Expert Contributor
SAFETY INSPECTION
by Lou Matteo
Concerns
Edgemont Automotive
A recent automotive industry seminar included a topic about Pennsylvania’s Safety Inspection program. There are many reasons for a Safety Inspection rejection other than the most common brake and tire wear issues. Inspection rejections are such a great topic of concern for Pennsylvania auto repair shops and vehicle owners that it’s time to shed light on some concerns you may have at inspection time.
Photos courtesy of Lou Matteo
Custom accessories are challenging: Lift kits, custom wheel and tire packages, lights, etc., all have the capability of changing the safety and handling characteristics designed by the manufacturers. Before you spend a lot of money installing such accessories, consult a certified PA Safety Inspection facility for potential rejections. These and many more rules are enforced to ensure the safety of our vehicles and loved ones. All inspection stations are audited, and technicians are recertified to ensure professionalism. Most technicians have their customers’ safety and best interests in mind, but If you think you’ve been unfairly rejected, ask for clarity on the failing component. If you feel the answer you receive is unsatisfactory, Pennsylvania has a referee system to resolve disputes.
Examples of rejected tires
Tires are always thoroughly inspected, not only for tread depth but condition; e.g., dry rot, wear patterns, road hazard damage, etc. Here are three common reasons why a tire would be rejected upon state inspection. (There are many more reasons.)
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1. The tire has less than 2/32" tread left on any two adjacent treads. 2. The tire is worn so that the tread wear indicators contact the road in any two adjacent grooves. 3. The tire shows other conditions or markings reasonably believed to render it unsafe for highway use.
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Examples of rust concerns
Rust and rot are more common in older vehicles, but sooner or later, can become a concern for newer vehicles here in “the salt belt.” Rusty fuel and brake lines are tricky: Those components can only be rejected if they’re leaking at inspection time. A vehicle may be rejected if those components are thought not to be durable enough to make it a year without failing. The technician’s discretion is used in such cases. Rotted frame and uni-body components must be in solid condition, and floors must be able to hold passengers and cargo with no holes for fumes to enter the passenger compartment. These inspection items should not be a surprise; they’re checked annually, and your automotive professional should be giving warnings in the early stages so that a repair strategy can be planned.
• PA Safety Inspection & Emission Testing • Tires • Brakes • Engine Diagnostics • Scheduled Maintenance • Heating & A/C • Electrical systems • Suspension • Body Control Systems
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Don’t get caught out in the cold. Let us check your car or truck for safe winter driving.
Lou Matteo, Edgemont Automotive
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610-353- 9868 • www.EdgemontAutomotive.com
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