Is a New Car Still Exempt from Inspection After an Accident?
4 Answers
If it is a minor accident, the car can continue to be exempt from inspection. However, if the accident is severe, it will no longer qualify for exemption. The exemption terms specify that vehicles involved in major accidents cannot enjoy the inspection exemption. For significant accidents, the vehicle must undergo inspection on a testing platform to determine its status. The extent of accidents that disqualify a car from exemption and the corresponding handling procedures are as follows: Extent of accidents that disqualify from exemption: To deepen reforms in deregulation, management, and services, the Ministry of Public Security introduced 12 optimization measures, including conditions related to inspection exemptions. The regulations state that vehicles involved in accidents causing casualties will not be eligible for the exemption policy. In other words, if an accident results in casualties, the vehicle will generally lose its exemption status. Handling procedures for non-exempt cases: If a private car is involved in an accident that results in the loss of its exemption qualification, it must undergo biennial inspections within a 10-year period.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, let me talk about this issue. Whether a new car can still enjoy inspection exemption after an accident mainly depends on the severity of the accident. For minor scratches, like just some paint damage, it generally won’t affect the inspection exemption. New cars still have a warranty period, but you should get them repaired at a professional shop to avoid future troubles. However, if it’s a major accident, such as a deformed bumper or damaged chassis, then you’ll need to go for an inspection, as the safety risks are too high otherwise. I remember my neighbor’s car hit a tree, and the inspection station said it had to pass a re-inspection to restore the exemption status because the car’s structure was affected. So, after an accident, it’s best to self-check or consult a mechanic first, rather than waiting until the exemption period ends to discover problems. Also, don’t forget to communicate with your insurance company and record the accident details—it helps with future claims. Safety comes first; it’s better to spend a little extra time on inspections than to risk problems on the road.
I feel like we young people buy cars just for peace of mind. Whether a new car is exempt from inspection after an accident? Honestly, it depends. If it's just minor scratches without damaging the vital parts, it should still enjoy the inspection-free period, but I suggest getting it fixed early and not delaying. If it's a serious collision, like airbags deploying, then the vehicle inspection might be unavoidable, plus you'll have to spend more on inspection fees. After my new car got rear-ended, the repair guy said all the original parts had to be replaced, and I might even need to go to the DMV for a supplementary inspection. I think it's a hassle, so it's better to drive carefully and avoid accidents. Also, during maintenance, ask the 4S shop more—they can help assess the situation, saving us from guessing blindly. Speaking of costs, if the inspection exemption is voided after an accident and you exceed the annual inspection deadline, you might even face fines, so don't slack off—get it inspected when needed. Usually, use car insurance apps to check local regulations more often; policies vary by region, so don't fully trust online information.
Whether a new car can be exempt from inspection after an accident mainly depends on the extent of damage. Minor accidents like door dents generally don't affect the exemption, but it's recommended to self-check the suspension system after repairs. Severe collisions may damage the frame or electrical systems, in which case the exemption becomes invalid and certification from an inspection center is required. The repair process is crucial—original parts must be properly reinstalled to avoid future issues. Additionally, the vehicle's condition affects insurance; post-accident inspection records can facilitate claims. Safety-wise, accident vehicles carry higher risks, making regular inspections essential.
