Immediate Consequences of Failing Inspection
When your vehicle fails inspection, the station will not issue a valid sticker. Instead, you'll receive a rejection sticker and a detailed written list of all defects.
Your Timeline for Repairs and Re-Inspection
If your vehicle fails inspection, you have until the end of the following calendar month to complete repairs and obtain a passing re-inspection.
Example: If you fail on January 15, you have until February 28/29 to get re-inspected.
Can You Drive During the Repair Period?
If your previous valid sticker has not expired, you can continue driving legally until that expiration date. Once expired, limit driving to transporting the vehicle for repairs and re-inspection.
Understanding Your Repair Obligations
You are NOT required to have repairs done at the same station that performed the inspection. You can choose any repair facility.
Common Inspection Failure Categories
- Lighting: Failed bulbs, malfunctioning signals ($10-50)
- Brakes: Worn pads, damaged rotors ($150-800)
- Tires: Below 2/32" tread depth ($400-1,200 for set)
- Emissions: Check engine light, sensor issues ($100-1,500+)
The Re-Inspection Process
You can take your vehicle to any certified Pennsylvania inspection station for re-inspection—you don't have to return to the original station.
Re-Inspection Fee Requirements
If you return to the same station within 30 days, many offer free or reduced re-inspection. Going elsewhere typically requires the full fee.
Your Legal Rights and Protections
- Station must provide detailed written defect list
- You can choose where to have repairs done
- Station cannot hold your vehicle or coerce you into using their repair services