Will the Fault Light Automatically Turn Off After Vehicle Inspection?
3 Answers
After completing the annual inspection and starting the car, it is normal to see the fault light illuminated. However, if the fault light remains on for an extended period after the inspection, it is advisable to have it checked at a 4S shop. Below are some related details: 1. Vehicle Annual Inspection: This refers to a mandatory inspection for every vehicle that has obtained an official license plate and registration certificate. It is equivalent to an annual physical examination for the vehicle in accordance with the "Technical Conditions for Motor Vehicle Operation Safety," aimed at promptly identifying and eliminating potential safety hazards, encouraging better vehicle maintenance, and reducing the occurrence of traffic accidents. 2. Engine Number Verification: Before the inspection, staff will conduct a preliminary check, primarily to verify that the engine number matches the one on the registration certificate. They will also briefly inspect the vehicle's appearance and condition before filling out the exhaust emission test form. During the test, an inspector will drive the vehicle onto the inspection line. New vehicles usually pass easily, and once a qualified exhaust emission test form is obtained, you can proceed to the window to pay and receive the exhaust emission compliance label.
I have encountered situations where the warning light comes on after an inspection. This is usually because diagnostic equipment was connected to scan the system during the inspection, which may detect temporary errors such as electrical fluctuations or abnormal emission readings. However, the light does not turn off automatically; it requires manual intervention to clear the fault codes. Modern car ECUs store this information, and if not reset, the light remains on, warning of potential issues. This could lead to more significant faults, such as reduced engine efficiency or increased fuel consumption. It is recommended to start the car and drive for a while after the inspection to see if the light goes off. If it doesn't, use an OBD tool to read the codes or seek professional repair services immediately to avoid vehicle damage. Regular maintenance checks can help reduce such risks.
After the vehicle inspection, I noticed the warning light came on while driving home, which gave me a bit of a scare. After researching, I found out that the inspection equipment connected to the OBD port for testing can trigger temporary alerts, such as unstable battery voltage or sensor false alarms. However, these lights won't disappear on their own and require manual intervention or professional help. I had a friend at a car shop reset the codes with a scanner, and it turned out to be a false alarm with no serious issues. If it were a hardware failure, like a faulty oxygen sensor, repairs would be necessary to turn off the light. So, after an inspection, it's wise to monitor the vehicle for a day or two and avoid long trips—safety first. Remember, a warning light indicates potential system issues that must be taken seriously; don't cut corners to save money or effort.
