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Equipment & Safety Inspection Procedures and

Regulations

Welcome to the Safety Inspection

Program

Inspection Procedure for Safety Equipment

Driving the vehicle forward into the inspection area is required, by theInspection Mechanic, for a complete and proper inspection to be performed.

Safety Equipment Items

� Lights

� Brakes

� Horn

� Steering Mechanism

� Windshield Wiper

� Directional Signals

� Tires

� Tire Definitions

� Mirrors

� Exhaust Emission Controls

� Emission Control Devices

.0532 Brakes

No vehicle brakes shall be approved for an

inspection Authorization unless the items

indicated in this Rule are inspected and

found to meet the minimum requirements

established in G.S. 20-124 and this Rule.

.0532 Brakes

� G.S. 20-124 states:

� Brakes are required to control movement of and to

stop vehicles and the brakes shall be maintained in

good working order.

� The “ABS” light does not constitute a failure

Unless the ABS unit is leaking or damaged. If

there is an electrical malfunction of the ABS system

the manufacture is required to use the service brake

as a “back-up plan”.

.0532 Brakes

(1) Footbrakes shall not be

approved if:

(a) When applying brakes to

the moving vehicle,

braking force is not

distributed evenly to all

wheels originally

equipped with brakes by

the manufacturer. The Inspection Mechanic must drive the vehicle to make this test. TheInspection Mechanic may check thebrakes while driving the vehicleforward into the inspection area.

.0532 Brakes

(1)(continued ):(b) There is audible

indication (metal to metal) that the brake lining is no longer serviceable. (The wheelmust be removed and the brake lining examined when this occurs.)

� Wear Sensors & wear indicators (squealers) constitute a failure.

.0532 Brakes

(1)(continued):

(c) Pedal reserve is less

than 1/3 of the total

possible travel when

the brakes are fully

applied, or does not

meet the manufacture’s

specifications for power

brakes or air brakes.

.0532 Brakes

(1)(continued):(d) The reservoir of the

master cylinder is notfull.{ Reservoir filledaccording to manufacture specifications.}

� The inspection mechanic must remove the reservoircap to verify fluid andlevel.

.0532 Brakes

(1)(continued):(e) There is visible leakage or audible seepages in hydraulic,

vacuum or air lines and cylinders, or visible cracked, chafed, worn or weakened hoses.

� Pay close attention to vehicles with oversize tires or rims because they may rub the brake hoses.

Brake Hose

.0532 Brakes

(1)(continued):

(f) The vehicle has any

part of the brake

system removed or

disconnected.

.0532 Brakes

(1)(continued):(g) The brake pedal moves

slowly toward the floorboard (indicating fluid leakage) while pedal pressure is maintained for one minute.

� Some vehicles manufactured with ABS will do this as a normal function.

.0532 Brakes

(2) Inspection mechanics are not expected to remove wheels in order to inspect the brakes. (Except as provided in sub-item (1)(b) of this Rule.) Inspection mechanic Must raise vehicle to get beneath to check underside.

.0532 Brakes

(3) Handbrakes (auxiliary, parking or holding) shall not be approved if: (a) There is no lever reserved when the brake is fully applied.

� Some Chevrolet Trucks/SUVs will have no lever reserve from the factory.

.0532 Brakes

(3)(continued):

(b) Cables are visibly frayed or frozen, or there are missing or defective cotter pins, broken or missing retracting springs, or worn rods or couplings.

.0532 Brakes

(3)(continued):(c) The operating

mechanism, when fully applied, fails to hold the brakes in the applied position without manual effort.

� The lever will not stay set.

� Some levers are pump to set.

.0532 Brakes

(3)(continued):(d) When emergency or

handbrakes are applied they fail to hold vehicle.

� Emergency brake should be tested by setting the brake with the vehicle running and in gear. Do not depress the accelerator while performing this test.

.0532 Brakes

(3)(continued):(e) Fails to release after

being set.

.0533 Lights

� G.S. 20-129(a) state:

Every vehicle upon a highway or public vehicular

area within this State Shall be equipped with

lighted headlamps and rear lamps as required for

different classes of vehicles.

� As a “Rule of Thumb” for lights being inspected.

If the lights were installed by the manufacturer,

they are approved by the Commissioner.

� Fog lamps or auxiliary lamps are not required and

are not part of the safety inspection.

.0533 Lights

(1) Headlights shall not be

approved if:

(a) There are not at least two

headlamps (or four on

dual headlamp systems)

on all self-propelled

vehicles except that

motorcycles and motor

driven cycles need only

one.

.0533 Lights

(1)(continued):

(b) The lens produces other than white or yellow light.

� Xenon lights installed by the manufacturer and Xenon light replacement kits are allowed.

� Colored headlamp bulbs are illegal and constitute a failure.

� Remember if approved by DOT, it is approved by the Commissioner.

.0533 Lights

(1)(continued):

(c) Any lens is cracked, broken, discolored, missing, or rotated away from the proper position, or any reflector is not clean and bright.

.0533 Lights

(1)(continued):

(d) The high beam/low

beam switch does not

operate properly or the

high beam indicator

light does not burn on

vehicles.

� Low speed vehicles are

not required to have a

high beam indicator.

.0533 Lights

(1)(continued):

(e) Lights can be moved easily by hand, due to broken fender or loose support, or if mounting does not make a good ground.

.0533 Lights

(1)(continued):

(f) Foreign materials

(such as shields,

half of lens painted)

are placed on the

headlamp lens that

interferes with the

light beam of lamp.

FAIL

.0533 Lights

(1)(continued):

(g) Lights are improperly aimed using an approved light-testing device.

� Headlamps must be checked during each inspection by use of approved headlight aimer, undamaged on-board aimer or wall chart.

� When using on-board aimers, the floor slope cannot be greater than one quarter of a degree.

.0533 Lights

� Dazzling or glaring may be

caused by a high beam

bulb installed in a low

beam position.

(1)(continued):

(h) Lights project a

dazzling or glaring

light when on low

beam.

� Dazzling or glaring is

defined as rising above the

horizontal plane of the

vehicle (higher than 42”,

75” ahead of the vehicle.

.0533 Lights

(1)(continued):

(I) Tolerance allowed for headlight aiming:

(1) On board aiming devices is .8 degrees up, down, left or right.

(2) Optical or computerized aiming devices are either “go” or “no go”.

.0533 Lights

(2) Rear lights shall conform to the requirements of G.S. 20-129(d). Taillights shall not be approved if:

(a) All original equipped rear lamps or the equivalent are not in working order. • After-market and trailer lights

are acceptable as long as theyare securely attached and projectlight to the rear of the vehicle.

.0533 Lights

(2)(continued):

(b) The lens is cracked, discolored, or of a color other than red.

� The use of repair tape is not acceptable to pass the safety inspection.

.0533 Lights

(2)(continued):

(c) They do not operate properly or project white light.

� Altaza (“fisheye” or “ “Euro”) lights are acceptable as long as a colored lens is in front of the bulb.

.0533 Lights

(2)(continued):

(d) They are not securely

mounted.

� No magnetic or

“temporary” mounting

is acceptable.

.0533 Lights

(2)(continued):

(e) The lens is clear and

the bulb is colored.

(f) The lens is covered,

smoked tinted, or there

is lettering or logos

placed on the lens.

.0533 Lights

(3) Stoplights shall conform to the requirements of G.S. 20-129(g).

Stoplights shall not be approved if:

(a) The lens is cracked, discolored or of a color other than red or amber.

.0533 Lights

(3)(continued):

(b) They do not come on when pressure is applied to the footbrake.

� Proper Procedure to check stoplight operation:

a) Use a pedal lock rod; or

b) Use an approved mirror or reflecting windows of bay doors; or

c) Have someone else depress the brake pedal while the inspector/mechanic looks at the bulbs.

� The licensed Inspector Mechanic performing the safety inspection Must observe the illumination of the bulb.

.0533 Lights

(3)(continued):

(c) They are not securely mounted so as to project light to the rear.

[Includes the third brake light if the vehicle is so equipped.]

� Pick Up trucks with camper shells are not required to install an auxiliary stoplight on the back of the camper shell.

� If the camper shell is installed in such a way that the third brake light on the pickup is not visible, it is not required to be operational.

.0533 Lights

� 100% of the light Emitting

Diodes must be operating

on vehicles equipped with

spoilers or “fins” using the

LED as the 3rd brake light.

� If the vehicle is equipped

with a properly operating

external 3rd brake light, the

internal 3rd brake light, if

so equipped does not have

to be operational.

.0533 Lights

(4) Vehicles shall have

the lights as required

by G.S. 20-129(d).

License Plate light

Must be white in color

and illuminate the tag

to be read 50 feet.

� Neon license plate

lights will not be

approved.

.0533 Lights

(5) Parking lights shall conform to the

requirements of G.S. 20-134. A vehicle shall

not be approved if parking lights are not

working. Parking lights on the front must

be white or amber, on the rear red only.

.0533 Lights

(6) Back-Up Lights. Any motor vehicle may be equipped with not more than two back-up lamps either separately or in combination with other lamps, but any such back-up lamp shall not be lighted while the motor vehicle is in forward motion, nor shall the back-up light emit any color than white.

� A back-up lamp is not a requirement of the safety inspection.

.0533 Lights

� Back-Up lamps that illuminate with the stoplights constitute a failure.

� Vehicles that are factory-equipped with more than two back-up lights meet Federal regulations and supersede NCAC.

.0533 Lights

� Do not disapprove any light if there is

condensation on the lens. Disapprove if

there is standing water inside the lens.

� Reflectors are not required equipment on

passenger vehicles.

.0534 Horn

G.S. 20-125 states:

Every motor vehicle when operated on

highway or public vehicular area shall be

equipped with a horn in good working order

capable of emitting sound audible under

normal condition from a distance of not less

than 200 feet…

.0534 Horn

(1) The horn shall not be approved if:

(a) It will not emit a sound audible for a distance of at least 200 feet, or it emits an unusually loud or harsh sound. Original equipment in working order will meet these requirements.

• Musical horns are not accepted as a Replacement for the factory horn.

.0534 Horn

(1)(continued):

(b) It has frayed, broken, or missing wiring; if wiring harnesses are broken or missing; if horn button is not mounted securely and in a position which is easily accessible to the driver; or if the horn is not securely mounted to the motor vehicle.

.0534 Horn

(1)(continued):

(c) Operation of the horn interferes with the

operation of any other mechanism.

� Some older Ford Products were

manufactured with the horn incorporated

with the windshield wipers.

.0535 Steering Mechanism

G.S. 20-123.1 states:

The steering mechanism of every self-

propelled motor vehicle operated on a

highway or public vehicular area shall

be maintained in good working order,

sufficient to enable the operator to

control the vehicle’s movements and

maneuver it safely.


1. The inspection mechanic must ALWAYS raise vehicle to get beneath vehicle to check the steering mechanism.

� Pits are OK, they Must raise the tires off the floor!


(2) The steering mechanism shall not be approved if:

(a) With front wheels in straight ahead position there is more than 3 inches of free play in steering wheels up to 18 inches in diameter or more than 4 inches of free play in steering wheels over 18 inches in diameter. If the vehicle is equipped with power steering, the engine must be operating. •1 ½ “ Side to Side = 3” of free play.

.0535 Steering Mechanism(2)(continued):

(b) Either front or rear springs are noticeably sagging, broken, cut, heated, removed or missing (or portions missing).

� Vehicles with hydraulic suspension are subject to failure if springs are removed or manipulated.

� Oversize tires and rims that prevent the vehicle from turning within the proper turning radius shall constitute a failure.


(2)(continued):

(c) The front wheels or front end assembly is bent or twisted or bolts, nuts or rivets are loose or missing.

� To fail a vehicle for missing lug nuts or missing studs is the discretion of the inspection mechanic.


(2)(continued):

(d) Power steering system

shows visible leaks or the

power steering belt is

loose, worn or missing.

� Rack-N-Pinion steering

mechanisms with

“morning sickness” fails

ONLY if tightness or

slippage occurs during the

inspection.


(2)(continued):

(e) Struts and shocks are part of the steering mechanism inspection.

� Normal condensation does not constitute a failure, broken disconnected or collapsed constitutes a failure.


(2)(continued):

(f) CV Joints make a

popping or clicking

noise when vehicle is

driven into the

inspection area.

� A torn or leaking CV

Booting does not

constitute a failure.CV Boot

.0536 Windshield Wipers

G.S. 20-127 states:

A vehicle that is operated on a highway or public

vehicular area and has a windshield shall have a

windshield wiper to clear rain or other substances

from the windshield in front of the driver of the

vehicle and the windshield wiper shall be in good

working order. If a vehicle has more than one

windshield wiper to clear substances from the

windshield, all windshield wipers shall be in good

working order.

.0536 Windshield Wiper

(1) Windshield wipers

shall not be approved

if:

(a) The vehicle is not

equipped with a

windshield wiper or

wipers (both left and

right), provided the

vehicle has a

windshield.


(1)(continued):

(b) The wiper or wipers

do not operate freely.

(c) The wiper controls

are so constructed and

located that the driver

may operate them.


(d) The wiper or wipers are not adequate to clean rain, snow and other matter from the windshield.

(e) Parts of the blades or arms are missing or show evidence of damage.


(f) Windshields that are cracked and impedes wiper blade operation.

� Failure is equivalent to defective wipers.

[Wipers on rear windows are not part of the Safety Inspection.]

Defective Wiper

.0537 Direction Signals

G.S. 20-125.1 states:

Vehicles that are operated on a

highway or public vehicular area must

have a mechanical or electrical signal

device by which the operator of another

vehicle can see the intention to turn the

vehicle.


(1) All vehicles, except

motorcycles, must be

equipped with turn

signals.

(2) Vehicles required to

have signals shall be

inspected and

disapproved if:


(2)(continued)

(a) Signals are not present and of a type approved by the Commissioner. Original directional signals are considered to be of a type approved by the Commissioner. Such signals shall be those which will allow the operator approaching from a distance of 200 feet from front or rear his intention to turn the vehicle.


(2)(continued):

(b) All lights do not operate properly, or any lenses are broken, missing, or do not fit properly.

(c) Signal lens color is other than red or amber on rear and other than white or amber on the front.


(d) Lamps are not

securely mounted or

wiring and

connections are not

in good condition.

Damage


(e) Signals are not visible from front or rear due to faulty or damaged mounting or due to manner in which they are mounted.

(f) Switch is not so located as to be convenient for the driver to operate and so that its operation does not interfere with operation of other mechanisms.

� The indicators in the dashboard and the switch must operate without assistance.

[Minor cracks on lenses shall not lead to disapproval unless water is likely to enter lens and lead to bulb failure.]

.0538 Tires

G.S. 20-122.1 states:

Tires fail safety inspection if there are:

� Cuts that expose the cords;

� Cracks that expose the cords;

� Worn areas that expose the cords;

� Tire and / or tread separation, chunking (separation of tread from carcass);

� Less than 2/32 inch at 2 or more locations and / or tread wear indicators in contact with the roadway at 2 or more locations.

� Temporary tires (doughnuts) are not approved.

.0538 Tires

(1) Any vehicle shall be disapproved if:

(a) Any tire has cuts or snags that expose the cords.

� Foreign objects in tires and dry rotting that constitute failure is to the discretion of the inspection mechanic.Core Showing

.0538 Tires

(1)(continued):

(b) Any tire has a

visible bump, bulge, or

knot apparently related

to tread or sidewall

separation or partial

failure of the tire

structure including the

bead area.

Bump

.0538 Tires

(2) A tread depth gauge shall measure tire depth,

which shall be of a type calibrated in thirty-

seconds of an inch. Reading shall be taken in two

adjacent tread grooves of the tire around the

circumference of the tire. Readings for a tire with

a tread design that does not have two adjacent

grooves near the center shall be taken at the center

of the tire around the circumference of the tire.

Each tire must be lifted from the ground for an

inspection to be performed.

.0539 Tire Definitions

(1) As used in this and the preceding rule,

these terms have the following meaning:


(a) Rim is a metal

support for the tire or

tire and tube.


(1)(continued):

(b) Bead is that part of

the tire which is

shaped to fit the rim.

The bead is made of

high tensile steel wires

wrapped and

reinforced by plies.

Bead


(1)(continued):

(c) Sidewall is that

portion of the tire

between tread and

bead.

Sidewall


(1)(continued):

(d) Cord is made of textile,

steel wire strands forming

the plies or other structure

of the tires.

(e) Ply is layers of rubber

coated parallel cords

forming the tire body.

(f) Rib is the tread section

running circumferentially

around the tire.


� Secondary rubber and

sidewall damage, due to

low tire pressure, shall

constitute a failure if it is

an immediate safety

hazard.

(g) Groove is the space between the two ribs.

A tire shall not be approved if there is less than 2/32 inch of tread at 2 or more locations around the circumference of the tire in 2 adjacent major tread grooves or if the tread wear indicators are in contact with the roadway at 2 or more locations around the circumference of the tire in 2 adjacent major tread grooves.

.0540 Mirrors

G.S. 20-126 (a) states:

Inside rearview mirrors are required on

all motor vehicles operated on a public

vehicle area or highway, UNLESS the

vehicle is so constructed or loaded as to

make such mirror ineffective, therefore,

an approved type (outside rearview) of

mirror must be used.

.0540 Mirrors

(1) Mirrors shall not be approved if:

(a) Loosely mounted,

(b) Forward vision of the device (vehicle) is obstructed by the mirror assembly,

(c) They do not provide a clear view of the highway to the rear,

(d) Cracked, broken, have sharp edges or can not be cleaned such that vision is not obscured,

.0540 Mirrors

(1)(continued):

(e) They are very difficult to adjust or they will not maintain a set adjustment.

(f) Bus, truck or truck-tractor with a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more is not equipped with a rear view vision mirror on each side.

(g) Vehicles that are 1996 or newer are not equipped with an outside rear view mirror on the driver’s side.

.0540 Mirrors(1)(continued):

(h) All vehicle must have a driver’s side outside rearview mirror and an inside (center) rearview mirror, with the exception of a pick up truck. A pick up truck must have both the driver’s side and passenger’s side outside rearview mirror or the driver’s side outside rearview and the inside (center) rearview mirror.

(i) For purposes of this subsection, a truck is defined as a motor vehicle with a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more.

� If the vehicle is loaded or configured in such a way that the inside mirror is obstructed, a passenger side outside mirror would be required.

� The passenger’s outside rearview mirror is not required equipment on passenger vehicles if an inside rearview mirror is present.

.0541 Exhaust Emission Controls

Exhaust Emission Controls consist of not

only the muffler but the exhaust pipes, the

exhaust manifold and in some cases the

resonator. All parts of the system working

together cause the energy created from the

exhaust gases to dissipate and thus,

reducing the noise that otherwise would be

tremendous.


(1) An exhaust emission shall not be approved if the emission control devices placed thereon by the manufacturer are missing, disconnected, made inoperative or have been altered without approval of the Department of Environmental, Health and Natural Resources.

� This is true for ALL INSPECTIONS.

� Reminder – Vehicles 35 years old or older from the date manufacture are not required to be safety inspected.


(2) If the unleaded gas restrictor on a vehicle manufactured after 1967 has been altered or removed, a new or reconditioned catalytic converter and unleaded gas restructure must replaced before the vehicle passes inspection.

� When an unleaded fuel restrictor is tampered with, it is alleged that leaded fuel has been used. Once leaded fuel is burned through the engine and exhausted the lead particles destroy the catalyst components of the catalytic converter.

PASS


(3) An exhaust system shall not be approved if:

(a) The vehicle has no muffler.

(b) The muffler, exhaust or tail pipes have leaking joints.

(c) The exhaust or tailpipes have holes, leaking seems or leaking patches on muffler.

(d) The tailpipe end is pinched.

(e) The exhaust system is equipped with muffler cut-out or muffler by-pass.

(f) Any part of the system passes through the passenger compartment.


Many mufflers are

manufactured with a

seep hole. The

presence of this hole

does not constitute

failure.

.0542 Emission Control Devices

A civil penalty shall be assessed against

individuals who instruct or allow a person to

remove, disconnect, tamper with, or render

inoperable any emission control device

equipped by the manufacturer of any motor

vehicle as described in G.S. 20-183.3.

(1) These devices include:


(1)(continued):

(a) Catalytic Converter,

� A vehicle originally

equipped with a catalytic

converter will fail for the

tampering portion of the

inspection if a new exhaust

system is installed without

a catalytic converter.


� The tailpipe must exit the vehicle behind the

passenger compartment.


(1)(continued):

(b) Unleaded Gas Restrictor

� The reduced opening in

side the fuel filler neck.

� Lexus, Hondas, Saabs,

Toyotas and High Line

Asian Vehicles no longer

install a unleaded fuel

restrictor.


(1)(continued):

(c) Air Pump System,

� There are 2 types of Air Pumps Systems;

1) The pump type is either electrical or belt driven. A missing air or smog pump belt is a failure of the Air Pump System.

2) P.A.I.R. does not require a pump and uses the normal pulsing from the exhaust valves opening and closing.


(d) EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valve

� EGR Valves are either vacuum operated or,

electrically operated.


(e) PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) Valve

� Not all 1968 and newer vehicles will have a PCV Valve.

� A missing oil filler cap or oil dipstick fails the PCV system.

� Not all vehicles are equipped with a actual PCV Valve. Some may be equipped with PCV system that utilizes an orifice in lieu of a valve.


(f) Thermostatic Air Cleaner

� Verify that all vacuum hoses, the preheat tube, PCV System hoses are connected and that the lid is securely attached.

� Only 2 things can be missing snorkel hose and the air filter.


(g) Evaporative Emission Systems

� The Evaporative Emission System consists of the charcoal canister, the purge system, the fuel tank and cap, vacuum lines and fuel return and supply lines.

� Disconnected charcoal canister purge vacuum lines fail the Evaporative Emission System.

Purge ValveCharcoal Canister


(h) Oxygen Sensor,

� Meters the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases.

� Most manufactures install more than one oxygen sensor; the inspection mechanic is required to visually inspect all that are included.

Oxygen Sensor


� Vehicles are required to have emission

control devices as installed by the

manufacturer to be present, connected and

in a visually operative condition.

� The Emission Control System Applications

Manual, Mitchell on Demand and All Data

are examples of sources to determine what

the manufacturer installed on most vehicles.

Inspection Procedure for Motorcycles

.0544 Safety Inspection of Motorcycles

(1) Motorcycle Brakes shall fail inspection if:

(a) When applying brakes to the moving vehicle, there is insufficient force to stop the vehicle.

(b) Brakes are worn in such an manner that there is an uneven braking force.

(c) There is an audible or visual indication that the brake lining is worn to the extent it is no longer serviceable.

(d) There is less than one-third reserve in either footbrake or handbrake total possible travel when the brakes are fully applied.


(1)(continued):

(e) Reservoirs of braking cylinders are not full.

[Within manufacturers specifications.]

(f) There is a visible leakage of fluid from any brake line or brake component.

(g) Handbrake cables are frayed, broken, or frozen or linkage is defective.

(h) Motorcycles are required to be equipped with one brake. (Hand or foot brake).

� That is one front or rear brake operated by hand or foot.


� A removed front brake set (1 of 2), usually for

racing does not constitute a failure since

motorcycles are required to have only 1 front or

rear brake operated by hand or foot.

� The Inspection Mechanic is also required to

remove the master cylinder cap to verify brake

fluid levels.

� The Inspector must drive the motorcycle into the

inspection bay and the motorcycle must be lifted.


(2) Motorcycle headlamps shall fail safety inspection if:

(a) Headlamp(s) does not operate properly.

(b) There is more than two headlamps connected on a single switch.

(c) Headlamps is cracked or has holes which allows entry of water.

(d) There is standing water in the headlamp.

(e) Headlamp is out of proper aim.

(f) Motorcycles must have a minimum of one, and a maximum of 2 headlamps.


� Harleys, Hondas, and some Kawasaki’s

have what appears to be 3 or 4 headlamps.

The 2 outer lamps are not headlamps; they

are driving lamps and do not constitute a

failure.

� Motorcycles are not required to have high

beam headlamps or high beam indicators.


(3) Motorcycle rear lamps shall fail safety inspection

if:

(a) They do not operate.

(b) Light is a color other than red.

(c) Light is cracked, discolored or broken and

allows entry of water.

(d) There is standing water in the lens.

(e) Lamps is not securely mounted.

(f) Wiring is broken or frayed.


� The use of rear light integrators is allowed

(signal on while brake is applied-one side

flashes).

� Imported Yamaha’s may be equipped with

clear lenses and colored bulbs, as a “Rule of

Thumb” if the light was installed by the

manufacturer it meets the Commissioner’s

requirements.


(4) A motorcycles stop lamp shall fail safety inspection if:

(a) Lamp does not operate when brakes are applied.

(b) Light is a color other than red or amber.

(c) Light is cracked, discolored or broken and allows entry of water.

(d) There is standing water in the lens.

(e) Lamp is not securely mounted.

(f) Wiring is broken or frayed.


(5) A motorcycle license plate light shall fail

safety inspection if:

(a) Light does not operate.

(b) Light does not illuminate the license

plate.

(c) Light is a color other than white.

� Neon license plate lights will not be

approved.


(6) A motorcycle horn shall fail safety

inspection if:

(a) The horn does not operate.

(b) The sound emitted is not audible at 200

feet.

(c) The horn is not securely mounted.

(d) The button is mounted so that it cannot

be easily operated by the driver.


(7) Motorcycle tires shall fail safety inspection if:

(a) There is less than 2/32 inch of tread at two or more locations around the circumference of the tire in two adjacent major tread grooves, or if the tread wear indicators are in contact with the roadway at two or more locations around the circumference of the tire.

(b) Cords are exposed at any location on the tire.

(c) Sidewall is cut, bulging, damaged or is severely cracked due to dry rotting.


(8) Motorcycle rear view mirror shall fail safety

inspection if:

(a) The mirror is missing, broken or

cracked.

(b) The mirror is not securely mounted.

(c) The mirror will not hold a setting while

the vehicle is in operation.

� Only one mirror is required.


(9) A motorcycle exhaust shall fail safety inspection if:

(a) The motorcycle has no muffler.

(b) The muffler, exhaust, or tailpipe have holes, leaking joints, seams or patches.

(c) The tailpipe end is pinched.

(d) The exhaust system is equipped with a muffler cut-out or bypass.

(e) The muffler baffles have been removed or damaged to create a straight pipe.


(10) A motorcycle steering mechanism shall

fail safety inspection if:

(a) Front shocks are sagging or broken.

(b) Front end assembly is bent or there are

damaged or twisted bolts.

(c) Front end nuts, or rivets are loose or

missing.

Additional Lighting Required on

Certain Vehicles

In addition to other equipment required by

G.S. 20-129.1, the following vehicles shall be

equipped as follows:

� Trailers having a gross weight in excess of

4,000 must be equipped with stoplights.

Additional Lighting Requirements

(1) On every bus or truck, whatever its size, there shall be the following:

(a) On the rear, 2 reflector, 1 at each side, and 1 stoplight.

(2) On every bus or truck 80 inches or more in overall width, in addition to the requirements in paragraph

(1):

(a) On the front, 2 clearance lamps, 1 at each side.

(b) On the rear, 2 clearance lamps, 1 at each side.

(c) On each side, 2 side marker lamps, 1 at or near the front, and 1 at or near the rear.

(d) On each side, 2 reflectors, 1 at or near the front and 1 at or near the rear.


(3) On every truck tractor:


(b) On the rear, 1 stoplight.

(4) On every trailer or semi-trailer having a gross weight in excess of 4,000 pounds:


(b) On each side, 2 lamps, 1 at or near the front and 1 at or near the rear.

(c) On each side, 2 reflectors, 1 at or near the front and 1 at or near the rear.

(d) On the rear, 2 clearance lamps, 1 at each side also; 2 reflectors, 1 at each side, and 1 stoplight.


(5) On every pole trailer in excess of 4,000 pounds gross weight:

(a) On each side, 1 side marker lamp and 1 clearance lamp which may be in combination, to show to the front, side and rear.

(b) On the rear of the pole trailer or load, 2 reflectors, 1 at each side.

(6) On every trailer, semi-trailer or pole trailer weighting 4,000 pounds gross or less:

(a) On the rear, 2 reflectors, 1 on each side. If any trailer or semi-trailer is so loaded or is of such dimensions as to obscure the stoplight on the towing vehicle, then such trailer shall also be equipped with 1 stoplight.


(6) (continued):

(b) Front clearance lamps and those marker lamps and reflectors mounted on the front or on the side near the front of a vehicle shall display or reflect an amber color.

(c) Rear clearance lamps and those marker lamps and reflectors mounted on the rear or on the sides near the rear of a vehicle shall display or reflect a red color.

(7) Brake lights (and/or brake reflectors) on the rear of a motor vehicle shall be red. The light illuminating the license plate shall be white. All lights shall be white, amber, yellow, clear or red.

.0549 Approval and Disapproval of

Vehicles

Vehicles shall not be disapproved for

any reason other than those specified

G.S. 20-183.5.

Exemptions From Safety Test

Requirements

An Exemption may be obtained when a

vehicle fails a safety inspection because of

missing emission control devices by

contacting a local DMV Inspection.

� The consumer will have to show proof that

the part needed to pass inspection is no

longer manufactured.

.0551 Window Tinting

(1) All stations performing window tinting

inspections shall have a photometer which has

been properly tested and approved by the

Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. Stations which

do not have an approved meter shall not inspect

vehicles with applications of after-factory window

tinting. Stations are not required to purchase a

photometer in order to perform safety inspections

on vehicles without after-factory window tinting.


(1)(continued):

(a) The mechanic shall determine if the vehicle has after-factory window tinting prior to beginning the inspection. The mechanic may use an automotive film check card or knowledge of window tinting techniques to determine if a vehicle has after-factory tint applied to any window of the vehicle.


(1)(continued):

(b) If the station determines a vehicle has

after-factory window tinting, but does not

have an approved light meter, the mechanic

must inform the customer he is unable to

perform the inspection. The station may not

charge for any portion of the inspection.


(2) All windows with

applications of after-

factory window tinting

shall be inspected with

an approved

photometer which is

properly calibrated and

functioning.


(3) Prior to performing a test on a vehicle, the mechanic shall test the photometer for accuracy by checking the calibration against a reference sample of glass provided by the manufacturer. If the photometer indicates the device exceeds the net light transmission by + or – three (3) percentage points, the unit shall be considered out of calibration and may not be used until properly calibrated.


(3)(continued):

(a) The reference sample must be clean and free of

dirt prior to performing the calibration check.

(b) If the reference sample has been broken or is

missing, the test shall not be performed and the

mechanic shall inform the customer he is unable to

perform the inspection.

(c) The windows to be tested shall be clean and

free of dirt or moisture.


(4) The test shall be

performed according

to the photometer

manufacturer’s

recommendations.


(5) Window tint shall fail safety inspection if:

(a) Any window on the vehicle with after-factory tint has a light transmission of less than thirty-two percent (32%).

� 35% TINT IS THE LEGAL LIMIT (+/-3%=32%)

(b) The tint (tinted film or another material used to tint the window) on any window is red, yellow or amber.


(5)(continued):

(c) The tint on the

windshield extends

more than five (5)

inches below the top of

the windshield or is

below the AS1 line of

the windshield, which

ever measurement is

longer. AS1 Line Right or Left Side of Windshield


(5)(continued):

(d) The light reflectance of a tinted window

is not twenty percent (20%) or less.

� NO REFLECTIVE TINT


(6) Vehicles with after-factory window tint shall not be inspected if the vehicle is exempt from window tinting restrictions under G.S. 20-127(c).

G.S. 20-127(c) Tinting Exceptions. The window tinting restrictions in subsection (b) of this section (percentage, color and reflectant) apply without exception to the windshield of a vehicle. The window tinting restrictions in subdivisions (b)(1) and (b)(2) of this section (percentage and color only) do not apply to any of the following vehicle windows:


(1) A window of an excursion passenger vehicle.

(Club Van)

(2) A window of a for-hire passenger vehicle.

(NO TAXIS)

(3) A window of a common carrier of passengers.

(Buses)

(4) A window of a motor home.


(5) A window of an ambulance.

(6) The rear window of a property-hauling vehicle.

(Trucks/Trailers)

(7) A window of a Limousine.

(8) A window of a Law Enforcement vehicle.

(9) A window of multipurpose vehicle.

(SUVs, Minivans, Pick-Up Trucks)


(10) A window of a vehicle that is registered in

another state and meets the requirements of

the state in which it is registered. (Rental

Vehicle)

(11) A window of a vehicle for which the

Division has issued a medical waiver

exception permit under subsection (f) of this

section. (A written form is required)

Window Tint Medical Exceptions

� People who suffer from a medical condition that makes them sensitive to visible light are eligible.

� They must apply to the Drivers Medical Evaluation Program.

� Their doctor must complete the Medical Evaluation Form.

� The permit is valid for 5 years unless directed otherwise by the Drivers Medical Evaluation Program.

� A renewal requires a medical recertification.

� They cannot have more than 2 permits at any one time.

Window Tint Medical Exceptions

(Continued)� The permit must specify the vehicle to which the

tint is applied, the windows to be tinted and the allowed levels of tinting.

� The written permit shall be carried in the vehicle at all times.

� A sticker shall be placed on the bottom left side of the rear window between the glass and the tint.

� The sticker is to notify prospective purchasers of the vehicle the tint is not legal without a permit.

� The Division has the right to adopt rules for the permits.

� Failure to display the sticker is subject to a $200.00 fine.


(7) The mechanic shall collect the fee as

specified in G.S. 20-183.7(a) for performing

the inspection.

� The $10.00 window tint fee charge during an

inspection is mandatory.

� There is no regulation of charges outside of

the statutory fee for the Official Inspection.

Procedure for conducting a State

Inspection

Main Menu

This is the main menu. To conduct an inspection, choose “State Inspection Menu” and press enter.

State Inspection Menu

To conduct an inspection, select option No. 2

Inspector ID Entry

Enter your Technician / Mechanic license ID number.

* The Technician / Mechanic ID number is typically your drivers license number.

Inspector Password Entry

Enter your access code in the space provided.

Safety Only Prompt

Ensure the vehicle requires a safety only inspection before proceeding.

Registration

Obtain the registration card from the customer. If no registration card is presented, scan the information from the

vehicle.

VIN Entry

Scan the bar code on the registration card or the Federal Decal. Manual entries of the VIN should only occur as a

last resort.

Plate Entry

Enter the vehicles license plate number. If no plate enterNONE.

Registration Location Entry

Select the appropriate option.

Information Confirmation

Verify entries are correct before proceeding with the inspection.

Initializing Modem

The computer will now make the first call to the State VID

No Match found

If the vehicle is not in the state VID, you will be prompted to enter the dealer number or vehicle owner information

Owner Information

Complete owner information as indicated and if required

County Entry

Select the appropriate county as indicated on the vehicle registration.

Vehicle Body Style

Select the appropriate body style.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

Determine the GVWR from the Federal Decal.

Weight Entry

Entry required only if the GVWR exceeds 8500 pounds.

Fuel Type

Enter the appropriate fuel type. * If the vehicle operates on gasoline during any portion of the operating cycle, it is a

gasoline operated vehicle.

Vehicle Model Information

Make the appropriate entries as required. If no odometer reading is available “ 000000 “ should be entered.

Vehicle Make Category

Select the appropriate classification.

Motor Vehicle Make

Select the appropriate make from the list provided.

Vehicle Information Summary

Ensure entries are correct before proceeding

Safety Inspection Entries

Enter the appropriate remark for each selection.

Tamper Inspecting Entries

Enter the appropriate remark for each selection.

Inspection Results

Network Access

The computer will now make the second and final call to the VID

Vehicle Inspection

Receipt/Statement

Two receipts should be printed for each inspection. The customer should receive one copy and the station should retain one copy for 18 months. * If unable to print a copy of the receipt, the station

should cease operation until the problem is resolved.

Penalty Schedule for Licensed Safety/OBD

Inspection Stations G.S. 20-183.7

Violations are categorized into 3 types:

Type I: Most Severe (Intentional Manipulation)

Type II: Less Severe (Accident or Careless Mistake)

Type III: Least Severe ( Administrative/Clerical Mistakes)

Type I Safety ViolationsType I Violations: Station: Mechanic:

20-183.7B(a)(1) Issue a safety inspection authorization to a vehicle without performing a safety inspection of the vehicle.

1st & 2nd Offense within

3 years

180-Day Suspension

$250.00 penalty

1st & 2nd

Offense within 7 years180-DaySuspension$100.00 penalty

20-183.7B(a)(2) Issue a safety electronic inspection authorization to a vehicle after performing a safety inspection of the vehicle and determining the vehicle did not pass inspection.

3rd or subsequent offense within three (3) years 2-year suspension $1,000.00 penalty.

3rd or

subsequent offense within seven (7) years 2-year suspension $250.00 penalty.

20-183.7B(a)(3) Allow a person who is not licensed as a safety inspection mechanic to perform a safety inspection for a self-inspector or at a safety inspection station.

Type I Safety Violations

Type I Violations: Station: Mechanic:

20-183.7B(a)(4) Sell or otherwise give an electronic authorization to another, other than as a result of a vehicle inspection in which the vehicle passed the inspection.

20-183.7B(a)(5) Be unable to account for 5 or more electronic inspection authorizations at any one time upon the request of an officer of the Division.

20-183.7B(a)(6) Perform a safety-only inspection on a vehicle that is subject to both a safety and emissions inspection.

20-183.7B(a)(7) Transfer an electronic inspection authorization from one vehicle to another.

Type I Safety Violations

Type I Violations: Station: Mechanic:

20-183.7B(a)(8) Conduct a safety inspection of a vehicle without driving the vehicle and without raising the vehicle and without opening the hood of the vehicle to check equipment located therein.

20-183.7(a)(9) Solicit or accept anything of value to pass a vehicle other than as provided in this part.

Type II Safety ViolationsType II Violations: Station: Mechanic:

20-183.7B(b)(1) Issue a safety electronic inspection authorization to a vehicle without driving the vehicle and checking the vehicles braking reaction, foot brake pedal reserve, and steering free play.

20-183.7B(b)(2) Issue a safety electronic inspection authorization to a vehicle without raising the vehicle to free each wheel and checking the vehicles tires, brake lines, parking brake cables, wheel drums, exhaust system, and the emissions equipment.

1st & 2nd

offense within 3 years$100.00 penalty

1st & 2nd

offense within 7 years$50.00 penalty

20-183.7B(b)(3) Issue a safety electronic inspection authorization to a vehicle without raising the hood and checking the master cylinder, horn mounting, power steering and emissions equipment.

3rd and subsequent offense within seven (7) years 90-day suspension Civil Penalty of $100.00

20-183.7B(b)(4) Conduct a safety inspection of a vehicle outside the designated inspection area.

Type II Safety Violations

Type II Violations: Station: Mechanic:

20-183.7B(b)(5) Issue a safety electronic inspection authorization to a vehicle with inoperative equipment or with equipment that does not conform to the vehicle’s original or design specification, or with equipment that is prohibited by any provision of law.

20-183.7B(b)(6) Issue a safety electronic authorization to a vehicle without performing a visual inspection of the vehicle’s exhaust system.

20-183.7B(b)(7) Issue a safety electronic inspection authorization to a vehicle without checking the exhaust system for leaks.


Type II Violations: Station: Mechanic:

20-183.7(b)(8) Issue a safety electronic inspection authorization to a vehicle that is required to have any of the following emission control devices, but does not have the device:

a. Catalytic Converterb. PCV valvec. Thermostatic air controld. Oxygen sensore. Unleaded fuel restrictorf. Gasoline tank capg. Air injection systemh. Evaporative emissions systemi. Exhaust gas recirculation

EGR valve.


Type II Violations: Station: Mechanic:20-183.7B(b)(9) Issue a safety inspection authorization to a

vehicle after failing to inspect four or more of the following:

a. Emergency Brakeb. Hornc. Headlight high beam indicatord. Inside rearview mirrore. Outside rearview mirrorf. Turn Signalsg. Parking lightsh. Headlights operation and lensi. Headlights aimj. Stoplightsk. Taillightsl. License plate lightsm. Windshield wipern. Windshield wiper bladeso. Window tint

20-183.7B(b)(10) Impose no fee for a safety inspection of a vehicle or the issuance of a safety inspection authorization or impose a fee for one of these actions in an amount that differs from the amount set in G.S. 20-183.7.

Type III Safety ViolationsType III Violations: Station: Mechanic:

20-183.7B(c)(1) Fail to post an Safety Inspection licensed issued by the Division.

1st or 2nd

Offense within seven (7) yearsWarning Letter

1st or 2nd

Offense within seven (7) yearsWarning Letter

20-183.7B(c)(2) Fail to send information on safety inspections to the Division at the time or in the form required by the Division.

3rd or subsequent Offense within seven (7) yearsCivil penalty of $25.00

3rd or subsequent Offense within seven (7) yearsCivil penalty of $25.00

20-183.7B(c)(3) Fail to post all safety information required by the federal law and by the Division to be posted.

20-183.7B(c)(4) Fail to put the required information on an inspection receipt in a legible manner using ink.

20-183.7(c)(5) Issue a receipt that is signed by a person other than the safety inspection mechanic.

Type III Safety Violations

Type III Violations: Station: Mechanic:

20-183.7(c)(6) Place an incorrect expiration date on an electronic inspection authorization.

20-183.7(c)(7) Put a safety inspection sticker on a vehicle after failing to inspect three or fewer of the following:

a. Emergency Brakeb. Hornc. Headlight high beam indicatord. Inside rearview mirrore. Outside rearview mirrorf. Turn Signalsg. Parking lightsh. Headlights operation and lensi. Headlights aimj. Stoplightsk. Taillightsl. License plate lightsm. Windshield wipern. Windshield wiper bladeso. Window tint

Type III Safety ViolationsType III Violations: Station: Mechanic:

20-183.7B(d) Fail to obtain permission of the vehicle operator before making vehicle repairs

20-183.7B(d) Fail to issue a receipt and statement to the vehicle operator.

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