New vehicles, recently purchased used vehicles, or vehicles being registered in the state of Maryland must undergo a one-time state safety inspection. The Maryland vehicle safety inspection checks the physical components of the car for safety, including brakes, seatbelts, steering, tires, etc. The intent is to ensure a safe vehicle on the road.
Many drivers are worried that if their check engine light is on, they will fail the Maryland Auto Inspection. If your check engine light is on and you need to schedule a Maryland Vehicle Safety Inspection, you will NOT automatically fail the inspection. However, you will automatically fail Maryland Emissions Testing if it is required for your vehicle.
Learn what happens if you have a check engine light on and need an MD state vehicle inspection, and what to do if you have a check engine light on and need to pass Maryland emissions testing.
What To Know About the MD State Safety Inspection
When buying a used or new vehicle in Maryland, or registering a vehicle from a different state in Maryland due to a move or change in ownership, you are required to undergo a one-time vehicle safety inspection. This safety inspection must be completed by a certified Maryland State Inspection Station. You have 60 days to complete your inspection if you are moving to the area or 90 days to complete your inspection if you are purchasing a new or used vehicle.
Will a Check Engine Light Fail the MD Vehicle Inspection
No, your check engine light being on will not automatically cause you to fail your MD state safety inspection.
The check engine light being on will be noted in your inspection report and may require follow-up diagnostic testing to identify the source and complete repairs. It will not prevent your safety inspection from passing, however. Follow-up testing is encouraged if you intend to sell the car or to ensure you will not face a costly breakdown. Many state inspection stations can run diagnostics for you at your request to identify the source of the issue to prepare for repairs.
What Will Cause My Safety Inspection to Fail
The Maryland Safety Inspection looks at the physical parts of your car for safety. This includes steering, brakes, tires, windshield wipers, etc. While some drivers are more concerned with their dashboard lights, they neglect to fix the common parts of their car that could cause a safety inspection to fail.
Before scheduling your MD auto inspection, review an MD Auto Inspection Checklist to see if your car meets the requirements for Maryland safety. Completing these repairs is more important for your initial inspection, and you can request a diagnostic test be ran to identify why the check engine light, or any dashboard lights, are on.
A Check Engine Light Will Fail Maryland Emissions Testing
Many Maryland drivers forget to prepare their vehicle for emissions testing, which is required in 13 counties, plus Baltimore City. Your check engine light being on will automatically fail the emissions test, whether you choose a self-service emissions test or schedule with a certified emissions testing location.
The check engine light automatically sends a code during emissions testing, which is flagged and causes an immediate failure. While the MD Auto Inspection is concerned with road safety, the emissions testing aims to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles. Because the check engine light could indicate an issue that affects emissions, it is an automatic failure.
How to Pass Emissions with the Check Engine Light On
Unlike the MD Auto Inspection, which is only required when registering your vehicle, emissions testing is required every two years. You cannot pass your emissions test with the check light on. A failure results in the denial of the renewal of your registration and your vehicle not being road legal.
To pass emissions with a check light on, you need to either clear the code or fix the underlying problem. You can visit Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring, MD for a diagnostic appointment and emissions repairs. They can let you know if it’s something as simple as sealing the gas cap or if you need engine repairs.
See how the MD State Inspection compares to Emission Testing so you can prepare for both without delays or setbacks.
Buying or Selling a Car with the Check Engine Light On
If you are buying or selling a vehicle in Maryland with the check engine light on, you want to declare the vehicle is being sold as-is. You are legally allowed to sell a car with the check engine light on, though it is important to disclose it in all paperwork and define the car being sold in as-is condition. For buyers of a used vehicle, all sales are final, and you cannot request a return or money back for the check engine light being on.
Used car buyers are recommended to thoroughly inspect the vehicle, ask for past paperwork on vehicle repairs, and request any other additional information to protect their investment.
Clear the Check Engine Light and Drive with Confidence: Contact Hoffmaster’s Auto
Located in Silver Spring, MD, Hoffmaster’s Auto Care is a certified Maryland inspection station. We can handle safety inspections for new or used vehicles, plus vehicles being registered in Maryland. We can advise on diagnostics and repairs if your check light is on and let you know if your vehicle is likely to pass emissions testing.
We work efficiently to help secure your vehicle registration and keep you safe on the road. Call today to learn more and schedule your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pass a Maryland safety inspection with the check engine light on?
Yes, the check engine light will not automatically fail your Maryland safety inspection. However, it will be noted in the inspection report and could cause issues down the line. It is advised to handle all repairs ASAP to avoid unexpected breakdowns or problems with your emissions testing.
Will a check engine light cause my car to fail Maryland emissions testing?
Yes, the check engine light code will immediately cause your car to fail Maryland emissions testing. This is because the issue could be related to the vehicle’s emissions. It is advised to find the source of the code and complete all needed repairs to avoid an emissions failure and delay in registering your vehicle.
What should I do if the check engine light comes on right before I sell my car?
Schedule a diagnostics appointment with your local auto shop to identify why the check engine light came on. There are many common causes for a check engine light to come on that have quick and easy fixes. It is always best to complete the repairs and sell the car in good condition to avoid legal problems down the line.
Does a used car need a Maryland safety inspection when I buy it from a private seller?
In order to register your vehicle in your name, you must pass the MD safety inspection. This is true even when buying from a private seller. Even if the seller just had the car inspected, you will still need to complete your own to register your vehicle.
Can I sell a used vehicle in Maryland if it won’t pass inspection or emissions?
There are no legal requirements for a car to pass inspection or emissions in order to be sold in Maryland. However, buyers should be aware that their car must pass inspection and emissions in order to be registered. A car that does not pass inspections or emissions will not legally be allowed on the road, and all repairs will fall to the new owner. Sellers can sell their car as-is.
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.
