Overlooked Reasons Your Vehicle Could Fail Inspection

In many states, it's a legal requirement to have a vehicle inspected. Some people are under the impression that as long as their vehicle is running, it should easily be able to pass an inspection. This isn't exactly the case. With a failed inspection, you could be forced to park your vehicle or face fines. There are a number of factors that can lead to a failed inspection. Make sure you know what these factors are to avoid this type of scenario.

Low Fluid Levels

It's important that fluid, such as engine oil, power steering fluid, transmission fluid and brake fluid, be at appropriate levels. If they aren't, your vehicle could fail inspection. The reason this is so important is that low fluid levels can cause issues with the safety and maneuverability of a vehicle.

Take brake fluid, for example. If the brake fluid is low, this can reduce the stopping power of your brakes, leading to an increased risk for an accident. The exact percentage level that is required will vary based on your state and the type of fluid being checked. Making sure you have sufficient fluid levels is how you avoid this.

Worn Tires

Driving on tires that are severely worn or damaged is sometimes an accident waiting to happen. Tires in this kind of condition have limited traction, which can make safe handling of your vehicle difficult, especially in wet conditions. Worn tires also increase your risk of a blowout.

If your tires are worn or don't have enough tread based on the state guidelines, you will not pass inspection. Additionally, even having your tires under-inflated can cause you to fail, as under inflation can also make it harder to stop.

Battery Concerns

A battery is sometimes referred to as the heart of a vehicle. You might think that any vehicle that is driven to an inspection station obviously doesn't have a bad battery, but this isn't always the case. A problem with the terminals, clamps or cables that connect to the battery can cause things to turn from good to bad fairly quickly and without obvious warning.

If during the inspection any of these components have signs of heavy corrosion or are frayed, you could fail inspection because these types of problems can prevent the battery from functioning correctly, leaving a vehicle immobile. You either need to replace these components or clean them.

In the event your vehicle fails inspection, the auto technician performing the vehicle inspection will be able to offer you information to help resolve the issue.