Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection FAQ

Wisconsin vehicle inspection FAQ


State Vehicle Emissions Testing & Inspection

With normal automobile inspections and regular emissions checks, vehicle drivers can be made aware of any mechanical issues with their vehicles. In case your vehicle failed to pass the inspection or the emissions test, you will definitely know it needs some immediate attention and potentially some repair work. Vehicle owners must proceed with the repair ASAP because it may jeopardize the reliability of the vehicle and also lead to substantial fines and even an invalidated registration. Therefore, it is always advised to have your car checked by an experienced technician at the very least every six months to avoid all these troubles. Some frequently asked inquiries on vehicle inspection are outlined here.


What is On-Board Diagnostics or OBD?

The OBD or On-Board Diagnostics, or OBD II is a standardized computer system carried out in all cars built in and after 1996. Basically, all the automobiles made in 1996 and after will certainly have an OBD system in them, which supplies information reports on self-diagnosis of the vehicle often utilized by automobile service technicians before performing any vehicle repairs.


What Are The Most Common Causes Of a Failed Emissions Test?

An emissions test can fail for numerous reasons because of malfunctioning car parts such as an injector, oxygen sensing unit, ignition system or even an EVAP system. The most common cause is faulty injectors. Either the injectors or a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can trigger a “rich air-fuel mixture” leading to a poor vehicle emissions test.

If your vehicle has a damaged ignition system, there is a higher possibility that it might be the root cause of a boost in exhaust discharges. This, consequently, can result in a failed vehicle-emissions examination.

Any kind of problem or deficiencies in the EVAP system or evaporative exhaust control system can cause an issue in the handling of the gasoline vapor emitted from the vehicle causing air pollution.

If your vehicle hasn’t gone through routine maintenance and the “check engine” light is brightened on the control panel, your car may not clear the emissions test.


What Do They Check for in a Vehicle Inspection?

A licensed examiner conducts a car inspection at state-approved evaluation stations only. This is what they will check for:

  • Headlights: headlamps inspection to ensure correct operation, no cracked lenses or lights, lights are the proper shade, are the same, and turn signals are operable.
  • Tail lights: Turn signals, marker lights, hazard lights, license plate lights, brake lights, reverse lights are operable, and no damaged taillights
  • Wheels and Tires: to check tire conditions for any indicators of deterioration and if there is a need for replacement
  • Mirrors: Check to make sure no mirrors are cracked, broken or missing
  • Safety belt: to evaluate safety belt condition and make sure they are securely working or need a replacement
  • Brakes: a detailed brake inspection to ensure proper brake response and if there is any brake fluid leakages
  • Horn: make sure the horn is operative
  • Inspection of suspension and shock absorbers

How Long Does It Take To Get A Safety Inspection?

Depending on the state, city, and county where the car examinations are performed, the car safety inspection duration might vary. Nonetheless, for a majority of cars, this process generally takes an hour to an hour and a half.


Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection FAQ | Porsche Dealership Milwaukee

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