Car Inspection Singapore: Everything You Need to Know
If you own a car in Singapore, it’s important to understand the car inspection process. Car inspections are required by law to ensure that vehicles are safe to drive on the road. In Singapore, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is responsible for regulating car inspections.
During a car inspection, a licensed inspector will check various components of your vehicle to ensure that they meet safety standards. This includes checking your brakes, lights, tires, and other important parts of your car. If any issues are found during the inspection, you may be required to make repairs before your car can pass the inspection.
If you’re a car owner in Singapore, it’s important to stay on top of your car inspection schedule to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive. In this article, we’ll explore the car inspection process in Singapore, including key components and procedures. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about car inspections in Singapore.
Key Takeaways
- Car inspections are required by law in Singapore to ensure that vehicles are safe to drive on the road.
- During a car inspection, licensed inspectors check various components of your vehicle to ensure they meet safety standards.
- It’s important to stay on top of your car inspection schedule to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive.
Understanding Car Inspection in Singapore
If you own a vehicle in Singapore, it is important to understand the car inspection process. Regular vehicle inspections are mandatory in Singapore and are designed to ensure that all vehicles on the road are safe and roadworthy.
The Importance of Vehicle Inspection
Vehicle inspections are crucial for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your vehicle. During the inspection, a certified inspector will assess your vehicle for structural integrity, emissions, and mechanical functionality. This helps to ensure that your vehicle meets the standards set by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and is safe to drive on the road.
Inspection Frequency and Types of Vehicles
The frequency of inspection depends on the type and age of your vehicle. Private cars and taxis are required to undergo inspection every two years, while goods vehicles, tuition cars, omnibuses, all other buses, and trailers are required to undergo inspection every year. Motorcycles are required to undergo inspection every year from their third year of registration.
Inspection Centres and Authorised Entities
Inspections must be carried out at LTA-authorised inspection centres. These centres are authorised by the LTA to carry out inspections and issue inspection notices. VICOM and JIC Inspection Services are two examples of LTA-authorised inspection centres.
To book an inspection, you can make an appointment with an authorised inspection centre. You will receive an inspection notice from the LTA about three months before your inspection is due. This notice will inform you of the inspection due date and the earliest date you can book an appointment.
During the inspection, the inspector will use an inspection checklist to assess your vehicle. If your vehicle passes the inspection, you will receive an inspection certificate. If your vehicle fails the inspection, you will need to make the necessary repairs and have your vehicle re-inspected.
In summary, car inspection is a mandatory process in Singapore that helps to ensure the safety and roadworthiness of all vehicles on the road. By understanding the inspection process and requirements, you can ensure that your vehicle remains safe and compliant with LTA regulations.
Key Inspection Components and Procedures
When you bring your vehicle in for inspection, there are several key components and procedures that will be checked to ensure your car is safe and roadworthy. Here are the three main areas that will be inspected:
Vehicle Safety and Roadworthiness
During the car inspection process, the safety and roadworthiness of your vehicle will be thoroughly checked. This includes the braking system, steering system, suspension system, tyres, wheel bearings, rusting, bodywork, seat belts, horn, windscreen, and road wheels. These checks are important to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive on the road.
Emission Standards and Environmental Compliance
To comply with environmental regulations, emission standards are checked during the car inspection process. The diesel smoke test, hydrocarbon emission test, and high idle emission test are conducted to ensure that your vehicle’s emissions are within the acceptable range. If you have a bi-fuel CNG system, it will also be checked for compliance.
Vehicle Modifications and Compliance
Illegal modifications can be dangerous and can also result in your vehicle failing the inspection. During the inspection, any illegal modifications will be identified and you will be required to rectify them. The chassis dynamometer smoke test (CDST) will also be conducted to check for any illegal engine modifications.
The enhanced inspection regime ensures that all vehicles are inspected regularly to ensure that they comply with the rules laid out by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). The frequency of inspection depends on the type and age of your vehicle, and the costs vary depending on the type of vehicle and the inspection required.
At the car inspection centre, you can expect a comprehensive check that covers a wide array of parts. The commitment to quality and customer service is high, and you can expect friendly and efficient service from the staff. There are also promotions and off-peak car pricing available to help you save money on your inspection.
Once your vehicle has passed the inspection, you will be issued a certificate and the necessary documents to renew your road tax. With regular car inspections, you can help maintain road safety standards, reduce the risk of accidents, and contribute to creating a safer environment in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is a vehicle required to undergo inspection in Singapore?
As per the regulations in Singapore, all vehicles are required to undergo periodic inspections to ensure their roadworthiness and emission standards are met. The frequency of inspection depends on the age and type of vehicle you own. For instance, private cars that are less than three years old require inspection every two years, while those older than three years require annual inspections.
What should I bring along when I take my car for its inspection?
You must bring along your vehicle log card, identification documents, and the necessary inspection fee. It is also advisable to ensure that your vehicle is clean and in good condition before taking it for inspection.
Where can I find a vehicle inspection centre in Singapore?
There are several vehicle inspection centres in Singapore, including VICOM and STA. You can easily find the inspection centre nearest to you by visiting their websites or checking online directories.
How can I check the due date for my vehicle’s next inspection?
You can check the due date for your vehicle’s next inspection by logging into the OneMotoring website using your SingPass account. Alternatively, you can check the expiry date on your vehicle log card.
What are the fees associated with car inspections at VICOM or STA?
The fees for car inspections vary depending on the type of vehicle and the type of inspection required. You can check the fees on the respective websites of VICOM and STA.
Can I pay for my vehicle inspection online, and if so, how?
Yes, you can pay for your vehicle inspection online through the respective websites of VICOM and STA. You can pay using various payment modes, including credit or debit cards and internet banking.