Safety systems inspections for revived salvage vehicles
Vehicle safety systems inspections begin statewide on July 8!
A vehicle safety systems inspection helps provide peace of mind when buying a salvage-titled vehicle in California. The inspection checks the vehicle’s key safety systems before it can be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and returned to the road.
Inspections and DMV registration
To register a revived salvage vehicle, it must pass a vehicle safety systems inspection at a licensed inspection station. If you are buying a revived salvage vehicle, the seller or rebuilder is responsible for having an inspection performed on the vehicle and providing you a certificate of compliance.
For more information and to learn how to register a revived salvage vehicle, visit www.dmv.ca.gov.
Getting an inspection
Vehicle safety systems inspections are performed by licensed technicians at licensed stations throughout the state. During the inspection, the technician performs a road test and inspects the condition of critical safety systems such as:
- Steering and suspension
- Tires and wheels
- Passenger compartment
- Body structure
- On-board diagnostics system
After a vehicle passes the inspection, a certificate of compliance is shared electronically with DMV, streamlining the salvage vehicle registration process for you.
Smog Check requirements
A Smog Check inspection also is required to register a 1976 and newer revived salvage vehicle. The seller or rebuilder is responsible for having the Smog Check performed on the vehicle and providing you a certificate of compliance.
Learn more about Smog Check and vehicle registration requirements.
Auto Body Inspection Program
If you recently had collision repairs made to your vehicle, take advantage of BAR’s Auto Body Inspection Program. The program offers a convenient, no-cost inspection of collision-related repairs to verify that repairs to the vehicle were completed correctly and as authorized by you. Request an inspection today