PA State Auto Inspection Flashcards

Auto Inspection Guidelines

• Stickers must be securely stored in a locked location.
• Unused stickers should be retained until the Quality Assurance Officer (QAO) visits, with a possibility of a 75% refund.
• The first violation for faulty inspection leads to a Category 1 violation with a 2-month suspension.
• When verifying a vehicle's registration, ensure the VIN and license plate match the registration card; one number can differ or two can be transposed with Penn DOT proof.
• Approved safety glass is required for all windows, free from obstructions and defects. Non-transparent materials cannot obscure the driver's view beyond a height of 3.5 inches.

Windshield and Visibility Requirements

• The acute area of the windshield (8.5 x 5.5 inches) must have no imperfections.
• Wipers must meet manufacturer speed specifications and must not smear after five cycles, with washer systems required for newer models.
• Doors and trunk lids must be original equipment and should close securely.

Inspection Specifics

• Mirrors must be unbroken, hold adjustment, and two outside mirrors are required for vehicles with louvers.
• Fender flares cannot exceed 3 inches in width.
• The vehicle floor must support weight without holes or damage, and bumpers should meet specified height requirements based on vehicle type.

Signal and Light Regulations

• Turn signals must flash between 60-120 times per minute, and back up lights should turn off when not in reverse.
• Broken lenses that allow white light to pass will not pass inspection.

Brake and Steering System Checks

• Shocks should be checked for missing parts, broken mounts, and severe leakage.
• The minimum diameter for the steering wheel is 13 inches, and the horn should be audible from at least 200 feet away.
• The brake pedal cannot engage more than 80% of total travel and should not fade upon stopping.

Brake Specifications

• Minimum brake lining thickness: Bonded brakes 2/32", Riveted brakes 1/32".
• Brake hoses must be secure, leak-free, and not show signs of dry rot.

Instrumentation and Interior Inspection

• Inspect steering components for free play and proper adjustment, including seats and mirrors.
• Horns, turn signals, and indicator lamps must function properly.

Emissions and Vehicle Classification

• Studded snow tires are permitted from November 1 to April 15.
• Fleet inspection stations must have at least 15 vehicles to qualify for specific licensing.
• Light trucks, medium trucks, and heavy trucks are classified by their registered gross weight.

Certificates and Documentation

• The inspection station must display its certificate of appointment, inspection fee chart, and list of inspection mechanics.
• A mechanic must carry their driver's license and mechanic card during inspections.

Inspection Procedures and Regulations

• Mechanics must be recertified every three years and keep inspection records for a minimum of two years.
• If a vehicle fails inspection, the fee remains the same as for passed vehicles, and replacement stickers must be issued within five days of the windshield replacement.

General Knowledge

• Maximum allowed slope in the inspection area is 1%.
• Vehicles can be inspected regardless of state registration, but stickers are optional for out-of-state vehicles.
• A passenger vehicle must stop within 20 feet at 20 mph without leaving a 12-foot lane.

Miscellaneous Regulations

• Old parts must be retained post-repair until the vehicle is returned to the owner.
• Issuing a sticker without an inspection incurs a one-year suspension upon first violation.
• The maximum allowable difference in wheelbase between vehicle sides is 1 inch.