What Does a Car Inspection Involve?

Automobiles are among the most regulated consumer goods in the world. They must conform to safety and emission standards. As a result, most states mandate inspections for both cars on the road and cars being sold. However, what is encompassed in these inspections can vary widely. 

Emissions Inspections

Emission inspections are inspections designed to ensure that a car's emissions are within the guidelines established by the government. These guidelines are designed to protect the environment from cars that emit too many toxic greenhouse gases. In order to test these vehicles, drivers must take their car to a certified testing location. Also, many states require the driver to show proof the car has been inspected, and these certificates are only available from certified testing locations. During the inspection, a sensitive measuring device is place in the exhaust pipe. The results are sent to a computer and given to the driver. 

Used Car Inspections

People who purchase a used car need to know that the vehicle is good working order before they invest their money. Therefore, when an individual is interested in purchasing a car they should request a vehicle inspection. Many areas allow people to request these inspections before purchasing an automobile. These inspections cover a wide variety of parts of the automobile's mechanical system. While they do ensure that the car is within emission standards set by the government, they also provide the owner with a list of problems and potential problems with the car. An examination of the engine, transmission and undercarriage is performed. The purchaser is than provided with a report detailing whether the car passed each phase of the inspection. Any phase that is failed must include an explanation for the failure.