What is checked during the annual vehicle safety inspection?
3 Answers
Vehicle annual safety inspections primarily examine braking performance, handbrake effectiveness, chassis condition, vehicle side-slip, lighting systems, and exterior appearance. Braking performance inspection items: There should be no nose-diving or fishtailing during emergency braking. Check if brake pads are normal - generally consider replacement after 60,000 kilometers or based on audible indicators. Squeaking sounds during light braking also necessitate replacement. Additionally, replace brake pads in pairs (left and right simultaneously) to avoid uneven braking force. Chassis condition inspection items: Check for oil leaks in all four shock absorbers; inspect all wheel-supporting rods and rubber bushings for damage/deformation; examine tire wear (perform four-wheel alignment if necessary); verify wheel rim deformation; listen for abnormal noises from wheel bearings; check torque of wheel nuts; confirm proper tire pressure; inspect exhaust pipe and mounts for damage; examine engine/transmission underside for oil leaks; check for underbody scraping during driving; verify steering ball joints and suspension arm ball joints for looseness; inspect drive shafts for oil leaks.
I drive my car for an annual inspection every year, and the safety inspection checks quite a few things, mainly to ensure driving safety and avoid trouble. They focus on the braking system—checking if there’s enough brake fluid, the wear level of the brake pads, and ensuring the brakes respond quickly without slipping. Tires are inspected for tread depth (it can’t be too thin) and proper air pressure, as a blowout is no small matter. All lights must be functional, including headlights, turn signals, and taillights, with brightness meeting standards—these are crucial for night driving. The steering system must be flexible, with no loose steering wheel. The body structure shouldn’t have rust or deformation, and the chassis must not leak oil. The airbag sensors must work properly to deploy in a collision. Seatbelts must be sturdy and easy to buckle. These checks help prevent high-speed rear-end collisions or unexpected loss of control—after all, no one wants an accident on the road. Common issues like unnoticed dim lights can be problematic. Once, I was held up due to low tire pressure, so doing a self-check in advance can save trouble. Safety always comes first!
As an experienced driver, I've learned a lesson from vehicle inspections: they never check unnecessary things. The focus is on brake responsiveness, tire condition (shallow tread or cracks are dangerous), fully functional lights, stable steering, no major body damage, and properly working airbags. I remember once my headlight wasn't working, and the inspection stopped me, saying driving at night could easily hit pedestrians; another time the brake fluid was slightly low, which almost caused trouble. Inspectors use equipment to test braking distance to see if it meets standards, and check light brightness against regulations. These details ensure driver and vehicle safety, reducing accident risks. I recommend paying attention to your car's condition regularly, maintaining brake fluid and replacing bulbs periodically, so you can pass inspection in one go without wasting time.
