A shot of one of Vicom’s inspection centres. Photo: Google Maps
Every car owner, at some point, has had to undergo a car inspection.That involves checking the car’s emissions as well as its general roadworthiness.
However, for first-time car owners, car inspections sound like a daunting process.
Fortunately, the whole thing is easier than it sounds.
Car inspections, generally, take about 15 minutes.
The bonus is that you don’t even have to drive your car through the inspection lane – the inspectors at Vicom will help you do just that!
Here are some simple steps to take note of when you get the notice from LTA to send your car in for inspection.
1. Three centres offer testing services: JIC, STA Inspection and Vicom.
When you get your inspection letter, go to any of the three listed in your letter at their stated opening hours.
If you forget to bring your letter, don’t worry. The centres will have a record of your car requiring inspection.
2. You don’t need to drive your car through the inspection lane.
The inspectors there will do it for you.
3. Despite the difference in centres, the inspection process is broadly the same.
Car inspection centres check the following: undercarriage, above carriage, exhaust emissions, sound levels emitted (from the car), headlights, wheel alignment and brakes.
It’s a highly automated process and the results for the individual tests will be displayed.
You are presented the inspection certificate if you clear the inspection.
If not, you have to bring your car back to be re-inspected.
4. Inspection takes just 15 minutes at most
Don’t fret that inspections take forever – most are over in a matter of minutes.
Each time you go for an inspection, it costs around $64, with diesel vehicles costing a bit more due to extended emissions testing.
So don’t worry the next time you get the letter to get your car tested – it’s a painless process!
Dollars and sense of the new Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES)
