In Maryland, vehicles only need to go through a Maryland State Safety Inspection when they are being bought or sold (used or new) or the vehicle is newly registered in Maryland coming from out of state.
While this means that most car owners don’t need to worry about a Maryland State Inspection very often, it is important to know what common reasons a vehicle fails a Maryland State Inspection. Without a pass from a Maryland vehicle inspection, the car or truck cannot be registered and cannot be legally driven.
Find out the most common reasons why a vehicle fails a Maryland Safety Inspection – and how to fix the repairs before your appointment.
1) Check Engine Light is on
If your check engine light is on, for any reason or any length of time, it is an automatic fail for Maryland State Inspection. The check engine light indicates a problem with the engine, and even if it is something small like your gas cap isn’t properly tightened, it will cause a fail.
To fix a check engine light before your Maryland Safety Inspection, stop by your local auto shop and ask them to run a free diagnostic test. This only takes a few minutes and will display a code that shows why the check engine light is on.
You can then request the proper repairs or do a quick fix yourself – sometimes the reason your check engine light is on is nothing more than a dirty air filter, which is a quick swap! See 7 common reasons a check engine light is on to see if you can fix the repairs yourself.
2) The Tire Tread is Worn
We talk a lot about tire maintenance and it’s because proper tire care is important for safety. A blown tire is one of the leading causes of car accidents. When you take your vehicle for a safety inspection, you want to check your tire tread before the appointment.
The simple way to be sure your tires will pass is to insert a penny into the tread and see if the tread goes past the head. If not, you’re going to need new tires. The good news is, many auto inspection stations, like Hoffmaster’s Auto Care, offer tire replacements and alignments, so you can have your car up and ready to go from a reputable source, all in one place.
3) Brake Pads are Thin
Brake pads make our list of every Maryland State Inspection Checklist and it’s because they’re out of sight, out of mind for most drivers. However, faulty brakes are a leading reason why vehicles fail a Maryland State Inspection.
Your brake pads should not be thin, should not squeak, and there should be no delay when stopping your vehicle. If any part of your brake pads, or brakes, are not operating correctly, you will need to do a brake replacement.
Take a visual look at your brakes or spring for a general check-up appointment to ensure your car is in top shape. This is never a bad idea if your car hasn’t been inspected in a while or you haven’t done repairs recently.
4) Your Vehicle has Tinted Windows
Many new drivers in Maryland aren’t aware of how tinted their windows can be. Driver and front passenger windows must allow for 35% light transmittance or it’s an immediate fail during the Maryland State Inspection. Maryland law also does not allow red, yellow, amber, or tints with a sparkling or reflective effect.
If you’ve purchased a new or used vehicle with tint, you want to check the tint before the auto safety inspection or have the tint removed to avoid any failures, fines, re-inspection fees, etc.
5) You Need Steering or Suspension Repairs
Bumping curbs, hitting potholes, and even just standard driving wear-and-tear can take a toll on your steering and suspension parts. If you notice a loose steering wheel, a bumpy ride, or even your car drifting to one side, these are all reasons your vehicle could fail the Maryland Auto Safety Inspection.
To avoid a failure due to steering or suspension repairs, make sure to check your car’s steering wheel, alignment, and suspension when on the road. If anything feels “off” call to schedule your repairs before the inspection.
Is the steering wheel loose? Check out 3 common reasons your steering feels loose and how to fix it. A little diagnostics now can save you a lot of time later.
6) There Are Fluid Leaks
No, the dark spot under your car in the driveway isn’t “normal.” While drivers like to joke that every car in America has an oil leak, it will still cause you to fail the Maryland State Safety Inspection. Leaks from hoses, brake lines, engine components, and more are all cause for concern and won’t allow a car to be passed.
More serious fluid leaks, like from the brake lines or coolant, can have serious consequences and lead to major accidents. Even small leaks from oil or windshield wiper fluid can eventually damage the engine and lead to bigger problems.
Check under the car before your inspection appointment and ask your auto shop for a quick tune-up or hose replacement if you notice dark spots indicating fluid leaks.
7) No Working Horn or Mirrors
How often do you think about your horn? Not very often, and you probably don’t remember the last time you tested it. However, a horn is a safety mechanism to alert other drivers on the road. If your horn doesn’t work, you’ll need to have it replaced before you can pass the Maryland Vehicle Safety Inspection.
Car mirrors also have to be in good condition. They must be able to be adjusted and provide a clear line of sight. No mess, no warped glass, and no DIY repairs like ducttape keeping it attached to the vehicle.
Before your inspection appointment, sound the horn and adjust your mirrors. Make sure everything is smooth and simple. This will help make sure you pass the Maryland Safety Inspection the first time, without surprise repairs.
8) Body Damage is Present
Yes, body damage, including a dented bumper, will cause your vehicle to fail the Maryland State Inspection. Body damage indicates a collision, which could mean damaged parts underneath. Severe dents and body damage pose significant risks on the road.
Don’t ignore a dislodged bumper, dented body panels, or other issues. A fully, safely operating vehicle includes a smooth body panel that won’t cause problems later. You can always ask your local auto shop for recommendations to get a fix for your body damage repairs before the inspection appointment.
Other Common Reasons for a Vehicle to Fail a Maryland State Inspection
In addition to your window tint, brake pads, check engine light, and tires, it doesn’t hurt to do a quick overview of vehicle to spot any other issues that may cause a failure. Take a quick glance to ensure the rest of your vehicle is ready to go.
- No cracks or chips in the windshield
- Smooth operating windshield wipers
- All lights are working (brakes, hazard, turn signals, headlamps)
- The heater is properly functioning
- Fenders and bumpers are not damaged
- No exhaust leaks
- The trunk and floor of the vehicle is free of holes or damage
- Properly reading speedometer
- Functioning seat belts
Schedule a Maryland State Inspection in Silver Spring Today
Hoffmaster’s Auto Care is a certified inspection station for Maryland vehicle inspections. We help car and truck owners get all repairs needed at a fair price so your vehicle is safe and ready to be registered.
Call today to set up a tune-up, repairs, diagnostics, or your vehicle safety inspection. We are here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common reasons a vehicle fails the Maryland state safety inspection?
Vehicles often fail due to issues with brakes, tires, lighting, suspension, or the exhaust system. Faulty wipers, mirrors, or even minor cracks in the windshield can also lead to failure.
Can worn brake pads or rotors cause a failed inspection?
Yes. Brake pads that are too thin or rotors that are warped or damaged are common reasons for failure. Maryland requires brakes to meet specific safety standards to ensure stopping power and performance.
Will a vehicle fail the inspection if the tires are in poor condition?
Yes. Tires with low tread depth, uneven wear, or visible damage (such as cuts or bulges) will not pass inspection. Tires must have at least 2/32 of an inch tread depth and be in good condition.
Are lights and signals checked during the Maryland safety inspection?
Yes. Non-functioning headlights, brake lights, turn signals, or other required lighting will result in a failed inspection. Ensuring all bulbs and fuses are working is essential.
Can suspension or steering issues cause a failed inspection?
Yes. Problems like worn-out shocks, struts, or steering components (e.g., tie rods or ball joints) will cause failure. These parts are critical for vehicle stability and control.
Does a cracked windshield cause inspection failure?
It depends. Minor chips or cracks may be acceptable if they don’t obstruct the driver’s view. However, large cracks or damage within the driver’s line of sight will result in failure.
Can exhaust system issues cause a failed Maryland state inspection?
Yes. A leaking or damaged exhaust system, especially one that allows harmful gases to escape, will fail. Inspectors also check for excessive noise caused by exhaust problems.
Hoffmaster's Auto Care
Our mission at Hoffmaster’s Auto Care is to provide our customers with the highest level of car repair service and expertise, delivered with honesty, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring, MD has been in business for more than 40 years. All our technicians are ASE certified. You can rely on our experience and knowledge for high-quality auto repair and maintenance services.
