What is a safety inspection?
What is a safety inspection?The Ontario Safety inspection program has been a core function of Radman for multiple decades. There have been some changes over the years, and the requirements remain consistent to the original intentions. A licensed auto mechanic must conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle to ensure that it meets specific safety guidelines outlined by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO). The inspection may be overseen by the MTO. This inspection is to confirm that the vehicle conforms to the basic safety requirements to safely operate on public roads. Although not directly related, you may also want to check for recalls.
When is a safety inspection required?
If you are:
If you have a vehicle that is unplated or not classified as fit for the road, you will also require a one. |  |
What is checked?
The evolution of the safety inspection has seen many items added that were not previously necessary. These additional checks are to ensure that the vehicle is safe for Ontario highways, and will not require any major repairs. Although there is no way to predict new problems from arising.
Here are the categories identified by the MTO:
– Accelerator pedal
– Exhaust system
– Powertrain (incl. DEF system if present)
- Driveshaft and differential
- Clutch / clutch pedal (if present)
- Engine / transmission mount
- Engine startup / shutdown
- Gear shifter / selector
- Engine or accessory drive belt
- Electric or hybrid powertrain
– Gas or Diesel fuel system
– Suspension
– Brake System
– Steering system
– Instruments / Accessories
- Horn
- Speedometer
- Odometer
- Wiper / wiper washer
- Heating / defroster
– Vehicle exterior lighting
– Electrical system
- visual wiring
- battery
– Hood / Trunk latching
– Body / Structural
- All glass and tint
- Mirrors
- Seatbelts
– Tires / wheels
– Front end inspection
– Trailer hitch
– Road Test
At the conclusion of your safety inspection, you will receive a safety certificate if all criteria are met, along with a vehicle inspection report that shows the various areas evaluated. The MTO has detailed guidelines for all the items to be checked, they can be found here.
How long is the certificate valid?
A safety inspection standards certificate is valid for 36 calendar days after the inspection.
What if my car doesn’t pass?
If your vehicle doesn’t pass the safety inspection, it is necessary to repair the outstanding identified issues. All areas of concern, along with required and recommended repairs, will be clearly defined on an inspection report. If these repairs are not carried out by the shop that conducted the safety, there may be additional charges to confirm the repairs have been correctly completed. Any issue can be corrected and we will do our best to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
What happens after my car passes?
If your vehicle satisfies all the items required by the MTO, you will receive 2 copies of the safety certificate. You can take this document to Service Ontario or the ride-sharing service requesting it. The safety certificate is only good for the vehicle that was inspected.
How much does a safety inspection cost?
It is $150 plus tax for a safety certification, which includes the inspection and the safety certificate upon passing.
Choosing Radman
The Radman experience will keep you coming back as most of our customers have for generations. Our safety inspection is a perfect introduction to a “new to you” car.
- Honesty. We will clearly always define what is required and what is recommended.
- Experience. Understanding the problem is only half of it, we repair some items without replacing them
- Thorough. Being thorough and helpful is our trademark. This will ensure you are getting a solid vehicle or will be aware of the issues.
- Safety. Our goal is to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive and you are aware of any issues.
- Convenience. We do everything we can to get you back on the road right away. Ask about our Loaner Program.
If you’ve been here, you don’t need to be convinced. If this is your first experience with Radman, you’ll be glad with your choice.