Car ownership comes with a lot of responsibilities especially in Singapore. From possessing the right certifications to having valid taxes, owners need to ensure that they fulfil all the mandatory requirements before taking their vehicles on the road.
To ensure vehicles are in proper working conditions, one of the most important aspects of car ownership is car inspections. It’s a standard procedure in Singapore, one which all car owners have to go through.
Car inspections can be a hassle but they are necessary nonetheless. Here’s everything you need to know about getting a car inspection in Singapore and why they are crucial for every car owner.
What Is a Car Inspection?
A car inspection is the process of ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy. The process involves identifying and rectifying any potential defects that may compromise your vehicle’s performance.
It’s a procedure that all Singapore registered cars will have to go through as it minimises the chances of malfunctioning and reduces the risk of accidents. The requirement was set out by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) as a way to maintain safety standards on Singapore roads.
How Often Are Car Inspections Required?
All vehicles must undergo inspections periodically but it also depends on the type of vehicle you own. Refer to the table below (original source, LTA):
| Type of Vehicle | Age of Vehicle | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 3 years | 3 to 10 years | > 10 years | |
|
Motorcycle/Scooter |
Nil |
Annually |
Annually |
|
Car |
Nil |
Every 2 years |
Annually |
|
Tuition Car |
Annually |
Annually |
Annually |
|
Taxi* |
6-monthly |
6-monthly |
N.A. |
|
Chauffeured Private Hire Car^ |
Annually |
Annually |
Annually |
|
Omnibus* |
6-monthly |
6-monthly |
6-monthly |
|
All Other Buses* |
Annually |
Annually |
6-monthly |
|
Goods Vehicle |
Annually |
Annually |
6-monthly |
|
Trailer |
Annually |
Annually |
Annually |
Essentially, newly purchased cars and motorcycles are exempted from inspections for the first three years whereas other vehicles are required to go through an annual or 6 month inspection within the first year of purchase.
There are also special requirements for taxis and buses that install compressed natural gas (CNG) or bi-fuel CNG systems where they must have their systems checked every 3 months.
Where Can You Get Your Car Inspected?
Vehicle inspection in Singapore can only be done by LTA Authorised Inspection Centres (AIC) as they have the necessary equipment and technicians to carry out inspections. There are several inspection centres throughout Singapore, both private and government owned.
Refer to the table below (Original source, LTA):
| Inspection Centres |
|---|
| JIC Inspection Services Pte Ltd (Ang Mo Kio) 21 Ang Mo Kio Street 63 Singapore 569118 Tel: 6484 7370 |
| JIC Inspection Services Pte Ltd (Pioneer) 53 Pioneer Road Singapore 628505 Tel: 6863 9639 |
| STA Inspection Pte Ltd (Boon Lay) 249 Jalan Boon Lay Singapore 619523 Tel: 6261 6178 |
| STA Inspection Pte Ltd (Sin Ming) 302 Sin Ming Road Singapore 575627 Tel: 6452 1398 |
| VICOM Inspection Centre Pte Ltd (Bukit Batok) 511 Bukit Batok Street 23 Singapore 659545 Tel : 6458 4555 |
| VICOM Inspection Centre Pte Ltd (Changi) 20 Changi North Crescent Singapore 499613 Tel : 6458 4555 |
| VICOM Inspection Centre Pte Ltd (Kaki Bukit) 23 Kaki Bukit Avenue 4 Singapore 415933 Tel : 6458 4555 |
| VICOM Inspection Centre Pte Ltd (Sin Ming) 385 Sin Ming Drive Singapore 575718 Tel : 6458 4555 |
| VICOM Inspection Centre Pte Ltd (Yishun) 501 Yishun Industrial Park A Singapore 768732 Tel : 6458 4555 |
The Cost of Car Inspection
The cost of inspection is standardised across all 3 centres but be sure to check the full pricing lists for a clearer picture; JIC, STA, VICOM. The fees are also inclusive of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and all payment methods should be accepted across these 3 centres.
Nonetheless, vehicles that fail their inspection are required to go for a reinspection where they will be charged half the cost of the first inspection fee. There will be no added cost however if the rectifications and reinspection can be made within the same day.
What Is Involved in a Car Inspection?
Various aspects of your vehicle will be examined through the inspection process. In a nutshell, a vehicle inspection covers 7 main elements; wheel system, chassis frame, steering system, external body, propulsion, braking system and visual system.
Refer to the table below (Original source, LTA):
|
Inspection checklist |
|
|---|---|
|
Structural integrity |
The condition of the core structure of the chassis frame |
|
Wheel system |
The operating condition of the tyres, suspension, shock absorber, wheel bearing, and the alignment of wheels |
|
Braking system |
The braking efficiency of both service and parking brakes |
|
Steering system |
The vehicle’s drive shafts and steering system which would affect the vehicle’s directional stability |
|
Condition of the vehicle’s body |
The vehicle’s body, seat belts, windscreen, door latch and hinges, and other key components |
|
Visual & Indication system |
Vehicle’s headlamps, reflectors, rear view mirror, direction indicators, windscreen wipers, horn, etc |
|
Propulsion system |
The vehicle’s exhaust system, to ensure that the emissions and noise levels meet the prevailing standards set by the National Environment Agency |
The process shouldn’t take too long but the duration will differ depending on your vehicle type. The inspection will also include a thorough search for illegal modifications and you will be subjected to an Enhanced Rectification Regime (EIR) if any are found.
After the vehicle inspection is complete, the centre will issue a report detailing the findings. If any issues are identified, you’ll be required to make the necessary repairs and replacements before going for a reinspection.
Conclusion
A vehicle inspection is a vital part of car ownership in Singapore and although it may be a burden, it ensures the overall safety of your vehicle and the people around you.
Car inspections will help maintain road safety standards, reduce the risk of accidents and conserve the reliability of your car. Ultimately, car owners will contribute to creating a safer environment in Singapore and not to mention avoid potential legal issues and penalties.
So don’t forget to schedule your inspections when time is due and happy driving!
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