When is a car inspection required?

Car inspection is a crucial aspect of owning a car in India and the general regional standard. It assures that the car is in good condition and meets the legal requirements through regular inspection. There is a particular moment when car inspection is critically important: when a person is buying a used car. Given this, it is always advisable to take the used car for a test by a reputable mechanic before finally buying it.

They will look for problems with the engine, transaxle, electronics, tyres, brake systems, and many others. This car inspection before purchasing assists in avoiding embarrassment. It also provides one with bargaining power in case problems arise when bargaining the price.

Three instances when you can get your car inspected

Car inspection can be done anytime, but it is prudent to set a specific schedule so that your car is surely inspected in those instances. Here are the 3 instances when you can get your car inspected.

1. At the time of renewing car insurance

It is also conventional to get a car inspection, especially when you are renewing your car insurance. When you renew your policy, insurer in India might demand inspection certificates within the last six months.

The inspection involves examining the general body of the car and ensuring aspects such as the engine and chassis number, among others. This assures the car is still fit for road use as per legal requirements and discourages insurance fraud cases. Thus, it will be wise to inspect your car every six months so you don't get caught up in some hitches when you renew your car’s insurance.

2. At the time of emissions testing

For example, to reduce emissions, some Indian cities are mandatory for all petrol and diesel vehicles over a certain age to undergo an annual emission test. This inspection by an authorised emission testing centre ensures that the car engine is not emitting pollutants beyond the permitted standards.

However, if you fail an emissions test, several repairs may need to be made before you can register the car again. This is just another great example of a mandatory car inspection sneaking up on you if you pay little attention to inspection schedules.

3. At the time of preventive maintenance

Apart from these compulsory situations, it is also wise to have regular car inspections for regular maintenance check-ups. After every 5000 – 10000 kilometres, it is wise to take your car to the mechanic for services that involve checking items such as engine compression, brake fluid level, or even the tread of the tyres, as they can easily detect any signs of wear that are developing at an early stage and will need repair or replacement.

This helps avoid situations where small problems might compound and lead to hefty repair costs in the future. This is true because spending your hard-earned money on these extra voluntary car inspection packages is what you need to maintain your car.

Conclusion

Car inspections are important in situations where one wants to buy a used car; the same applies when renewing an insurance policy. Mandatory emissions tests also need to be performed periodically in some cities for vehicle inspections. Further, it is recommended that voluntary preventive checks at 5,000 – 10,000 KMs assist in preventing recurrent problems through early detection enhanced by repairs.