How to Prepare Your Car for a Successful Inspection, What Fails a Car Inspection in Texas, and How Guzman Automotive Can Help
Getting ready for your annual car inspection in Texas is an essential part of car ownership. However, for many drivers, the inspection can be a stressful experience, especially when you're not sure what could cause your vehicle to fail. Fortunately, by knowing what typically causes cars to fail the inspection and understanding how to properly prepare your vehicle, you can avoid the stress and ensure your car passes with flying colors.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors that lead to a failed car inspection in Texas, how to avoid common issues, and how Guzman Automotive in Taylor, TX, can help ensure your vehicle is fully prepared for inspection.
What Is the Texas Car Inspection Process?
In Texas, the annual vehicle inspection process has recently changed for non-commercial vehicles. Non-commercial vehicles are now only required to undergo the emissions portion of the state inspection, meaning you no longer have to worry about passing the safety inspection portion (which includes checks lights, tires, brakes, etc.). However, commercial vehicles will still need to pass both the safety and emissions portions of the inspection.
The emissions inspection ensures that your vehicle is not releasing harmful pollutants into the environment and meets the state’s environmental standards. If you’re driving a non-commercial vehicle, this means your focus should be primarily on ensuring your car passes the emissions test. If you’re driving a commercial vehicle, you’ll still need to ensure both the safety and emissions aspects of the vehicle are in good condition.
If your car fails any part of the inspection, you won't be able to renew your vehicle registration until it passes. To avoid this scenario, it’s important to know the common reasons cars fail inspections and what you can do to prevent these issues from cropping up.
Common Reasons Why Cars Fail Inspections in Texas
Since non-commercial vehicles in Texas are now only required to pass the emissions portion of the state inspection, the focus on potential failures has shifted. Here are the common reasons vehicles—both non-commercial and commercial—fail inspections:
For Non-Commercial Vehicles:
Emissions Failures: Non-commercial vehicles must pass the emissions portion of the inspection. The most common causes of emissions failure include:
Faulty Catalytic Converter: This vital part of the exhaust system helps reduce harmful emissions. If it’s malfunctioning, it can cause a failure.
Oxygen Sensor Issues: Faulty oxygen sensors can lead to improper fuel mixture, causing poor emissions performance.
Engine Control Problems: Problems with the engine control unit (ECU) can increase emissions and lead to failure.
Check Engine Light: If the check engine light is on, it may signal a problem that could impact emissions. Even if the car seems to be running fine, an illuminated check engine light could result in an emissions failure.
For Commercial Vehicles:
Safety Failures: Commercial vehicles must still pass both the safety and emissions portions of the inspection. Common reasons for safety-related failures include:
Brake Issues: Worn brake pads, damaged rotors, or malfunctioning brake lights can lead to a failed safety inspection.
Malfunctioning Lights: Any broken or missing lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, can cause a safety inspection failure.
Tire Wear: Worn-out tires with insufficient tread depth are a common cause of failure for commercial vehicles.
Suspension Problems: Issues with the suspension system, such as worn-out shocks or struts, can cause a failed safety inspection.
Steps to Prepare Your Car for a Successful Inspection in Texas
Now that you know what causes cars to fail inspections, here are some steps you can take to ensure your vehicle passes the inspection process with no surprises:
1) Have Your Emissions System Checked
If you live in an area where emissions testing is required, it’s important to check your vehicle’s emissions system before the inspection. A failing catalytic converter or faulty oxygen sensors can lead to an emissions test failure. Guzman Automotive can perform diagnostic tests to identify and address any emissions issues.
2) Inspect and Replace Broken Lights
Before your inspection, check all of your vehicle’s lights, including headlights, brake lights, taillights, and turn signals, to make sure they are all functioning properly. If you notice any broken bulbs or malfunctioning lights, replace them. Guzman Automotive can quickly check your lights and replace any faulty bulbs or components.
3) Check Tire Condition
Worn-out tires are a common reason for inspection failure. Inspect your tires for signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Measure the tread depth and make sure it’s above the minimum required by law. If your tires are close to the limit or damaged, it’s time for replacements. Guzman Automotive offers tire inspections and replacements to make sure your tires are up to standard.
4) Have Your Brakes Inspected
If you’ve noticed any issues with your braking system—whether it’s squeaking, grinding, or reduced braking power—schedule a brake inspection before your inspection. Guzman Automotive offers comprehensive brake services, from replacing worn pads to inspecting your entire braking system to ensure it’s in top condition.
5) Replace Windshield Wipers
Worn-out or cracked windshield wipers are a quick fix that could save you from an inspection failure. If your wipers leave streaks or aren’t working properly, it’s time to replace them. Guzman Automotive can help you choose the right wiper blades for your vehicle and make sure they’re installed correctly.
6) Fix the Check Engine Light
If the check engine light is on, your vehicle will not pass the inspection. There are many reasons why this light might be on, from a small sensor issue to a more serious engine problem. Bring your car to Guzman Automotive for a diagnostic scan, and we’ll identify and resolve the issue so your car can pass the inspection.
7) Secure Loose Parts
Make sure that all of your car’s parts are secure and intact. Loose or missing components like side mirrors, bumpers, or even trim pieces can result in a failed inspection. Before your inspection, take a quick walk around your car and check for any parts that might need to be repaired or replaced.
8) Check Your Suspension System
If your vehicle is making unusual noises or if you’ve noticed excessive bouncing or rough rides, it could be an issue with the suspension. Having your suspension system inspected at Guzman Automotive can prevent potential failures and ensure that your vehicle is handling well for the inspection.
How Guzman Automotive Can Help
At Guzman Automotive, we understand that preparing for a Texas car inspection can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer full pre-inspection services to help you prepare your vehicle. Whether your car needs minor repairs, light replacements, or a comprehensive inspection of the braking and emissions systems, our team is ready to assist.
Our certified technicians are experienced with the Texas state inspection requirements. They can perform a thorough vehicle check to ensure that your car is in top condition. We take the time to explain any issues we find and work with you to resolve them before your inspection.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a car inspection in Texas doesn’t need to be stressful. With the help of Guzman Automotive, you can ensure your vehicle is fully prepared by taking proactive steps to address common issues, like faulty lights or worn-out tires. Contact us or bring your car by Guzman Automotive in Taylor, TX, for a comprehensive pre-inspection check, and let us help you keep your car in top shape for another year on the road.