How can I pass inspection with bad tires?

The Penny Method Ensure the edge of the penny is touching the bottom of the tread, rather than a tread bar. The distance from the edge of a penny to Lincoln’s head is about 1/16 inch, so you need to replace your tires if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head.

How do I know if my tires will pass inspection?

Place a penny, with the top of Lincoln’s head pointing down, into several tread grooves across the tire. If part of Lincoln’s head is always covered by the tread, you have more than 2/32″ of tread depth remaining. If you can see the top of his hair on any part of your tire, you likely won’t pass inspection.

Will low tire pressure fail inspection?

Yes. TPMS needs to be functioning properly in order to pass inspection. No. TPMS needs to be functioning properly in order to pass inspection.

Will tire pressure light fail inspection in VA?

Confirmed by the DMV. No. TPMS is inspected but it is not grounds for inspection failure. TPMS needs to be functioning properly in order to pass inspection.

What can you use to test tread wear on your tires?

The Penny Tire Test One easy way is the penny test. Simply insert a penny into your tire’s tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is less than 2/32 inch and it’s time to replace your tires.

Will my car pass smog with tire pressure light on?

Thanks! Answer: The TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitor System) will not cause a smog check failure. The TPMS light can be ON and a vehicle pass the smog inspection.

How long can you drive with an expired inspection sticker in Virginia?

Virginia Code §46.2-1157 states that “[n]o law-enforcement officer shall stop a motor vehicle due to an expired vehicle inspection sticker until the first day of the fourth month after the original expiration date.”

Why do tires fail state inspection?

There are dozens of areas that technicians inspect, but there are a few in particular that commonly cause vehicles to fail. Worn-out tires are a common cause for state inspection failure. Why? It all revolves around safety. One factor to take into serious consideration is your tire tread depth.

How much tire tread do I need to fail a Virginia inspection?

One factor to take into serious consideration is your tire tread depth. The tread on most new tires is anywhere from 10/32 of an inch to 11/32 of an inch. You will fail your Virginia vehicle inspection when your tread depth is below 2/32 of an inch.

How do I know if my tires need to be replaced?

When your tire tread is worn, you will not have the traction against the road to safely handle, slow, and stop your vehicle. Your tread must be at least 2/32” thick. Before your inspection, you can check your tread using the tire wear indicator bars, which mark this minimum tread length for you.

How often should you have your tires inspected?

The tires on all vehicles generally must be inspected by the state once per year, although commercial trucks have more stringent requirements. You should also inspect your own tires when they reach their maximum recommended mileage or if you’re buying used tires.