Maryland Car Inspection Checklist
Everything the MVA safety inspection checks — plus the most common reasons cars fail and how to pass the first time.
A Maryland state vehicle safety inspection is a thorough, point-by-point review of the systems that keep your vehicle safe on the road. Knowing what's on the checklist before you arrive is the easiest way to pass on the first visit.
What's Checked in a Maryland Inspection
Our certified technicians evaluate every item below against Maryland MVA standards.
Steering
Steering wheel, column, linkages, power steering, and road test.
Brakes
Pads, rotors, lines, master cylinder, and stopping distance.
Suspension
Shocks, struts, springs, wheel bearings, ball joints.
Wheels & Alignment
Camber, toe, caster, nuts, studs, lugs, and axle alignment.
Tires
Size, type, condition, and tread depth on all four corners.
Fuel System
Leak check, fuel tank, accelerator, throttle, and choke.
Exhaust System
Muffler, piping, and manifold mounting with no leaks.
Electrical System
Wiring, switches, battery cables, and horn.
Lighting
Headlights, brake lights, signals, and all added lighting.
General Safety
CV boots, safety belts, mirrors, wipers, windshield, latches, speedometer, and odometer.
Most common reasons cars fail in Maryland
- Brakes — worn pads, scored rotors, or leaking lines.
- Tires — tread below the legal limit, dry rot, or mismatched sizes.
- Lighting — burned-out bulbs, cracked lenses, or misaimed headlights.
- Windshield — cracks or chips within the wiper sweep area.
- CV boots — torn boots leaking grease.
- Exhaust — leaks, holes, or loose mounting.
- Suspension — worn ball joints, tie rods, or bushings.
How to pass your Maryland inspection the first time
A few minutes of prep can save you a return trip:
- Walk around the vehicle and confirm every light works — headlights, brake lights, turn signals, reverse, and plate light.
- Check tire tread and pressure; replace anything worn or below the legal limit.
- Inspect the windshield for cracks in the wiper area and make sure wipers clear cleanly.
- Top off fluids and clear any dashboard warning lights.
- Listen for exhaust leaks and look for fluid drips under the car.
Tip: If your vehicle does fail, you have 30 days or 1,000 miles to make repairs and return for re-inspection at the same station. See our re-inspection guide for the details.
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Ready for Your Inspection?
Schedule your Maryland state safety inspection with certified technicians who'll walk you through every result.