A car safety inspection is always worthwhile. Before investing in a vehicle or selling one, you should be aware of the vehicle's overall condition. To do this you can get a safety standards certificate.
Are you buying a used car or selling a used car in Ontario? You should know about getting a car safety inspection and getting a safety standards certificate. You’ll likely need one to complete the sale or get your vehicle on the road.
In this blog we provide you with a definition of the safety standard certificate. Learn about when you need a car safety inspection, where to get one and how it connects to your car insurance quote.
A safety standards certificate is a document that outlines the health of a vehicle. You need it to get a license plate for a vehicle. The certificate proves a vehicle meets the minimum required safety standards in Ontario. The certificate does not guarantee the condition of the vehicle and it does not act as a warranty when you purchase a used vehicle.
You need a car safety standard certificate when you buy or sell a used vehicle through a private sale. You can buy a used vehicle and register it without a certificate. You cannot get plates for it without a safety standards certificate.
There are four instances when you need to get a car safety inspection. Here is when you need an inspection :
The vehicle safety inspection cost depends on where you get the certificate. The cost of the inspection and certification is different at each Motor Vehicle Inspection Station. They set the price independently. Cost is not set by the government of Ontario. Shop around to find the shop that offers the best price.
No. Private vehicle sellers do not have to provide you with a certificate. You can request one to be part of the sale. If the seller doesn’t provide a certificate, you will need to get one by getting the car inspected.
There are many locations in Ontario where you can get a safety standards certificate. Most mechanics and local auto shops offer the service. The inspection station must be licensed by the MTO. Locations will have a sign saying they have Motor Vehicle Inspection Station designation.
To get a certificate, your vehicle needs to pass the inspection. All vehicles must pass the Passenger/Light-Duty Vehicle Inspection Standard. Upon completion, you will receive the certificate.
Vehicles go through a thorough inspection. The car safety inspection checklist includes these components :
If the vehicle doesn’t pass, the owner cannot register it. This means you cannot drive the vehicle until the repairs are complete, even if you have Ontario car insurance.
Here are some common reasons why a car might fail a safety certificate test in Ontario:
If you are planning to get a test done, always consult the Ontario Ministry of Transportation website or a certified inspection station for detailed information.
The inspection takes about 90 minutes to complete. It may take longer, depending on the location.
Yes. You can sell a used vehicle without the inclusion of a safety standards certificate. It is common for sellers to include it as part of the used vehicle information package. Without a certificate, buyers may be reluctant to make an offer.
The certificate is valid for 36 days after the inspection is complete. If you fail to register the vehicle within this time period you will need to re-do the inspection before you can register your vehicle.
No. Most minor issues will not prevent your vehicle from failing the test. You don’t have to worry about minor surface issues such as small rust spots, dents, or small windshield cracks.
Yes. You do not need a safety standards certificate if you are transferring vehicle ownership to your spouse.
No. A safety check is not the same as a safety standards certificate. A safety inspection only tests to ensure a car is safe to drive. The certificate inspection is more thorough. It also tests steering, braking, lights and more.
Categories | Auto |
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Tags | Driving Tips |
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