What is the weight requirement for fire extinguishers in vehicle annual inspections?
3 Answers
For family cars, a 3kg fire extinguisher is required; for light trucks below medium size, a 4kg one is needed; for medium and above-sized trucks, either an 8kg extinguisher or two 4kg extinguishers are required. Below are the relevant details: 1. Requirements: Check if the extinguisher cylinder shows signs of rust or deformation; whether the nameplate is intact and clear; if the nozzle is deformed, cracked, or damaged; whether the hose is unobstructed, deformed, or damaged; and if the pressure gauge's exterior is deformed or damaged, with the pointer in the green zone. 2. Specifications: Portable dry powder fire extinguishers are recommended. The safe usage period for vehicle inspection fire extinguishers is 12 months, after which they need to be refilled by the relevant authorities.
I remember being quite nervous during my last vehicle inspection. The inspector said the fire extinguisher must weigh at least 1kg, and smaller ones simply wouldn’t pass. I used a 1kg dry powder fire extinguisher, bought a new one for just a few dozen yuan—unopened with the pressure gauge in the green normal range—and it passed inspection on the first try. Later, during a chat, I learned that lighter ones, like 0.5kg, have weaker firefighting capabilities and might not be able to put out a fire if one occurs, while larger ones take up unnecessary space in the car. I suggest everyone prepare a brand-new 1kg fire extinguisher before the inspection—don’t skimp on safety. Keep it under the driver’s seat for easy access, not hidden in the trunk. Also, a quick reminder: the typical validity period is over two years, so make sure it hasn’t expired during inspection. If it’s leaking or expired, replace it immediately to avoid the hassle of a second trip.
The annual vehicle inspection typically requires a fire extinguisher weighing 1kg or more, which is the safety standard. Smaller capacities like 0.5kg are ineffective in fire scenarios, posing significant risks of failing to extinguish flames in critical moments; while heavier ones, though effective, are impractical due to space constraints. A 1kg dry powder type is generally recommended, ensuring it is within the validity period and the pressure gauge shows green during inspection. The rationale is that vehicles may encounter fire hazards anytime on the road, such as engine smoke or electrical short circuits, making preparedness essential. Personal tip: Purchase a standard 1kg new extinguisher and place it near the glove compartment for easy access without rolling. Routine maintenance is crucial—check the pressure gauge every two years, replacing it immediately if leaking or aged. Inspection agencies are strict on specifications, failing minor deviations, so prepare in advance to avoid wasted trips.
