The Ultimate Guide to New York State Vehicle Inspection

TLC
02/10/2021
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become an expert about vehicle inspections in New York

Driving on the open road with your windows rolled down and the sunroof open is an exhilarating experience. However, this is only when the air is relatively clear and free of dangerous exhaust gases and such from other vehicles (and yours).

Also, being safe when driving without the risk of accidents is another great experience. In New York State, this is thanks to the New York State Vehicle Safety/Emissions Inspection Program.

What are New York State inspections?

This is an inspection carried out on New York vehicles to confirm they are in good working conditions. It enables them to drive legally on public roads. This inspection takes place once every 12 months.

At the end of a successful inspection, the owner receives a sticker that shows they’ve been cleared to be on the open road.

Also, only a DMV licensed state inspection station can carry out an inspection and issue a sticker. Your go-to auto repair shop might not be licensed to do this.

Although a prior check by any auto repair shop to put your car in the right condition will increase your chances of passing the final, official inspection.

NYS Inspection Requirements

New York State Inspection Checklist

While most items to be checked on the vehicle can be done without any special equipment, they do require the eyes of an expert who is fully aware of what the law states regarding the correct standard.

Also, some items will require special equipment such as code readers in case of issues regarding the vehicle’s computer. This is another reason why an authorized license station is key.

NYS Inspection Fail List

1. Brakes

For the brakes to be thoroughly inspected, the inspector would have to remove at least one front wheel. The power brake unit, brake pads, lining, and rotors must be operating correctly without failure. Also, brake hoses and the master cylinder will be checked for leaks. The brake is tested to ensure a straight stop is achieved without much wheel pull.

2. Seatbelts

These are checked for proper operation and adequate anchorage. Model years matter here as some years require at least one seat belt to be in use outside of the two front belt seat (Model years 1967 and 1968).

3. Lights

The following lights must be functional for your vehicle to be given the green-light here

Headlamps
Tail lamps
Stop lamps
Directional signals
Backup lights
Hazard warnings.

As for side marker lamps, parking lamps, and any additional flashing turning lumps on the side of the vehicle, you can take these under advisory and fix them if they’re faulty. However, they do not affect your inspection.

4. Windshield and auto glass

These are inspected for cracks or any other damage. For the front windshield, in particular, the area cleared by the windshield wiper must be free of cracks. Also, windshield wipers and blades are checked for presence and operation.

5. Mirrors

The vehicle’s mirrors are checked for proper mounting. Cracks and discoloration are also inspected.

6. Steering and suspension components

The steering, linkages, and power steering functions are all inspected. Of particular interest is that the steering does not have excessive play. The front end suspension chassis frame and wheel fasteners are inspected for functionality.

7. Tires

All tires except the spare tire are thoroughly inspected. Tire depth, tire condition, and pressure must be up to standard.

8. Horn

The horn must sound properly.

9. Tanks and tubes

Whether fuel or oil, there must be no leaks from any part of the vehicle.

Emission Inspection for Cars and Light Trucks

This is often done after the safety items are inspected. In line with the 1990 Federal Clean Air Act, this is done to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles. If a vehicle fails an emissions inspection, it will not be registered or have the inspection license renewed as the case may be.

What happens after the inspection?

If your vehicle passes the New York State vehicle inspection, it becomes eligible for an inspection sticker or certificate that indicates all components are in good working condition and the vehicle is fit to drive on the open road.

What will cause you to fail an inspection?

If your vehicle’s safety items are not up to standard or if it fails an emission inspection, you’ll likely fail the New York vehicle inspection.

Despair not, you can simply repair the issue(s) and go for a reinspection. Once you pass, you receive your sticker and you’re free for the next 12 months.

New York vehicle inspection during a pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic affected many things in the world. The New York annual inspections were not spared. All vehicles that had their inspections due after March last year were allowed by the New York State Government to put off the inspection due to the pandemic. This was to encourage people to stay at home.

The DMV did encourage New Yorkers with expired inspections to go for a renewal. Because these shops were considered essential, they were opened during the pandemic. However, most of them saw a pretty significant drop in their business for a while.

An official press release by the New York State DMV in October of last year stated that expired vehicle inspections must be renewed by November 3rd in addition to vehicle registration and non-driver identification cards.

NYS Inspection FAQs

1. How much are New York State vehicle inspections?

For further information on how much it costs to get your vehicle inspected please visit our NYS Inspection Cost Guide

2. What happens if your vehicle does not have a valid inspection?

You cannot renew the registration. Also, you can receive a parking ticket or a fine.

3. What service stations can do NYS inspections?

Only authorized service stations can carry out this inspection for New Yorkers. All of these stations must display an official sign displayed. You can check here on the DMV website for a list of automotive facilities regulated by the DMV including inspection stations around you.

4. Are car inspections still extended?

The extension expired on November 3^rd, 2020. Police officers can now give tickets to drivers who drive with expired vehicle inspection stickers.

5. How Long Does A NYS Car Inspection Take?

A full NYS car inspection can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to complete. If there are no major issues the inspection will usually take much less time.