Routine inspections

[HannaC9]

Hi, I own a 2005 Pilot and am due for my first inspection this summer. I was wondering if anybody knew if it's typically acceptable for the owner of the car to be present during the inspection. In my mind, a inspection for a brand new car should be quick and easy, so there should be no reason why I can't be there when they inspect it. Anybody have any advice? Most vehicles remain in perfect condition when it's only a year old. I could understand if there was something mechanically dysfunctional about my car, because that stuff takes time but an inspection for a car this new should literally be like 10 minutes. The car runs beautifully, and I worry that my first time bringing it to the dealership shop will result in some sort of "accidental" damage. I would like to be able to be around to prevent something bad from happening. I've seen one too many times how devastating it is to put your trust in the mechanic and to have to bring the car home damaged. The mechanics always deny responsibility, so if I'm there to keep an eye on things, it should be easier to prevent such a thing from happening. Let me know what you guys think, I appreciate it. I've tried looking for the answer everywhere. I know all repair shops are different and they might not all have the same rules, but I plan to have my inspection done at the dealership. So if anyone knows if dealerships will allow you to be present during the inspection, Id appreciate it. I got scratches buffed out at the dealership before, and they were not busy at all and I was right there with them while they buffed it out. So I can't see what kind of excuse they would use not to let me stick around during the inspection.

thank you.

[jay]

What "inspection" are you referring to? Where are you located? Is it an annual mechanical safety inspection like they require here in Virginia?

[HannaC9]

I'm in Maine. Yes, I'm referring to the yearly mechanical inspection. I don't know if it's different in other states. Thanks for replying.

[jay]

You might want to update your profile to add your location, for just such questions as this. One of our Maine members could probably address your question. The rules or guidelines for such inspections, if any, vary by state. For example. in Virginia, the State Police administer the system, and license the facilities that are authorized to do the inspections. I could go to the local Shell station and stand right there in the bay while the inxpection is done, or take it to the dealer, and have to wait in the lounge while it's done.

If it's still they way it was 30 years ago, Tennessee can't spell inspection, much less require one. Maryland only requires one when the vehicle ownership changes hands, and it's more extensive and expensive than the ones in Virginia.

[jl_ss]

PM Mainer, he's been a member for a while and likely knows a bit about ME inspections: Link