How to inspect a new car in its sixth year?
2 Answers
New cars must undergo an on-site annual inspection in their sixth year. Below are the relevant details about vehicle annual inspections: 1. The six-year exemption from inspection refers to non-commercial passenger cars and other small and mini passenger vehicles (excluding vans and vehicles with 7 or more seats), which are exempt from on-site inspection within six years. 2. However, owners are required to periodically apply for the annual inspection sticker. In the second and fourth years after purchasing a new car, the owner needs to bring the vehicle's registration certificate and a valid compulsory traffic insurance policy to the vehicle management office to apply for the inspection sticker. Alternatively, they can apply for the annual inspection sticker online and choose to have it delivered by courier. 3. Before the sixth-year inspection expires, the owner must take the vehicle to an inspection station for an on-site inspection. Upon passing the inspection, the annual inspection sticker can be obtained. If the vehicle fails to obtain the inspection pass sticker within three consecutive inspection cycles after the inspection validity period expires, it will be subject to mandatory scrapping.
I just went through the sixth-year vehicle inspection, and the process was actually quite straightforward. For new cars, the first six years are exempt from on-site testing, requiring only an online application for the inspection sticker every two years. However, after the sixth year, an on-site inspection becomes mandatory, covering checks on the braking system, headlight brightness, and whether the exhaust emissions meet standards. I recommend clearing all traffic violations a few days in advance, as unresolved violations can affect the inspection outcome. Choose a certified inspection station, prepare your vehicle registration and insurance documents, and expect fees to range between 200 to 300 yuan. Before the inspection, ensure your car has no obvious issues, such as worn tires or non-functioning lights—fix these minor problems beforehand. Passing the inspection on the first try saves time and hassle; failing means repairs and a retest, which wastes both time and money. In short, timely inspections are a legal requirement, helping you avoid fines and ensuring road safety. Don’t forget to maintain your vehicle’s service records without interruption.
