Every year, thousands of motorists come out of the technical inspection with a re-inspection to schedule. A mechanic then details the essential checks before making an appointment and avoiding costs.
Technical inspection is not a lottery. The points checked are known, the criteria precise and unpleasant surprises, in many cases, avoidable. However, many vehicles are failed for basic defects that could have been corrected in a few minutes. In L’Haÿ-les-Roses, Michael Mathieu, from the Top Garage M Perf garage, sees these errors all year round and notes that the same omissions keep recurring.
In his workshop, the observation is clear. “In fact there are lots of little things to check but here are the most obvious and accessible to all”he explains. Before even mentioning costly repairs or technical parts, he insists on visual and functional checks that everyone can carry out at home, without specific equipment. The idea is not to replace the professional, but to avoid a second visit for an obvious detail.
The first point concerns lighting. Too many motorists show up with a faulty bulb without realizing it. “It is important to check the complete lighting, including the brake lights and reversing lights. To do this, the engine must be stopped, with the ignition on”specifies Michael Mathieu. It’s not just the low beam or main beam, but all exterior lighting. As for brake lights, these should be checked by having someone press the brake pedal while looking at the rear of the vehicle. A burnt out bulb is enough to cause a second inspection.
Tires are another common reason for refusal. Their condition is carefully observed. “Between the grooves of the tires, there is a pin which serves as an indicator. If the structure of the tire is flush with this pin, the tires must be changed”, explains the mechanic. Beyond wear and tear, the general appearance also matters. “Cracks in a tire can also be the subject of a second inspection”, he adds. Visible cracks on the sidewalls or tread may indicate advanced aging of the tire, even if the depth still appears correct.
Another point often underestimated according to the specialist: the functioning of seat belts. Each belt must roll up correctly, lock easily and have no tears. A blocked mechanism or damaged strap is immediately reported. Here again, a simple manual test is enough: pull the belt, check that it returns to its place and that it locks during a sudden movement. Finally, “the oil level should also be checked”, underlines Michael Mathieu. A level that is too low can alert the controller, especially if it is accompanied by a light on the dashboard. Before the appointment, check the gauge.
The experts therefore insist: “All of these defects mentioned rarely pass technical inspection”. Checking them does not replace regular maintenance, but limits unpleasant surprises. Because, no, the most frequently penalized failures do not always involve major breakdowns. Thus, a simple prior check may be enough to avoid a second inspection.
