The Virginia state inspection in Fairfax, VA is a legally mandated procedure that every vehicle owner is required. Before you schedule your state inspection in Fairfax Station, VA, save yourself time and headache by doing a pre-inspection checklist so you know the status of your vehicle and can make necessary repairs and replacements. This way you you control the timing and costs and can pass your inspection without surprises.
The basic Virginia state inspection in Fairfax Station involves testing:
- The driver’s seat; airbags, seat belts, and doors
- Brakes and parking brake
- Headlights and exterior lights, turn signals and the license plate light
- All four tires, wheels and rims
- The horn, rear-view and side-view mirrors
- The windshield, wipers, window glass, and front and rear defrosters
- The hood latch, engine belts, and fluids
- The steering and suspension systems and floor pan
- The fuel and exhaust systems and air pollution controls
Anyone with little experience can test these items themselves. Depending on the age and condition of your vehicle, it may also be worthwhile to have an ASE-certified, professional mechanic do a quick review before your VA State inspection in Fairfax, VA.
It is smart to know your vehicle and it’s specific systems, functions and particular quirks, especially if you drive an older vehicle. When you know your vehicle you will sense when it is completely safe to operate on the roadways or if something needs attention.
The vehicle inspection cost is set by law – $12 for motorcycles and $16 for passenger vehicles, SUVs, pickup trucks, trailers, and motorhomes. During off-peak hours, your vehicle state inspection in Fairfax Station, VA will take about an hour. Approved inspection stations recommend you avoid the busy beginning and end of the month inspection times, as well as daily bottlenecks during commuting times.
In the event your inspector finds problems with your vehicle and cannot issue a new inspection sticker, you have 15 days to correct problems before re-inspection is mandated by law. This is why it is a good reason to take care of repairs in advance. By being proactive and completing a pre-inspection review, you can complete repairs and replacements in advance, avoiding costly surprises without added time pressure.
As an authorized VA State Inspection Station and a full-service ASE automotive center, the local automotive specialists at Wiygul Automotive Clinic have the knowledge, tools, and experience to help you before, during and after your Virginia State Inspection in Fairfax Station, VA. By reviewing your vehicle checklist before your Virginia state inspection in Fairfax Station, VA, you can prevent unexpected, costly automotive surprises.