3 Most Common Reasons Vehicles Fail Maryland State Inspection

As a certified station for Maryland state inspections, AutoStream Car Care Center has seen countless cars come in for inspection, only to fail for the same frequent causes. Unfortunately, many of these customers have to wait through complete re-inspection after simple fixes for worn out parts. We want to help you avoid the hassle of re-inspection by preparing you for the most common reasons that vehicles fail state inspection. These issues can be easily checked and repaired before inspection, which means your car won’t fail for something as simple as a dead bulb. If it’s time for your car’s inspection in Baltimore, Columbia, Clarksburg, Ellicott City or Woodstock, be sure to conduct your own checks for these common issues beforehand.

1. Tire Depth
   The standard minimum requirement for tread depth on tires in the state of Maryland is 2/32 of an inch. If you don’t have a tire tread depth gauge at home, you can use a coin instead to check your tires’ tread. If you insert a penny with Lincoln upside down, head first into the tread, part of his head should be covered. If you can see his head completely, you have less than 2/32 of an inch of tread and it’s time for new tires.

2. Windshield Wipers
   Windshield wipers are one of those car parts that we rarely pay attention to until we need them. Take some time before your inspection to visually check them personally for tears, chips and other signs of wear that might cause your car to fail inspection. Windshield wipers are easy to replace, but unfortunately many drivers don’t learn to do so until until after their car’s inspection.

3. Bulbs
   Dead bulbs are probably the most commonly missed item during inspections at AutoStream Car Care Center. We understand why. It’s hard for drivers to frequently check all their vehicle’s lights from the inside while driving, especially the rear tail lights and signals. That’s why we recommend you turn all your lights and signals on for a quick walk around check yourself before your official inspection, so you don’t have to do it twice because of a burnt out bulb.