Buying a used car can be exciting yet stressful, especially when determining whether the vehicle is roadworthy. A car safety inspection in Ontario is an essential process to ensure your investment is safe and legal to drive. But what does this inspection entail? This guide will walk you through the purpose, process, and key aspects of a car safety inspection.
Why Is a Safety Inspection Required in Ontario?
Ontario mandates car safety inspections for vehicles being sold, transferred, or newly registered in the province. This ensures all vehicles meet safety standards, protecting drivers and passengers on the road.
Without a valid safety standards certificate, you won’t be able to register your newly bought vehicle or transfer ownership. However, a car safety inspection only covers the most basic security checks and doesn’t uncover deep issues like engine malfunctions.
So, it’s better to get a pre-purchase before buying a used car to reveal any hidden issues, keeping you safe from sudden mechanical or electrical issues.
Key Components Checked During Inspection
During a car safety inspection in Ontario, licensed technicians check the following components:
- Brakes & Suspension: Inspection of pads, rotors, shocks, and brake lines for wear and tear.
- Tires & Wheels: Evaluate tread depth, tire condition, and proper wheel alignment.
- Lights & Signals: Ensure all lights, indicators, and signals function correctly.
- Exhaust System: Verify there are no leaks or hazardous emissions.
- Electric & Mechanical Systems: Check the conditions of the electrical and mechanical units of the vehicle.
Inspections may vary slightly depending on the garage. For instance, the Canadian Tire safety inspection cost, along with their scope of work, can differ slightly from other accredited garages.
Also Read – A Complete Guide to Ontario’s Safety Inspection Checklist
Who Conducts the Inspection and What Happens if Your Vehicle Fails?
Only government-certified inspection stations in Ontario can conduct the used car inspection. If your car fails, the mechanic will provide a detailed list of issues that require repair to pass the inspection.
Final Thoughts
Navigating a car safety inspection in Ontario is crucial when buying a used car. It ensures the most basic vehicle safety features are intact.
But, if you’re in the market for a used vehicle, consider a car purchase inspection to avoid surprises after the deal is done. (For more information read – Don’t Buy a Used Car Without a Pre Purchase Car Inspection) To ensure your next car is road-ready, rely on experts like Greasemonkey Inspectors for professional insights and thorough checks.