A basic Virginia state inspection consists of testing the following items:
- The driver’s seat; airbags, seat belts, and doors
- Brakes and parking brake
- Headlights and exterior lights, including turn signal lights and the identification light on your license plate
- All four tires, wheels, and rims
- The horn, rear and side-view mirrors
- The windshield, window glass, windshield wipers, and front and rear defroster
- The hood latch, engine belts, and fluids
- The steering and suspension systems and floor pan
- The fuel and exhaust systems, and air pollution controls
Obviously some items need to be checked by a certified, professional mechanic, but many you can do yourself with very little experience. Besides, it is smart to be familiar with your vehicle and it’s particular systems and functions, especially if you drive an older vehicle that has developed its own personal quirks.
The current cost of a vehicle inspection is $12 for motorcycles and $16 for all other passenger vehicles, SUVs, pick-up trucks, trailers, and motor homes. In terms of time, we recommend you come in mid-day and mid-month, and plan to spend about an hour for your inspection. You can avoid the high volume beginning and end of the month inspection cycle, and those busy times before and after standard office hours.
In the event your vehicle inspector finds some issue that prevents issuance of a new inspection sticker, you will have 15 days to remedy the problem before a re-inspection is mandated by law. This is another good reason to tackle any repairs or replacements ahead of time.
By taking a proactive position and completing a pre-inspection assessment, you can avoid surprises that may crop up during your inspection, and take the time you need to complete and repairs properly.
Contact your local automotive specialists at Wiygul Automotive Clinic if you have any questions or need to set up a service appointment. Before your Virginia state inspection in Lorton, VA, we can help make sure you know what to expect when you’re inspecting.
