How Often Should You Get Your Car Inspected: A Complete Guide
If you have a Ford, BMW, or Volkswagen in Peoria, Arizona, you might wonder how often you should get your car inspected. Every vehicle must pass a safety inspection at least once every two years to be legally driven; often, this is a yearly check. There are other times when you may need to get your car inspected, such as before selling it or after a major repair.
In general, the state of Arizona requires that cars get inspected every two years, or when they are sold. As part of an inspection, emissions testing is also required; this means your car must pass a smog check to ensure it is not releasing harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.
If you're driving an older car, you may need to get it inspected more frequently. Depending on your location, cars over 10 years old may be subject to stricter guidelines and must be inspected more frequently. Why? Ultimately, this is to ensure that the car is safe to drive and still meets emissions standards.
If you plan on selling your car, you must have it inspected first. The buyer is not allowed to drive an unregistered and uninspected vehicle. This means that all cars must have a valid inspection certificate before they can be driven on the road.
What is a Vehicle Inspection?
In the United States, a vehicle inspection is an examination of the car’s safety systems, such as brakes and lights. It's also an emissions test to check that the car is not releasing too much pollution into the air. During an inspection, technicians look for possible defects or malfunctions in the car’s systems. If they find any issues, they must be fixed before the inspection is considered valid.
In terms of the emissions test, technicians take a sample of how much pollution the car is releasing. The sample must not exceed certain standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). If it does, the car must be repaired until it meets these standards.
Generally, once every two years is enough in Arizona. However, some states require inspections more frequently. It is important to check your state's laws and regulations regarding the frequency of car inspections.
Choosing a Reliable Mechanic
Now you know how often to get a car inspected, you may wonder how you pick the right mechanic. The most important factor to consider when choosing a mechanic is their experience. Look for someone with years of experience in inspecting cars. It is also wise to check their reviews and ratings online because this will give you an idea of how satisfied other customers were with their services. Additionally, you can ask friends and family for referrals.
After making a list of potential mechanics, be sure to compare their prices to ensure you are getting the best value for your money. You should also ask a few further questions such as whether they will perform a test drive or additional tests and if they offer a warranty on the services provided.
Once you have selected a mechanic, it’s time to schedule an appointment. In most cases, it is a good idea to call ahead to make sure they can book you for the appropriate time and day. It is also important to ensure they are experienced, certified, and have the proper tools.
Once your car inspection is complete, the mechanic will provide you with a report of any necessary auto repairs or maintenance that must be done to pass the inspection. Be sure to ask questions if anything is unclear and make sure to ask for written estimates before agreeing to any repairs.
Read More: Repairing Yourself vs Visiting a Professional - BMW Repairs
