Vermont State Inspection
Vehicle Documentation:
Fill out vehicle work order for Vermont State Inspection
Verify registration certificate is current, accurate, and in agreement with vehicle
Verify insurance document is current, accurate, and in agreement with vehicle
Verify public VIN on vehicle dashboard and match to vehicle documentation
Safety:
Verify vehicle is equipped with seat belts (1964 & newer) and verify functionality
Body:
Check interior rearview mirror
Check exterior rearview mirror
Check windshield wipers for correct operation and condition of blades
Check bumpers and fenders
Check for protruding metal
Check for sun visors
Tires & Wheels:
Measure tires for wear
Check tires for cuts, snags, and cracks
Check tires for bumps, bulges, and knots
Check tire labeling for restricted usage
Check wheel bolts, nuts, or lugs
Check wheel for damage
Check function of TPMS system
Check for proper tire size
Check for proper inflation
Ensure tires do not protrude past fender walls
Steering & Suspension:
Check for lash or free play in steering system
Check power steering system for operation, fluid level, and leaks
Check ball joints for movement
Check ball joint assembly for seizure due to rust
If ball joint movement is detected, check tolerance with tool (use manufacturer spec's)
Check torsion bars or springs
Check tire rod ends
Check tie rods for seizure due to rust
Check condition of shock absorbers and struts
Check wheel bearings
Check axle shaft
Brakes:
Check for brake failure and ABS indicator lamp operation
Check brake system integrity
Check parking brake functionality
Check brake failure lamp
Check master cylinder lines and wheel brakes for signs of leakage
Check brake hoses for integrity, cracks, and wear
Road test brakes (stop within 25 feet at 20 mph)
Verify critical vehicle instrumentation (odometer & speedometer)
Lighting & Electrical System:
Perform a visual check of all lamp functionality
Ensure fog and driving lights illuminate with corresponding headlight beams
Check headlight aim
Check switches and functions of directional controls
Check defroster function
Check horn function
Check for exposed wiring for damage and poor connections
Check lights for cracks, leaks, or insufficient repairs
Check for unauthorized after-market lighting
Check airbag readiness light
Glass:
Check windshield glass for cracks, chips, and discoloration
Check left front window for visibility and operation of all windows
Check for incorrect sticker placement or other visual restrictions
Check glass to the left & right of the driver position for after-market tinting
Body:
* Check integrity of floor pan and trunk area
* Check frame and body mounts
Exhaust System:
* Check vehicle muffler
* Check for after-market uncertified muffler
* Check for loose joints or leaking joints
* Check for leaks caused by corrosion, seams, or patches on muffler or tailpipe
* Check tailpipe end for restrictions
* Check for exhaust system modifications allowing excessive noise
* Ensure no part of the exhaust system passes through the passenger compartment
Fuel System:
* Ensure system is securely attached
* Check for vapor or fuel leakage
* Check for proper routing of fuel lines
* Check fuel tank and/or auxiliary fuel tank, or jug stored in vehicle
Emission System:
* Check catalytic converter if so equipped
* Ensure fuel cap is present and secure
* Perform OBDII check (1996 & newer vehicles - use CAN protocol scan tool)
* Fill out OBDII form
Paperwork:
* Fill out inspection sticker, use correct numeric insert & affix to vehicle
* Fill out inspection log sheet
OBD technology benefits motorists, automotive service technicians, and our environment. It is beneficial for motorists because it monitors the vehicle's performance every time it is driven and identifies problems immediately, allowing repairs to be made before more serious problems develop. It is beneficial for technicians because it helps them to accurately diagnose problems, allowing for efficient and proper repairs. And it is beneficial for our environment and our health because it identifies problems that cause vehicle emissions to increase.
What is OBD and how does it work?
OBD technology was developed in the 1980's by vehicle manufacturers to help technicians diagnose and service the computerized engine management systems of modern vehicles. A new generation of OBD (often referred to as OBDII) is present on 1996 and newer vehicles. OBDII monitors all components that make up the engine management system. It can detect a malfunction or deterioration of these components usually well before the driver becomes aware of any problem. When a problem is detected, the OBD system turns on a warning light on the instrument panel to alert the driver of the need to have the vehicle checked by a service technician.
What does the OBD check involve?
First, the vehicle is checked to see if the Malfunction Indicator Light ("MIL", commonly called the "check engine" or "service engine soon" light) on the instrument panel illuminates when the ignition key is turned to the "on" position and then when the engine is running. Next, an electronic device known as a scan tool is connected to the vehicle, and used to communicate with the vehicle's on-board computer. The on-board computer is checked to confirm that the vehicle has completed it's self-tests, to determine if the computer has attempted to turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light, and if applicable, to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes. The results are recorded (see sample of blank form below), and the scan tool is disconnected from the vehicle. The entire OBD check typically takes less than 5 minutes.
Why is the OBD check needed?
Motor vehicles are the largest source of toxic and ozone-forming air pollutants in Vermont. While modern vehicles are getting much cleaner due to newer engine management technology and emission control components, emissions stay low only when all these systems are working properly. OBD technology helps to ensure that vehicles are operating as designed, and the OBD check ensures that the vehicle's OBD system is doing its job.What if my vehicle failed the OBD check?
If your vehicle failed, it must be repaired in order to receive a new inspection sticker. Your vehicle should be repaired by a qualified, trained automotive service technician equipped with the appropriate diagnostic and repair tools. Depending on your vehicle's age and mileage, repairs may be covered by the vehicle manufacturer's warranty. Refer to your vehicle owner's manual for specific information on warranty coverage. The reason(s) your vehicle failed should be identified on the front of the form (above). Following are the possible reasons for failing the OBD check:1. The vehicle's OBD system connector has been removed or is otherwise not working properly. The OBD check cannot be completed if the connector is missing or is not working properly.
2. The Malfunction Indicator Light does not illuminate at all when the ignition key is turned to the "on" position. When the vehicle's OBD system detects a problem it turns on the warning light to alert the driver to a problem. However, if the light can not illuminate because the bulb has burned out or is otherwise not working, the driver would not be alerted to the problem.
3. And 4) The malfunction indicator light on the instrument panel is on (and/or commanded on by the vehicle's on-board computer) while the engine is running. This indicates that the OBD system has identified a problem which must be repaired. In this case, one or more diagnostic trouble codes will also be reported by the vehicle's OBD system. These codes should be written on the front of the form (above), and will help your technician diagnose and repair your vehicle.
