Starting September 1, 2022, fresh rules come into force for the technical inspection of passenger cars. The changes are designed to streamline the process while ensuring safety and compliance on the road, and they affect drivers, car owners, and the inspection personnel alike. This shift marks a notable evolution in how inspections are conducted and what is expected from vehicles before they can be legally operated.
In practical terms, drivers and owners in many cases will no longer be required to present a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, or a warning triangle during the inspection. This update was discussed by Sergei Zubrisky, an associate professor in the Ground Vehicles Department at Moscow Poly, during an interview with Prime. Nevertheless, a leading automotive publication in Russia, Behind the Wheel, cautions against hastily discarding these items. The advice is rooted in the idea that while the checklist has become more flexible, prudent readiness remains an important habit for motorists who travel across regions and borders, where roadside safety equipment continues to be a wise precaution.
The new standards also reflect a nuanced approach to vehicle leakage. Minor leaks of oils and working fluids will not automatically disqualify a vehicle from receiving a diagnostic card that authorizes operation. This adjustment acknowledges that many vehicles display small, non-critical drips and seepage during routine operation, and it is the overall condition and reliability of the vehicle that should guide assessment. For owners in Canada and the United States, this shift translates to less frequent disqualification for minor, non-urgent leaks when the vehicle otherwise meets safety and environmental requirements. It remains essential, however, to address leaks promptly to prevent longer-term damage and environmental impact, especially in regions with strict emissions and spill-prevention standards.
Inspectors at service centers, traditionally focused on a wide range of tangible conditions, will adjust their attention to corrosion and exhaust noise levels in a different way. While these factors are still considered, the emphasis is shifting toward a broader evaluation of overall vehicle integrity and the ability to operate safely. This aligns with modern inspection philosophies that prioritize functional performance and ongoing reliability over isolated, static measurements. Vehicle owners should view this as a reminder to keep up with routine maintenance, including periodic checks for rust and exhaust system wear, which can influence both safety and long-term costs in any market, including North America.
Another notable change concerns the way tread depth is described and measured. The standard now references tread height in place of remaining tread depth, with the two concepts effectively equivalent. The wording adjustment is intended to reduce confusion during inspections and ensure that tire condition is assessed with a consistent, clear framework for all stakeholders. For readers in North American markets, the underlying principle remains clear: tyre tread must meet minimum safety specifications, and regular monitoring of tread wear is crucial for grip, handling, and overall road safety, particularly in areas that experience varied weather conditions and seasonal road hazards.
In recent developments, passenger cars have not required a mandatory technical inspection in every situation, but this exemption does not apply to vehicles destined for international travel or to those whose owners plan journeys abroad. Before taking the vehicle beyond domestic borders, an independent inspection is often required to certify roadworthiness and avoid delays at international checkpoints. This practice benefits drivers who intend to navigate cross-border routes, as it provides a pre-trip assurance that the vehicle complies with the destination country’s safety standards and regulatory expectations. The emphasis here is on proactive preparation rather than reactive compliance, a mindset that resonates with travelers who rely on their vehicles for work, family travel, or long-distance adventures across North America and beyond.
In summary, the suspension of the universal requirement for a technical inspection does not permit operation of a vehicle with obvious malfunctions. The core principle remains intact: a vehicle must be safe, roadworthy, and compliant to be used on public roads. When defects or safety concerns are present, owners are advised to address them promptly and to consider the broader implications for safety, insurance, and liability as they navigate the evolving regulatory landscape. This perspective reflects a balanced view from automotive authorities and industry experts, who stress that inspections are primarily about protecting drivers, passengers, and the surrounding environment while maintaining dependable mobility across different jurisdictions.