State Inspection

Pennsylvania requires vehicle safety inspections to ensure that vehicles are maintained for safe operation. State Safety Inspections can prevent vehicle failure on the highways and crashes that may result in injuries or death. Inspections can be performed up to months prior to date posted on your sticker.

Getting your vehicle inspected is something everyone in Pennsylvania must do to keep their car in good standing with the State. The inspection is a critical part of keeping everyone on the road safe. Not only that, but it’s a great way for auto owners to regularly get their vehicles checked for any necessary work that needs to be done. These routine checkups can result in expanding the lifespan of your vehicle by years and reduce the overall cost of car ownership by correcting small problems before they compound and become major hazards. For state inspections in Doylestown, PA you can trust our family-owned company. 

Before Taking your Vehicle for State Inspection

The main reason people dread getting their vehicle inspected is because of unexpected problems that may be discovered, resulting in a hefty repair bill before it can pass inspection. However, with proper care and maintenance throughout the year, the chances of unexpected problems will be decreased. Making sure your gas cap fits properly, driving on tires with adequate tread, getting regular oil changes, checking for fluid leaks, and more can be the difference between a small repair bill now, and a large one down the road.

What We Will Check During Your Vehicle Inspection

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania requires inspection stations to examine several different things, while checking the VIN of your vehicle against the vehicle’s registration and other records. On the most basic level, every inspection station must check a variety of simple functions including the windshield wipers, electrical system and warning lights, windows and mirrors, and seat belt equipment. Once these simple checks are completed, it’s time to get into the more complex inspection:

  1. Suspension: Shock absorbers can’t be leaking, mounting bolts must be in good shape, and ball joints can’t move faster than the manufacturer’s specifications.
  2. Brakes: Your vehicle’s hydraulic hose will be checked, along with the wheel cylinders, calipers, and the size of the drum and disk thickness.
  3. Body and Chassis: Your vehicle’s chassis must be in pristine condition with no cracks or extensive damage. The fenders, hood, and all latches must open and close securely.
  4. Exhaust and Fuel: Your vehicle must return to idle when you step off the accelerator, the gas cap must open and close properly, and the exhaust system should suppress noise and should not allow any gas to be released into the cabin.

Fontaine and Sons is your one-stop-shop for any of your vehicle’s inspection needs, located right in Plumsteadville, PA.  Our mechanics will guide you through your vehicle’s entire inspection and explain every step of the process. Make your appointment to get your vehicle inspected!