What Does the Annual Inspection Check?
5 Answers
Here are the contents of the vehicle annual inspection: Inspection of the engine, chassis, body, and auxiliary equipment: Check whether the engine, chassis, body, and auxiliary equipment are clean, complete, and effective, whether the paint surface is uniform and aesthetically pleasing, whether the main assemblies have been replaced, and whether they match the initial inspection records. Testing the vehicle's braking performance: Test whether the vehicle's braking performance, steering control, lighting, exhaust, and other safety performance meet the requirements of the "Technical Conditions for Safe Operation of Motor Vehicles." Inspection for vehicle modifications: Check whether the vehicle has been modified, altered, or transformed, whether the driving license, license plate, and all vehicle registration records match the current condition of the vehicle, whether there are any changes, and whether approval and modification procedures have been completed. License plate and driving license: Check whether the license plate, driving license, and the enlarged license plate characters printed on the vehicle are damaged, altered, or illegible, and whether they need to be replaced.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have gone through several annual inspections, each time noticing that the focus is on safety. First is the lighting section: whether the front and rear headlights are working, how quickly the turn signals and brake lights respond - if a bulb is out, it needs replacing. Then the brake test is crucial: you have to press the pedal several times to see if the stopping distance is short enough; if the brake pads are too thin, they need replacing. Tires can't be overlooked either: tread wear that's too shallow or insufficient tire pressure won't pass, otherwise there's a risk of skidding in the rain. Emissions testing is also mandatory - the gases emitted by the engine must meet standards, and if they exceed limits, the catalytic converter might need repair. There's also the exterior and structure: no serious body damage, secure seat belts, and clear mirrors. The whole process takes about half an hour, but I always check the lights and brakes myself beforehand to avoid the hassle of redoing it.
I just had my annual vehicle inspection, and it was a good experience. They first scanned the VIN to confirm the car's identity, then tested all the lights: headlight brightness, turn signals, reverse lights, etc., to ensure nighttime visibility. The brake system test was the core, requiring a sensitivity check on the roller. Tire inspection included depth measurement and pressure calibration—if below standard, they had to be inflated or replaced. Exhaust emissions were analyzed with equipment; failing would be a big issue. Other checks like steering flexibility, horn volume, and suspension firmness were also briefly done. The whole process was digital and efficient. I found that keeping the car clean before inspection helps reduce disputes.
During our annual inspection, safety is the top priority. All lights must function properly: headlights, turn signals, and brake lights are essential. The braking system is a critical component, tested for stable stopping performance. Tire tread wear should not be excessive to avoid blowouts, and tire pressure must be properly maintained. Emission tests ensure environmental compliance, keeping exhaust within limits. Additionally, the steering system should be responsive, seat belts intact, and mirrors properly adjusted. The vehicle's exterior should show no significant damage. Before the inspection, I make it a habit to check bulbs and tire pressure for a smooth and worry-free process.
The annual inspection covers all aspects: first, the brightness of the lighting system, including headlights and brake lights, is tested; then, the braking performance is evaluated by simulating an emergency stop on the testing platform. Measuring tire tread depth and air pressure is a crucial step; emissions are checked using equipment to ensure the exhaust composition meets standards. The steering free play must be reasonable; the suspension is inspected for any looseness. The VIN code is matched with documents; the condition of seat belts and airbags is also examined. I always advise car owners to service their brake fluid before the annual inspection to avoid any issues.
