Instead of waiting until you discover a malfunction in your vehicle, regular safety inspections help you avoid problems. Staying up-to-date with your car’s condition will also save you time and money on auto repairs. To inform you, here is a guide on the latest information about the Hawaii vehicle inspection process.

A Guide to Hawaii Safety Inspections

1. COVID-19 Changes

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, your safety inspection sticker will remain valid until August 31, 2020, regardless of its expiration date. This will allow you extra time to pass the safety inspection and renew your registration. The police department is aware of this extension and will not issue traffic tickets for expired stickers.

As of now, all safety inspection stations plan to reopen on May 15, 2020, giving you plenty of time to complete your test and any auto repairs before August. 

2. You Must Have Your Car Inspected Once a Year

Hawaii requires most privately owned vehicles to undergo a safety inspection once a year. You’ll also be required to have your vehicle inspected if it is sold, transferred, or registered in a different name.

If your car fails the inspection, you won’t be able to renew your registration until you’ve completed the required auto repairs and passed the safety inspection.

While a safety inspection is only required once a year, it’s beneficial to have your vehicle inspected every six months to ensure it’s in optimal driving condition.

3. Come Prepared

Bring your vehicle registration and insurance ID card with you to the safety inspection. The inspector must review your documents before starting on your car.

4. Inspections Are Comprehensive

Your safety check inspector will look over all parts of the car. They’ll check the headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights for any cracks or fogged lenses. They’ll inspect the tires for proper tread depth as well as any cracks, shifted belts, or bubbles.

You won’t pass the inspection if your windshield has any cracks or scratches on the driver’s side that could impair your vision. The inspector will turn your windshield wipers on to see if they work properly and have a sufficient amount of washer fluid.

The inspector will look for leaks in your shock absorbers, a loose steering wheel, or metal-to-metal contact in your brakes. Seatbelts will be tested to make sure they all latch and auto-lock.

For a comprehensive and affordable safety inspection check, visit AutoTech in Kealakekua, HI. For over 14 years, their ASE®-certified technicians have performed expert oil changes, brake services, wheel alignments, tuneups, and other auto repair services. Call (808) 322-8881 to make an appointment today, or visit the website to learn more about their services.