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Car Auto Repairs of Texas

Guide · 6 min read

What Does a Texas Vehicle Inspection Check? Full Checklist

The short answer

Texas inspections check brakes, parking brake, lights, horn, mirrors, steering, seat belts, tires, wipers, window tint, and gas cap. In emissions counties like Dallas, Harris, and Travis, the OBD-II system is also tested; an active check engine light means an automatic fail.

The complete list of items Texas inspectors look at — and how to pass the first time. This guide covers Safety inspection checklist; Emissions (OBD-II) testing; How to pass on the first try so you can describe the problem and decide what to check next.

Texas State Inspection: a closer look

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Illustration of a technician using a diagnostic scanner

Computer diagnostics

A fault code identifies a system to investigate, not necessarily a part to replace.

Illustration of a battery tester connected to car battery terminals

Battery testing

Battery testing is one part of investigating starting and charging concerns.

Illustration of a technician inspecting a vehicle on a lift

Hands-on inspection

A hands-on inspection helps connect the driver's symptoms with the vehicle's condition.

Illustrative images, not customer repair photographs.

Safety inspection checklist

Horn, windshield wipers, mirrors, steering, seat belts, service and parking brakes, tires (minimum 2/32 inch tread), wheel assembly, exhaust system, headlights, tail lights, stop lights, turn signals, license plate light, reflectors, and window tint (front side windows must allow 25% light transmission).

Emissions (OBD-II) testing

Gas vehicles 2 to 24 years old in emissions counties get an OBD-II test. The inspector checks that the check engine light works, isn't on, and that readiness monitors are set. Recently disconnected batteries can cause 'not ready' failures.

How to pass on the first try

Walk around with a friend and test every bulb, check wiper blades, look at tire tread, and fix any check engine light before you go. A quick pre-inspection at Car Auto Repairs of Texas catches these in minutes.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes, if front side windows let in less than 25% of light.

Cracks that obstruct the driver's view can fail.

New vehicles get a two-year initial inspection at sale.

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