How often should vehicles over 6 years old be inspected?
3 Answers
For non-commercial small and mini passenger vehicles over 6 years old, the inspection cycle is once every two years. Non-commercial small and mini passenger vehicles with 7-9 seats are included in the exemption range. According to Article 15 of the newly revised "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China," which will be implemented in November 2020. In other words, commercial passenger vehicles or those exceeding the specified size or age standards are not covered by this policy change. For 7-9 seat non-commercial small and mini passenger vehicles that meet the conditions, they can participate in annual inspections according to the new policy. Vehicles within 6 years can enjoy the exemption policy and apply for inspection labels as required; in the 7th year, according to the new policy, the 8th year can directly undergo on-site testing without applying for an inspection label. Other vehicles are as follows: Commercial passenger vehicles must be inspected once a year within 5 years; those over 5 years old must be inspected every 6 months. Trucks and large or medium-sized non-commercial passenger vehicles must be inspected once a year within 10 years; those over 10 years old must be inspected every 6 months. Motorcycles must be inspected once every two years within 4 years; those over 4 years old must be inspected once a year. Tractors and other motor vehicles must be inspected once a year. Commercial motor vehicles that pass the safety technical inspection within the specified inspection period will not need to repeat the safety technical inspection. Vehicle inspection: Within the two months before the initial registration month, totaling three months, all traffic violations must be resolved. Then, bring the vehicle registration certificate, compulsory traffic insurance policy, and ID card to the local inspection station for vehicle inspection. Minivans are not covered by the policy adjustment. According to the policy, minivans are not included in the adjustment, so they can still be inspected annually as before. For vehicles similar to minivans, owners can check the vehicle type. Specifically, vehicles with a flat or short-nose body structure, single-layer floor, engine center (referring to the overall layout of the engine between the front and rear axles), width-to-height ratio ≤ 0.9, and seating capacity ≤ 9 are considered passenger vehicles with seats as trucks. Exemption conditions: According to the policy, 7-9 seat non-commercial small and mini passenger vehicles will be included in the exemption range, but they still require exemption. Vehicles under the following circumstances will not benefit from the new policy adjustments. Minivans; Vehicles with illegal modifications that have been legally penalized; Vehicles involved in accidents causing casualties; Vehicles not registered for over 4 years since delivery.
My car has been running for almost ten years. Just after the sixth year, the annual inspection changed from once every two years to once a year, and honestly, I quite agree with it. I remember that year when I went to the inspection station and found severe rust on the chassis, which was repaired in time to avoid major repair costs. Now, I go for the annual inspection on time every year. Besides checking the brakes, lights, and emissions, I can also have the tire wear checked. I suggest car owners not to delay the inspection date, as queuing during peak periods is a waste of time; keeping the car clean and doing a self-check in advance makes it easier to pass. Vehicles age quickly, and parts loosen more often, so an annual inspection makes driving safer, especially when picking up and dropping off kids at school—no mistakes can be allowed. The rules are set this way, and saving small amounts might lead to big troubles.
As someone who drives all year round, I think it's reasonable to have an annual inspection after six years, as it helps prevent potential risks. From my experience, each annual check includes testing whether the electrical circuits and lights are functioning, and if the brakes are responsive. Last year, I discovered and replaced a burnt-out bulb in time. With increased frequency, it's easier to spot minor issues and avoid accidents. During routine maintenance, I've also developed the habit of checking tire pressure and fluid levels, which complements the annual inspection for better results. Safety is no small matter, especially when driving at night—imagine how dangerous it would be if the lights weren't working. Sticking to regular inspections protects both yourself and others.
