Vermont State Inspection

 
Vermont State Vehicle Inspections (VSI): What You Need to Know

If you own a vehicle in the Green Mountain State, you probably know that annual state inspections are required.  Every year, all vehicles registered in Vermont need to go through a state inspection. This isn't just a quick look under the hood-it's a thorough check to ensure your car meets safety and emissions standards set by the Vermont DMV. And if you've just registered a vehicle in Vermont that doesn't have a valid Vermont State Inspection sticker, make sure to get it inspected within 15 days from when you purchased it.

Where Do You Go for an Inspection?

You can't just go anywhere for this. Inspections need to be done at state-approved inspection stations. These stations are equipped with the necessary tools and software to ensure your vehicle is up to par and report the results to the state.  This software then allows the inspection station to print off a sticker indicating your vehicle passed a state inspection.  Our team at Central Vermont Auto Mart is approved to complete Vermont State Safety Inspections on your car, light duty truck or trailers.  Give us a call or schedule an appointment on-line we will be happy to help you.

What Gets Inspected?

Here's a rundown of some of the items our technicians will look at:

  • Brakes: They'll check your brake pads, rotors, and overall braking system to make sure you can stop safely.
  • Lights: This includes headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.
  • Steering and Suspension: Steering and suspension components need to be in good shape to ensure proper handling and comfort.
  • Tires: Inspectors will look at tire tread and condition to ensure they're not worn out.
  • Exhaust System: They'll make sure there are no leaks and that your exhaust is functioning properly.
  • Windshield and Wipers: Your windshield needs to be free of defects in the critical area of site, and your wipers need to be in good working order.
  • Mirrors: Both your rearview and side mirrors need to be intact and functional.
  • Horn: A working horn.
  • In addition to safety checks, your vehicle's emissions system will be tested. This includes an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) check to ensure your vehicle isn't releasing excessive pollutants. The OBD system helps identify any issues with the engine and emissions control systems.
Costs Involved

At Central Vermont we base our Vermont State Inspection on flat fee, which is posted in our service department or from time to time run specials to reduce the fee.  Please check here for current service specials. Additionally, there's a $6.00 fee for the inspection sticker, which goes to the State of Vermont.

In Summary

We strive to provide you with information about the condition of your vehicle as it relates to the prescribed standards, without requiring you to go above and beyond what is required to pass the inspection.  If we see items that meet the standard but will need to be addressed in the future, we will point them out, so you are aware of future maintenance needs.  Examples would be tires that have over 2/32" of tread, but are getting close, or brake pads that meet the requirements but appear to be reaching the end of their serviceable life. 

So, the next time your inspection date rolls around, remember it's not just about getting a sticker-it's about making sure your vehicle's critical safety systems and emission controls meet the standards.  We are here to help make the process easy for you, happy driving!