Inspect the car – this is what you should consider

What is a car inspection?

Inspections are a recurring check that all car owners must adhere to. With a little forethought, you can both reduce the risk of complaints and save money.

How often should the car be inspected?

The first inspection must be carried out no later than three years after the car has been put into service. After that, the car must be inspected after another two years. After that, inspections apply every year.

The inspection period is easy to check by entering the registration number on the Swedish Transport Agency's website or at an inspection agency. If the car is not inspected on time, it will be banned from driving and may no longer be used in traffic.

How much does the inspection cost?

The price for a control inspection is set by the market. This means that prices can vary quite a bit between different players and times. Most inspection companies also use dynamic pricing, where popular times – such as evenings and weekends – cost more. For those who are flexible, there is therefore money to save by choosing a less popular time.

What happens if the car fails?

Some remarks are less serious and do not require a follow-up inspection. The car can then be approved with a remark. However, if the fault is assessed to affect road safety, the car will instead receive a so-called second. This means that the problem must be fixed and that the car will then need to undergo a re-inspection. In the case of serious faults, the car can be banned from driving immediately.

Security for the next owner

A recent inspection can also be an advantage when selling. For the buyer, it means extra security that the car has been recently inspected.

When you sell your car through Kvdbil we ensure that it is inspected prior to sale, if required. Cars sold through us always have a passed inspection and also undergo a comprehensive vehicle test of 170 checkpoints.

8 things to consider before an inspection

A large proportion of the faults that lead to complaints are easy to fix in advance. Doing a quick review of the car before the inspection is therefore time well invested.

• Lighting is a common cause of complaints. Check that all lights are working – low beam, high beam, brake lights, turn signals, parking lights and license plate lights.

• The tread depth on summer tires must be at least 1.6 mm and on winter tires at least 3 mm.

• Windshield wipers and washer fluid should work. Top up washer fluid if necessary.

• Take out the warning triangle and place it easily accessible in the car, for example in the trunk.

• The seat belts should be intact and working properly. It is a good idea to fasten the belts in advance – this will make them easier for the inspection technician to check.

• If the car has a removable towbar, you must bring it to the inspection, along with the corresponding key.

• For some modern cars, there is a simpler key (or app) that does not allow all functions in the vehicle. Therefore, bring the car's master key to the inspection.

• It is also an advantage if the car is clean and not fully loaded. The inspection technician needs to be able to check the chassis, lighting and trunk without obstructions.