inspection. Once a car hits 15 years or older, it requires two inspections per year. Vehicle inspections are quite important—not just to avoid fines and penalty points, but also to identify issues like non-functioning headlights or unstable brakes, allowing for timely repairs to ensure safety. Personally, I perform simple maintenance every six months, such as checking tire wear or exhaust emissions, which helps me pass inspections smoothly, saving money and peace of mind. Don't wait until the deadline—schedule an appointment at the inspection station a few weeks in advance to avoid long queues and wasted time.
As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience, I always remind everyone not to overlook the annual inspection for small cars. The specific schedule depends on the vehicle's age: new cars are virtually exempt for the first six years, requiring only a biennial sticker; between six to ten years, an on-site inspection every two years; from ten to fifteen years, an annual inspection; and for vehicles over fifteen years old, a check-up every six months. The inspection mainly focuses on safety items like lights, brakes, and turn signals to ensure trouble-free driving. I believe regular maintenance is key—such as periodic oil changes and electrical system checks—which can make the inspection process smoother. Neglecting the inspection carries significant risks; fines are the least concern, but the liability in case of an accident is far greater. Once it becomes a habit, I find inspections aren’t a hassle and can even extend the car's lifespan.
