How much does a car inspection cost?

Many states require you to have your car inspected before registering it. Depending on your state’s laws, you may need to pay for an inspection either when purchasing a car (new or used) or once every few years.

As drivers should take into consideration expenses like registration fees and auto insurance payments when purchasing a vehicle, many people want to know the average car inspection cost.

With this guide, we’ll help you determine how much a car inspection will cost you and give you an overview of inspection requirements in every state.

After you determine how much a car inspection will cost you, enter your ZIP code in the free tool above to compare auto insurance rates and find coverage that’s right for you.

How much do car inspections cost?

Car inspections typically cost between $150 and $250. Most mechanics and dealerships will perform a car inspection for you, so be sure to compare options and look for the best combination of affordability and thoroughness before making your decision.

A full vehicle inspection covers the following:

• Braking: Tests how reliably the vehicle brakes and otherwise slows down
• Exhaust: Tests how cleanly and effectively exhaust fumes are removed from the engine
• Steering/suspension: Tests how smooth and responsive the vehicle is when turning
• Tires/alignment: Tests tires to ensure that they’re properly aligned and not damaged in any way
• General inspection: Tests various systems not covered in the four categories above (windshield wipers, wiring, etc.)

Do you need to have your car inspected before purchasing auto insurance?

Depending on your state and insurance company, you may need to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic or dealership before you can purchase an auto insurance policy.

More often than not, insurance companies will require an inspection before they allow you to purchase one of their more expensive coverage options or when trying to insure a used vehicle. You can also expect your insurance company to request an inspection if you file a claim after an accident.

Even if you aren’t required to have your car inspected, doing so may benefit you in the long run because it will provide a record of your vehicle’s condition. This way, if you get into an accident, you’ll have an easy time proving that any damage to your car wasn’t there before the collision. (And, hopefully, you have full coverage as well.)

What states require car inspections?

Some states require frequent car inspections. Others require them in specific circumstances. And a few require no inspections whatsoever.

The Miley Legal Group has compiled a list of car inspection requirements in each state. Take a look at an overview of these inspection laws in the table below.

How to find out if your car needs an inspection?

If you’re unsure about your state’s car inspection requirements, contact your DMV, or equivalent, and provide them with information on your vehicle’s make and model. They should be able to help you determine what sort of inspection your vehicle requires (if any).

Most mechanics or dealerships will be able to perform a safety inspection or emissions test, but you may be required by your state to go to an approved location. You may also want to go to a mechanic before a required safety or emissions test to ensure that your car passes and you don’t have to pay any additional testing fees.

What happens if your car fails an inspection?

Exactly how a failed car inspection is handled varies between states. Most often, you’ll be required to repair your vehicle within a set period (usually somewhere between two weeks and a month) or you’ll face a fine.

In most states, after your car has failed an inspection, you won’t be able to sell it until it’s fixed. You may also be unable to renew your auto insurance policy until you take your car to a mechanic or dealership.

If your car fails an inspection, take it to a mechanic or dealership as soon as possible, so you can have it tested again once it’s been fixed.

What to Remember About Car Inspections

• While car inspections will almost always cost you $150 or more, you have a great deal of freedom when it comes to selecting a mechanic or dealership, so spend some time comparing options
• Car inspection requirements depend on your state’s laws. Check with your state’s DMV or equivalent if you’re uncertain about inspection requirements
• If your car fails an inspection, don’t panic. Take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible and have it retested to avoid a fine or other penalties

Now that we’ve reviewed how much car inspections cost and how they relate to insurance rates, try our free online quote tool to compare companies and find the most affordable auto insurance coverage in your area.