San Jose Auto Repair

Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection in San Jose, CA

When it comes to vehicle safety, ensuring that your car’s essential systems are functioning correctly is a top priority. At Dhillon Motorsports Tire and Auto, we are one of the few certified auto repair shops in California authorized by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) to perform Vehicle Safety Systems Inspections, formerly known as Brake and Lamp Inspections.

Whether you need this inspection to restore a salvaged vehicle, complete a DMV requirement, or simply ensure your brakes, lights, and various other safety systems are in top shape, our team is here to make your life a little easier. Since 2004, we’ve been the trusted choice for motorists in San Jose, Willow Glen, and beyond, offering full-service auto repair for most makes and models, including hybrids and European imports.

What Is a Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection

A Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection is a state-regulated procedure designed to confirm that a car’s essential safety components meet California’s road safety standards. This inspection ensures that:

• Braking systems operate correctly and provide adequate stopping power.
• Lighting and electrical systems function properly, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and warning indicators.
• Steering and suspension components are intact and provide proper handling and power steering is free of leaks.
• Other essential safety components, such as reflectors and emergency lights, meet state requirements.
• Airbag lights and deployment are checked to ensure your vehicle's airbags function as required.
• Tires are properly installed, free of damage, and not bald.
• Frames and body are inspected to confirm structural integrity and safety.
• Car alignment is checked, and a road test assesses handling and drivability.
• Seat belts, child latch systems, and seats are inspected.

This inspection is commonly required by the DMV for vehicles that:

• Have been deemed a salvage title and are being re-registered.
• Have had significant repairs following an accident.
• Have been issued a fix-it ticket for safety-related issues.

Because this is a specialized certification, very few shops in San Jose are licensed to perform this inspection—but Dhillon Motorsports Tire and Auto is one of them.

Safety Systems Inspections in San Jose

Your vehicle’s brakes, lights, and safety systems need to be in good shape to help in preventing accidents. A properly functioning braking system can mean the difference between avoiding an accident and a potential collision. Similarly, working lights ensure that other drivers see your vehicle in low-visibility conditions, which minimizes the risk of accidents.

At Dhillon Motorsports Tire and Auto in San Jose, CA, we don’t just perform the inspection—we also provide any necessary repairs to help your vehicle pass and stay safe on the road.

What to Expect During a CA Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection

When you bring your car to Dhillon Motorsports Tire and Auto, we’ll conduct a thorough, state-certified inspection, checking:

Braking System – We examine brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, and ABS functionality to ensure proper stopping power.

Lighting System – We inspect and test headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, hazard lights, reverse lights, and dashboard indicators. For instance, air bag lights, traction control lights, ABS light, brake lights, and TPMS lights should not be present. If they are, we can work towards getting them the right repairs to reset.

Steering & Suspension – We check for worn-out components that could affect your ability to control your vehicle. The power steering fluid should not be leaking.

Tires - We check tires, tread depth, and overall condition to ensure safety and compliance.

Airbag & Computer System Check – We perform a diagnostic scan to check for airbag lights, traction control light, ABS, brake light, and TPMS light to ensure all safety warning systems are functioning correctly.

Seat Belt & Child Safety Systems – We confirm that seat belts, child latch systems, and seats are working properly to keep all passengers secure.

Frame & Body Check – We inspect the vehicle’s structural integrity to ensure it meets safety standards.

Road Test – We conduct a test drive to assess handling, alignment, and overall drivability.

The inspection itself usually takes approximately 2 hours (or sometimes longer) depending on the condition of your vehicle. If everything checks out, we issue the certificate needed for your DMV paperwork. We also offer smog checks to help complete the other part of the state requirement. If repairs are required to pass either test, we’ll walk you through the next steps to get your vehicle up to standard.

Dhillon Motorsports Tire and Auto ensures quick turnaround times to get you back on the road faster. We are proud to be an inspection station that also provides full-service auto repair, meaning we handle any necessary fixes on-site. As a NAPA AutoCare Center, we are pleased to provide a NAPA-backed warranty for added peace of mind.

Safety Systems Inspections Near Me

If you need a Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection in San Jose or surrounding areas, trust Dhillon Motorsports Tire and Auto for superior service. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can reach out to us to schedule an appointment.