If you’re like many Silver Spring, MD drivers, you probably don’t think about your car’s safety inspection until your check engine light pops on and it becomes clear that you can no longer ignore your vehicle’s warning signs. By then, it may be too late to take care of them before they become more serious problems, especially if you can’t figure out the underlying problem.
Do You Need an Inspection?
Some people think that inspections are only necessary if there is a problem with their car. However, regular inspections can help catch safety problems before they become major issues. For example, an inspection will help warn you if your brake pads are wearing down or if your tires need to be replaced. In Maryland, inspections are required every two years, and they should be done at least 30 days before the date of expiration on your sticker.
When to Get an Inspection
Any vehicle that requires Maryland tags, regardless of whether it is new, used, or imported from another state, must pass a thorough inspection of all of its parts. If you recently moved to Maryland and wish to register your automobile, you must get a Maryland car inspection. If you’ve recently moved from another state, you have 60 days to register your car. You must also pass the inspection before you can do so.
What Happens During an Inspection
A mechanic will inspect the following during an inspection:
- Engine and transmission oil
- Brake system fluid
- Coolant level and condition
- Tire pressure, tread depth, and wear patterns
- Exhaust system (from both the front and rear of the vehicle)
- Steering linkage
- Power steering hoses
- Master cylinder, brakes, parking brakes, and handbrakes
- Hood, trunk latch, tailgate latch, doors (open & closed), front bumper, rear bumper
- Windshield wipers and washers
- Door locks, windows, visors
- Floor mats
- Headlights, taillights, turn signals
How Long Is the Maryland Vehicle Inspection Valid?
An inspection is good for 90 days after registering, which is a reasonable amount of time. You will need a new inspection in order to register if you don’t have an inspection certificate that was issued 90 days prior to the registration process.
What to Expect After an Inspection
A qualified mechanic will look at your vehicle and tell you what needs to be fixed. This can range from minor fixes to major repairs. If your vehicle passes the inspection, it’s one less thing on your to-do list. You will also be given an estimate of how much the repairs will cost and how long they should take. If you choose to repair your vehicle, ensure the price is worth it before giving them the go-ahead.
When your car requires an inspection, a general tune-up, or auto repair, you can trust us at DARCARS Lexus of Silver Spring to help you keep your vehicle in excellent condition. Schedule a service with our repair shop in Silver Spring, MD, today, or click here to discover more related blogs on maintaining your Lexus.
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