Does ABS Light Fail Inspection
Do you worry that the ABS light will cause inspection failure? I had the same problem and I researched to find a solution.
Usually, ABS light will not fail the test. But it depends on your location where is the test done as the specific rules and regulations regarding vehicle inspections can vary depending on your location. However, in any state, it will fail if the dashboard brake light is on other than the ABS light.
In this article, I provide things I did and that you must do before going to the inspection center to surely pass the inspection.
Components Inspected in Car Inspection
Here are the main tests and their components in the inspection.
| TEST | COMPONENTS |
| Road test | Service brakes |
| Inside the vehicle | Windshield Wiper Controls (on/off switch) Horn Turn Signals Indicator Lamps Mirror Seat Belts Brake Pedal Reserve Parking Brake Steering High Beam Indicator Lamp (1948 & up) |
| Outside the vehicle | Tires Wipers Mud flaps Wheels Lightning equipment Glass coating Gas cap |
| Under the vehicle | Service brake Parking brake Exhaust system |
| Under the hood | Exhaust emission system Master cylinder Power steering Exhaust manifold |
How to Pass Inspection Easily
When it comes to owning a car in the US, most states require some form of safety and emissions inspection to ensure that all vehicles on the road are safe and roadworthy while not creating harmful emissions gases. If you want to pass the inspection, you need to prepare beforehand. Here are some things I inspected before taking my vehicle to the inspection center.
All Lights
I inspected all my vehicle’s lights to ensure they were in good condition, including the directionals, parking lamps, brake lights, and reverse lights. The reverse bulb was gone, so I replaced it before heading to the inspection center.
Tires
I checked the condition of my tires for dry rot, cracking, heavy gouges, or cuts to the sidewall. I ensured that the actual depth of the tires was within the acceptable limit. A tread depth gauge or a quarter helped me determine if my tires would pass inspection.
Glasses
I inspected my windshield and mirror glass for any cracks or bull’s-eyes. I made sure that all three of my mirrors were free and clear of cracks or any discoloration that could make them difficult to see out of.
Wipers
I ensured that my wipers worked properly and that the vehicle had washer fluid. It was always a good idea to have a full tank of washer fluid and check that my pump and sprayers worked.
Horn
I ensured that my horn worked correctly.
Suspension Components
I checked my suspension components, including ball joints, tie rods, and wheel bearings. To check the lower ball joint, I jacked up the vehicle from the lower control arm to relieve the load from the joint. I placed a pry bar underneath the tire, put my hand on top, and pried it up.
I made sure I didn’t feel any clicking or play from the lower ball joint. I repeated these steps on the opposite side of the vehicle.
Exhaust
I inspected my exhaust to ensure there were no leaks allowing emissions to get around the catalytic converter or, even worse, into the passenger compartment of my vehicle.
How to Reset ABS Light
If you are sure there is no problem associated with your ABS and it works fine, follow these ssteps to reset the ABS light.
Step 1: Detach the Battery
The battery in your car needs to be disconnected first. The negative terminal, which is denoted by a minus sign (-), should then be loosened and removed. You can easily so this by using a wrench. Wait 30 minutes for the computer system to completely discharge.
Step 2: Reconnect the Battery
Reattach the negative cable to the battery terminal and tighten it down using the wrench after waiting for 30 minutes. Start your car once the cable is firmly in place.
Step 3: Ride for 1 Minute
To give the ABS time to recalibrate, drive your car for a short distance. The ABS light should automatically turn off after a short period of driving.
This video will show you another easy method.
Why is ABS light illuminated?
Usually, an illuminated ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light on your vehicle dashboard indicates a problem with the ABS. It means that the system has detected an issue with one or more of its components, such as the sensors, the control module, or the hydraulic pump. Sometimes the ABS light comes on without any fault on the ABS.
It is important to get the ABS inspected and repaired as soon as possible, as a faulty ABS can affect your vehicle’s ability to brake safely and may compromise your safety on the road.
This is the Procedure of vehicle inspection
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS(FAQs):
What is the importance of car inspection?
You can determine whether the parts of your car are in good condition or not by performing car inspections. By preventing unforeseen damage to your car, you can avoid having to pay for expensive repairs or replacements.
How much does it cost to do the inspection?
Some states demand both a safety inspection and an emissions test. You can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a full car inspection, which can take several hours. Extensive pre-purchase inspections that include a thorough engine and road test may be the most expensive.
Can I pass the inspection with the check engine light on?
An emissions-related sensor failure or other issue is reported by the onboard diagnostic system of the vehicle. The “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” light might be illuminated if there is a problem. The vehicle won’t pass the inspection if the light is on when you arrive for the inspection.
Why do vehicles fail inspection?
A failed vehicle inspection can be the result of any defect or problem with the tested features. Typical reasons for a vehicle inspection failure include:
- Having the check engine light on
- Headlight and taillight damage
- Defective gas cap
- The catalytic converter is not working
- Obstructed air filter
- Problematic speedometer
Conclusion
In some places, an illuminated ABS light would cause your vehicle to fail a safety inspection. However, it’s best to check with your local authorities or inspection station for more information.
By following these steps before heading to the inspection center, you can ensure that your vehicle passes the inspection and is safe and roadworthy. Additionally, it can save you time and money when you go to get an inspection.
