What does biannual inspection mean?

[Randall]

For vehicles that have been in use for over 15 years, an annual inspection is required twice a year. More information about vehicle annual inspections is as follows: 1. Passenger transport vehicles: Inspected once a year within the first 5 years; inspected every 6 months after exceeding 5 years. 2. Trucks and large or medium-sized non-passenger transport vehicles: Inspected once a year within the first 10 years; inspected every 6 months after exceeding 10 years. 3. Motorcycles: Inspected once every 2 years within the first 4 years; inspected once a year after exceeding 4 years. 5. Tractors and other motor vehicles: Inspected once a year.

[EmilioLynn]

I recently helped a friend with this issue. The so-called 'twice-a-year inspection' simply means older vehicles need to undergo two annual inspections. According to traffic regulations, vehicles aged 15 years or older must comply. One inspection in the first half of the year and another in the second half, mainly checking key items like emissions, brakes, and lighting. Last time I accompanied him for the inspection, his 2003 Passat failed three times due to excessive emissions. The policy's original intent is to ensure basic safety for aged vehicles, but many owners find it troublesome. Nowadays, each inspection costs around 300 yuan, which is indeed a burden for owners of older cars. If you frequently drive an older vehicle, I recommend paying extra attention to maintaining the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors in daily use, as this can reduce the likelihood of reinspection.

[Jerry]

Remember our family's Jinbei minivan? It was required to undergo biannual inspections by the tenth year. This regulation specifically applies to commercial vehicles with 9+ seats or non-commercial vehicles over 10 years old. The inspection station technician told me they focus on engine condition and chassis wear since minivans often get overloaded when hauling goods. Spending half a day queuing was routine, with lighting failures being the most common issue - replacing a bulb meant rejoining the queue. The new policy now allows annual inspections for vehicles over 10 years old, but mine fell right in the transition period. For minivan owners, I'd recommend pre-checking tire pressure and brake pads - these are particularly prone to issues.

[DeCameron]

Last year, my old Fit reached 15 years and was notified to undergo two inspections annually. The key is to remember the inspection schedule: starting from the 15th year, the first inspection must be done before January 1st each year, and the second before July 1st. The experienced technician at the inspection station mentioned that older cars often fail in three areas: insufficient handbrake strength, inadequate headlight brightness, and oil leaks from the chassis. Last month, during my inspection, they found that the engine mount bushings were worn out, and I had to replace them to pass. Now, the regulations have changed—vehicles over 15 years old only require one annual inspection. However, older cars still need frequent maintenance since parts age quickly. It’s advisable to schedule the inspection a month in advance to avoid the end-of-month rush.