Important Questions to Ask During a Maryland State Vehicle Inspection
A Maryland State Vehicle Inspection is due when a car is newly registered in the state of Maryland – either via moving into the state or by purchasing the vehicle and registering it under a new owner.
The vehicle safety inspection checks the vehicle to ensure it is safe and legally compliant to be on the road. A certified auto shop will check items like dashboard lights, safety belts, windshield wipers, working lamps, and more.
If you fail your vehicle safety inspection, you have the option to have the inspector make the required repairs at the auto shop at their earliest availability. However, you may also complete the repairs yourself or take the vehicle elsewhere and then have it re-inspected.
While a Maryland State Safety Inspection can feel stressful, a certified auto shop will make it simple and easy. Learn what questions to ask during your safety inspection so you are prepared and can streamline the inspection process.
Questions About the Inspection Process
You want to ask questions about the inspection process so you are prepared for your scheduled appointment. This will help you know what to expect, the timeframe for the inspection, and what documentation is needed.
Do not assume all auto shops are the same – some may have the ability to accept walk-ins while others may only do appointments.
- What does the Maryland State Inspection cover?
- How long will the inspection take?
- Do I need to schedule an appointment, or do you accept walk-ins?
- What documents or items should I bring with me?
- Will I be able to wait for my car, or should I arrange other transportation?
Questions About Car Repairs
Not all cars pass the inspection the first time. You can have the repairs completed at the same auto shop, complete the repairs yourself, or take your vehicle to a secondary location. Owners are given 30 days / less than 1,000 miles to complete the repairs.
Always ask your inspection station how they handle repairs so you are financially prepared, can select how you want to handle repairs, and know when your car will be road legal and safely registered.
- If my vehicle fails, will you provide a detailed written report of what needs to be fixed?
- Do you provide repair estimates for any issues found?
- Will you ask my approval before completing any repairs needed?
- Can I take my car elsewhere for repairs if it fails, or must repairs be done here?
- Do you offer re-inspections, and is there an additional fee for that?
- Are there common reasons cars fail inspection that I can check beforehand?
- What assurance of mechanical reliability do you offer?
Questions About Inspection Cost & Payment
The cost for a Maryland State Safety Inspection may vary across auto shops. The fee is based on their labor costs and may or may not include upcharges based on equipment needed (lifts or other machinery). Always ask about the cost of a Maryland vehicle inspection, re-inspection fees, and repair estimates.
- What is the total cost of the inspection?
- Is there a re-inspection fee if my car fails the inspection?
- Will I approve all repairs and estimates before they are completed?
- Are there any additional fees beyond the inspection cost?
- Do you accept all payment methods (credit, debit, etc.)?
Questions About General Inspection Advice
Your certified auto shop is your best resource for your car’s overall maintenance and safety. Ask them questions about maintaining your vehicle after the inspection, how to prepare for the inspection, and what repairs your car may need in the future.
- Do you recommend any pre-inspection checks I can do to improve my chances of passing?
- Are there any differences in inspection requirements for older vs. newer vehicles?
- Do you also provide emissions testing, or is that separate?
- Do you recommend any maintenance in the upcoming year?
Schedule a Maryland Safety Inspection Today at Lisbon Auto Center
Registering a vehicle in Maryland requires a state safety inspection. With the right auto shop, this can be easy, simple, and fast. As you call auto shops, ask them a few of these questions to make sure the price is right, the timeline fits your deadline, and you have everything you need the day of the appointment.
Lisbon Auto Repair Center is available for Maryland vehicle safety inspections in Lisbon, MD. Call today to make an appointment.
