Relocating to a new province, such as Alberta, often comes with a variety of tasks. One of these is ensuring that your vehicle meets the specific safety standards of your new home. This is where an Out of Province Vehicle Inspection comes in. Shops in Edmonton, such as Sure Shot Auto and Trailer, offer these inspections to make the process of registering your vehicle in Alberta simple and straightforward. Passing this inspection and obtaining the necessary paperwork is a prerequisite for getting your car or truck registered.
Alberta has its unique set of safety standards, which may differ significantly from those in other provinces. As such, these inspections are crucial in ensuring that everyone on the road is safe and that all vehicles meet Alberta’s stringent safety criteria.
The Out of Province Vehicle Inspection Process
A Certified Journeyman Mechanic licensed by Alberta Transportation must perform the inspection. At Sure Shot Auto and Trailer, we understand your time is valuable. That’s why our inspections typically take only about two hours to complete. During this time, our experienced mechanics meticulously check almost all vehicle components to ensure they’re in good working condition.
What Does the Inspection Include?
- Electrical systems – Any electrical faults can lead to serious safety issues, thus we thoroughly examine all electrical components.
- Glass – We check for any chips or cracks in the windshield or windows.
- Wipers and defrosters – These are key to maintaining visibility, especially during Alberta’s harsh winters.
- Steering – Any faults in the steering system can hinder vehicle control.
- Lights – We check all lights, including headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and indicators, to ensure they’re working correctly.
- Brakes – We thoroughly inspect the brake system, as it is crucial for safe driving.
- Engine controls – We check for any issues that could impair the engine’s performance.
- Fuel and exhaust systems – We inspect these systems to ensure they’re working efficiently and not polluting the environment.
- Powertrain – This includes the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
- Driveline – We check all driveline components to ensure smooth operation.
- Suspension – We inspect the suspension system for any wear or damage.
- Wiring and lights – We ensure all wiring is intact and lights are functioning properly.
- Tires – We inspect the tires for wear and ensure they have the correct pressure.
- Body condition – We check the body for any signs of damage or corrosion.
Beyond checking these individual components, Sure Shot Auto and Trailer also evaluates the overall structural integrity of the vehicle. Our skilled technicians look for signs of major collisions, damage, or significant repairs. Any signs of corrosion in the vehicle’s body and frame are also taken into account.
Why Some Out of Province Vehicle Inspections Fail
Despite the rigorous nature of the inspection, most vehicles usually fail due to minor issues that are surprisingly easy to fix. To ensure your vehicle passes the inspection, it’s advisable to check the following common problem areas yourself:
Windshield Wipers
Believe it or not, faulty windshield wipers can cause an inspection to fail. If your wipers have tears, chips, or are not clearing the windshield effectively, it’s best to replace them before the inspection.
Lighting System
A burnt-out headlamp or any other malfunctioning light can result in a failed inspection. Ensure you check all lights, including indicators, hazard lights, and brake lights, and replace any that are out.
Windshield Condition
Cracks or chips in the windshield can cause an inspection to fail. If your glass is in bad shape, consider replacing it before the inspection to ensure clear visibility and safety.
Brake System
If your brake pads or shoes are worn out, they can cause an inspection failure. Reliable brakes are crucial for safety. At Sure Shot Auto and Trailer, we can quickly repair or replace your brakes, ensuring they meet Alberta’s safety standards.
Tire Condition
Tires with little to no tread will fail the inspection. Sure Shot Auto and Trailer offers a wide selection of tires and can install them for you, ensuring your vehicle has the grip it needs to handle Alberta’s varied road conditions.
Engine Warning Light
If your check engine light is on, this indicates a potential issue that needs diagnosis. Sure Shot Auto and Trailer can run a comprehensive diagnostic to identify the issue. If the check engine light is on during the inspection, the vehicle cannot pass.
Ensuring a Smooth Out of Province Vehicle Inspection in Edmonton
While an out of province Vehicle Inspection in Alberta is a legal requirement, it’s also a smart move for any vehicle owner. A professional technician can identify potential problems and suggest preventative maintenance. This not only ensures the safety of you and other road users but also helps avoid serious, expensive repairs down the line. At Sure Shot Auto and Trailer, we’re committed to providing top-quality inspection services. We can provide a quote for any required work and make recommendations to improve your vehicle’s safety and performance, helping to extend its lifespan and maintain its value.
