What are the Requirements for a NYS Inspection?

Every vehicle registered in New York state must pass a safety and emissions inspection every 12 months, covering components like the braking system, steering and suspension, lights, and signals.

If you have recently moved to Suffolk County or have purchased a used vehicle from a private seller, you should book a car inspection near you to get a valid sticker and renew your registration.

What Will Fail an NYS Inspection?

Your vehicle could fail a state inspection if any of its primary safety or emissions components are damaged or malfunctioning.

The most common reasons to fail car inspections in Suffolk County include:

• Check Engine Light Showing: A check engine light can fail a portion of the test, and the computer should be free of fault codes. We use advanced OBDII scanners to check for errors, and also use computer diagnostics for emissions tests.
• Worn Brake Pads and Rotors: Being able to stop predictably in normal conditions or an emergency will keep you safer on the road. Worn pads and rotors will fail a NYS inspection. Brake pads should have at least 1/32 of an inch remaining. Rotors should be free of any heavy pitting or damage.
• Tire Tread and Condition: Poor tire performance makes it dangerous to drive, especially in our region, where we see wet weather and ice. Tires must have at least 2/32 of an inch of tread to pass.
• Cracked Windshields: Windshield cracks can compromise the structure of the glass, so anything exceeding 11 inches will fail an inspection. Cracks, chips, and severe discoloration in the area covered by the wipers will fail an inspection.
• Faulty Lights: Every exterior bulb on your vehicle must function to pass a state inspection. This includes everything from the headlights (both high and low beam) to the taillights, brake lights, signals, and hazards. Even the light that illuminates your license plate must be functional to pass a NYS inspection.
• Window Tint: Regulations around window tints are often overlooked, especially by enthusiasts who modify their vehicles. In New York, the windshield and front side windows (driver and passenger) should allow at least 70% of light to pass through. If you have installed aftermarket tints that are too dark, you could fail the inspection.

Dee Pat’s Awsomotive is a full-service auto repair shop in Selden, serving nearby areas of Suffolk County. We are one of the most trusted auto shops on Long Island, and can provide maintenance and repair services to ensure you pass your state inspection. We are transparent in all of our checks and will explain any points of failure while offering cost-efficient solutions to get your vehicle up to state standards.

Special Testing Requirements for Long Island Drivers

Some diesel vehicles require a smoke opacity test in addition to standard safety and emissions tests. This keeps heavy soot out of our air.

Some European models, including Audi, Mercedes, and BMW, have sensitive emissions systems. Even something as simple as a loose gas cap could trigger a leak code in the computer system, causing a testing failure. An inexperienced technician might fail a vehicle for something that could otherwise be resolved on the shop floor. Our team is familiar with all types of domestic and imported vehicles and will ensure that your car doesn’t fail due to simple issues.

Book a New York State Car Inspection at Dee Pat’s Awsomotive

Visit our licensed New York State Vehicle Testing Center for your next inspection and enjoy a detail-oriented approach that is both convenient and transparent. Book a car inspection in Suffolk County online or call us at (631) 538-4441 today.