Category: Resource

We all know the dreaded feeling: you notice something feels astray in your vehicle’s performance. You look down and notice a disquieting warning light on your dashboard. Or maybe your vehicle is driving fine when you notice your dashboard light, leaving you anticipating an endless list of possible vehicle issues. 

Sometimes, these service needs are straightforward. Other times, they leave you facing far more questions than answers. Worse than the feeling of seeing a light come on in your dashboard is not knowing what is causing it. Thankfully, the experts at Chapel Hill Tire can help. We offer professional, in-depth diagnostic services designed to find solutions to all of your car troubles. Here is a look at in-depth diagnostic visits and why they are important for accurate vehicle repair. 

Free Vehicle Diagnostics – Are They Really Free?

OBD (On-Board Diagnostic) system is a network of sensors that monitors your vehicle activity and reports any issues through your dashboard. Once a dashboard light comes on, an expert can connect to your OBD system for the report code. For times when the needed service is overtly apparent, this process works well. However, some vehicle issues require a closer look under the hood. When you are facing a more complicated issue, “free” car diagnostic tests can lead you on a wild goose chase—again, leaving you with more questions than answers. You may even find yourself facing multiple potential issues and guessing at which one is causing your car troubles. 

Finding the “Why” Behind Vehicle Issues

“What is causing my car troubles?” This question can consume a driver’s peace of mind. In cases of complex vehicle problems, OBD codes give you (and your mechanics) only a vague idea of your car issues. While your OBD test might point you in the direction of your vehicle problem, this can leave you addressing the symptoms of car troubles rather than the source of car troubles. 

Professional diagnostic services instead focus on getting to the bottom of why that issue is occurring—this helps comprehensively support your vehicle health and get the repairs right the first time. 

What are In-Depth Vehicle Diagnostics?

In-depth diagnostic work is a service designed to support the accurate identification and repair of your car troubles. To get to the bottom of vehicle issues, a mechanic needs to spend time inspecting the vehicle, testing various parts, and exploring all of the potential sources of these problems. Once they have discovered the true source of your car issue, they will work with you to create a repair plan. 

How Can In-Depth Diagnostics Help You Save Money?

As you might have guessed, getting your repair done correctly the first time can help you save money. While it might be cheaper short-term to run with “free” diagnostic leads, expert diagnostics can save you long-term. By investing in this service, you can lower your overall costs on several facets of your repair:

• Saving on Vehicle Parts: A “free” diagnostic test will tell you that a part of your vehicle—such as the transmission—is experiencing issues. However, this may be triggered by old transmission fluid, a sensor issue, or another simple fix. Rather than requiring you to spend $6,000 on a new transmission, in-depth diagnostics may help your mechanic discover a simple and affordable repair. You may also find yourself replacing parts that your OBD test suggests are creating issues, while the source of the problem truly lies elsewhere. 
• Avoiding Recurring Car Issues: If your OBD code diagnostic leads to a poorly-calculated service repair, you could end up experiencing the same problem over and over again. This is not only an inconvenience, but it also will cost you frequent service visits. Depending on the nature of your problem, you may also incur repeated towing fees.
• Preventing the Spread of Vehicle Problems: Your vehicle is a network of systems that each rely on the other for proper functioning. One issue can interrupt the whole system, creating new problems when operating under this stress and dysfunction. By finding and fixing the source of your vehicle issue, you can keep the problem contained and save money on preventable issues.

These cost-saving benefits are in addition to the time, safety, convenience, and peace-of-mind you can enjoy with trusted, well-informed service. 

Chapel Hill Tire In-Depth Diagnostics

Where can you find reliable, in-depth vehicle diagnostics? At all eight Chapel Hill Tire locations—including our mechanics in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro! The experts at Chapel Hill Tire are here to help you when you are experiencing unknown, complicated, or uncertain vehicle issues. With our expansive service offerings, we will help you with your repair once we have diagnosed the true source of your car troubles.  You can get the peace of mind and trusted repair that you deserve when you bring your vehicle to Chapel Hill Tire. Make your diagnostics appointment with our local mechanics to get started today!

As the temperatures continue to drop, your vehicle will begin to feel the effects of colder seasons. Many drivers use the early fall to prepare their vehicles for the impacts of colder weather. Here is a closer look at how the cold weather affects your vehicle and how you can prepare for lower temperatures.

Tire Inflation and Cold Weather

You might notice your tire pressure becomes low around this time each year. As the temperature drops, the air inside of your tires can compress. This can impact your fuel economy and leave your tires vulnerable. How can you prepare? You can protect your tires from the cool weather by regularly checking your tires’ pressure and inflating them when needed (or get them checked inflated for free during your Chapel Hill Tire oil change). Read our full guide to tire pressure here. 

Cold Weather and Dead Car Batteries

During colder seasons, many drivers experience dead batteries or battery issues. The cold weather interrupts the chemical reactions that your battery relies on. Newer batteries can handle the cold, but older batteries may begin to struggle. How can you prepare? If your battery is older, you can prepare for the cold weather by getting it checked, serviced, and replaced when needed. You can also help protect your battery by parking in your garage at night. 

Shorter Days and Vehicle Light Services

The fall brings unique driving challenges. As we begin to see shorter days, you will need to rely more heavily on your vehicle lights. If they are dimming or you have a dead bulb, you could leave yourself vulnerable on the road. How can you prepare? It is essential that you regularly check your vehicle lights and get ineffective bulbs replaced. This can help keep you (and others) safe, prevent you from getting a ticket, and keep you passing your vehicle inspections. Windshield wiper replacements can also help promote your visibility on the road. Finally, you might consider headlight restoration services if your lenses have become foggy or oxidized. Read our full guide to vehicle lights here.

Oil Changes and Cold Weather

Oil changes are essential no matter the time of year. However, the cold weather can thicken your oil, making it harder to circulate throughout your engine. This can strain your engine and intensify the strain on your battery. As you may have guessed, these oil issues are worsened when your oil is old, contaminated, and due for a replacement. How can you prepare? To keep your engine protected, make sure you are up-to-date on your oil change routine. 

Tire Services for Safe Driving

The later we get into the season, the more likely it is that we see overnight freezing, the occasional snow day, and ice on the roads. One of the most essential safety measures during inclement weather is healthy tires. Your tire tread works to grip the road, which is important year-round. However, inclement weather can worsen the impacts of worn tires. How can you prepare? Before the temperatures become severe, check your tire tread depth to ensure that it is still at safe levels. If the tread is worn down to the wear indicator bars (often at 2/32” of tread), you should get a tire replacement. You can also make sure you get any tire services—wheel alignment, rim repair, tire rotation, and balancing—to keep your tires protected. 

Staying Safe with Brake Services

Much like your tires, your brakes are a key component to keep you safe—both year-round and during the colder months. Regular brake pad replacements keep your vehicle safely slowing down and stopping. During inclement weather, you need your brakes to be effective and responsive. How can you prepare? Before the weather becomes severe, you should check that your brakes are in good condition and get your brakes serviced if needed. 

Maintenance Flushes for the Fall Season

Your vehicle relies on a wide variety of liquid solutions to keep it running safely and efficiently. The cold weather disproportionately impacts liquid solutions, as their components may be susceptible to freezing. How can you prepare? Make sure that you are up-to-date on all of your maintenance flushes. Here is a brief overview of maintenance flushes and the needed routine services based on vehicle mileage. 

Chapel Hill Tire Local Car Care

Once you have passed these checks—you are all set and your car is ready to take on the fall weather and the adventures it brings. If you need a tune-up or are due for a service, the mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here to help you. Make an appointment at one of our 8 locations throughout the Triangle—including Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Raleigh, and Durham—to get started today!

As the weather cools down, your tire pressure may drop with the temperatures. You might find yourself needing tire inflation. The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here to help! Here is what you need to know about low tire pressure.

Tire Pressure Overview

Tire pressure is measured in PSI (pound-force per square inch). Common tire pressures range from 32 to 35 PSI, but this can depend on your vehicle type, tire features, tire brand, and the temperature outside. When looking for your recommended tire pressure, you may not find this information listed in your owner’s manual. Instead, tire pressure recommendations are often listed on a sticker inside of the driver’s side door frame. 

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Manual Tire Pressure Checks

To check your tire pressure, you will need a gauge. If you do not already have one, these tools are inexpensive and helpful to keep in your car. For an accurate read of your tire pressure, it is recommended that you wait 3 hours after driving before completing the tire pressure check. The friction of your wheels turning can impact your tire temperature and pressure. 

Once you are ready to get started, consult the tire information sticker inside of your door frame to determine what your tire pressure should be. Next, connect the gauge firmly to each of your tire’s valve stems. You will see the gauge dial rise. Once it has reached a steady PSI reading, that is your tire pressure. 

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Automatic Vehicle Tire Pressure Systems

Most vehicles have automatic tire pressure systems that will warn you when your tire pressure becomes low. Older vehicles do this by examining your tire turn speed. Full tires create a larger rotation than deflated tires. Your vehicle senses when one tire is turning more quickly than the others and alerts you that your tire pressure is low. 

Newer vehicles have advanced tire pressure systems that gauge and monitor tire PSI. It is best not to rely entirely on either of these systems, as they are not immune to glitches or inaccuracies. 

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Free Professional Tire Pressure Checks

Perhaps the best way to accurately read your tire pressure levels is with a professional check. Overfilled tires are just as harmful as underfilled tires. A professional technician knows how to achieve this essential balance. Mechanics have professional-grade gauges and the expertise to comprehensively examine your tire health. Best of all, leading mechanics may provide this service for free. For example, the experts at Chapel Hill Tire automatically check tire pressure during each oil change visit. If you are low, our experts will also inflate your tires for free. 

If your tires are protected under our Road Hazard Protect plan, you can get free tire refills (among other tire services) at any time. 

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What Causes Deflated Tires?

Low tire pressure is one frequent issue with multiple possible sources. Here is a look at some of the common reasons why your tires may deflate:

Low Pressure Problem 1: Cold Weather and Tire Pressure

During the fall and winter seasons, many drivers begin to find their tire pressure low. The cold weather can cause your tire pressure to lower by 1-2 PSI for every 10 degrees the temperature drops. This is the one tire pressure change that is not caused by air loss. Rather, the air inside of your tire condenses when it is cold and expands when it is hot. This makes the fall and winter seasons popular times for tire pressure checks. 

Low Pressure Problem 2: Nails or Punctures in Tires

Damaged tires are a driver’s worst fears when tire pressure becomes low. Nails and other tire hazards can get kicked up by other drivers on the road, puncturing your tires and releasing some of the pressure. In this case, your tire will need to be patched so it can maintain proper air levels. 

Low Pressure Problem 3: Potholes and Tire Pressure

Your tires are designed to absorb the impact of bumps on the road. However, frequent road inconsistencies and severe potholes will create a greater tire impact. As your tire absorbs this extra pressure, it may release some of its air. 

Low Pressure Problem 4: Bent Rims and Lowered Tire Pressure

A bent rim or wheel can disrupt the seal that holds your tire’s air in, leading to low tire pressure or frequent flats. 

Low Pressure Problem 5: Leaking Schrader Valve

Have you ever wondered what those small caps on your tire valve stems do? They protect your Schrader valve from dirt, water, dust, and other contaminants. If contamination gets bad enough, the tire Schrader valve can begin to gradually leak air. 

Low Pressure Problem 6: Normal Tire Wear

Over time, tires gradually release air, even when engaging in your standard driving patterns. Your tires will naturally lose about 1 PSI every month. This is why frequent tire pressure checks are essential. Ideally, you should check them every 1-3 months. 

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Importance of Full Tires

Low tire pressure is more than just an irritating warning light on your dashboard. It can have several immediate impacts on you, your car, and your wallet:

Lower Fuel Economy and Low Tire Pressure

Have you ever tried to ride a bike with deflated tires? It is much more challenging compared to a bike with full tire pressure. The same logistics can be applied to your vehicle. It has to work harder to run on deflated tires, meaning lower fuel efficiency, more vehicle emissions, and more money spent at the pump. 

Vehicle Handling and Safety Concerns

Perhaps most importantly, low tire pressure can impact your vehicle handling. The friction between your tires and the road is responsible for vehicle responsiveness. When your tires are running on low pressure, this grip becomes compromised, delaying your braking and making steering less responsive. It can also leave you more vulnerable to flat tires and other issues on the road. 

Failed Inspection from Tire Issues

Between low tire pressure and the issues it creates, you can face a wide variety of challenges on the road. Tire structural issues, poor vehicle handling, and any other safety concerns can cause you to fail your annual safety inspection. The lowered fuel economy from deflated tires can cause you to fail your emissions inspection. 

Tire Damage with Low Pressure

The air inside of your tires maintains your tire’s structural integrity. Poorly-inflated tires will increase the surface area of your tire against the road, causing sidewall damage. This can also create flat tires, bent rims, and other costly issues. 

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Chapel Hill Tire | Tire Service Near Me

Whether it is a simple tire pressure check or as complex as a rim repair, Chapel Hill Tire is here for all of your tire service needs. Our local mechanics proudly serve drivers throughout the Triangle from our locations in Raleigh, Durham, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill. Make an appointment with our mechanics or give us a call to get started today!

The US used tire market is fairly unregulated, which can have drivers losing money on dishonest sales. Worse even, these trades can quickly lead to accidents if a driver is left with unsafe tires. At Chapel Hill Tire, we prioritize safety when it comes to our customers. As your local tire experts, we wanted to give you a look at the dangers of buying used tires. 

Used Tires: Worn Tread and Tire Inconsistencies

Tires need frequent rotations because the tread wears consistently. This is impacted by your vehicle and your driving patterns. When you place a used set of tires on your vehicle, you are inheriting the previous driver’s wear patterns and the tread inconsistencies they produced. Tread is at the core of tire functionality and safety, making this a core consideration for the tires you choose.

Tire Age: Are Used Tires Safe?

Even when you find a used set of tires that have thick tread, there is a chance that they have aged. The older your tires are, the more dangerous they become. Once a tire reaches 10+ years old, it is deemed completely unsafe, even if it has never been driven. This is because the rubber undergoes a process called thermo-oxidative aging. Oxygen exposure ages the rubber, causing the tires to become unstable. However, these tires often still look sturdy and new, making it easy to deceive drivers. According to the US Department of Transportation, there were 738 fatalities in 2017 alone caused by tire-related incidents. The used tire market is full of shops circulating unused tires that are too old to be reliable. 

Tire Warranty: Ensuring You Get a Good Deal

Much like new cars, many new tires come protected by a manufacturer’s warranty. This will prevent you from getting a “lemon” that is not built properly. When you buy your tire used, this warranty becomes void because the manufacturers are no longer tied to the sale. 

Tire Protection Plan: Keeping Your Wallet Protected

For all other tire issues, many buyers opt for a tire protection plan. When you buy used tires from a lot (or even new tires from dealerships or distributors), you can miss out on this tire security. 

For example, the Road Hazard Tire Protection plan from Chapel Hill Tire includes 3-years of full repair and replacement for any issue that your tires may encounter. This can save you money on repairs, tire services, and replacements. 

Tire History: Are Used Tires Reliable?

Simply put, you do not know where an old tire has been. The unregulated US tire industry can leave customers vulnerable to a wide variety of potential issues and bad deals. You might buy a used set of tires just to experience frequent and costly problems. This can leave drivers paying more long-term while missing out on the other benefits of new tires. 

If you encounter an issue with your used tires, you can fail your safety inspection, require a tire service, or find yourself quickly needing a tire replacement. 

Chapel Hill Tire | New Tires Near Me

Instead of falling victim to a risky used tire deal, visit Chapel Hill Tire. We offer a Price Beat Guarantee, coupons, and deals to ensure you get the lowest possible price on your new tires. Use our Tire Finder tool to shop online or visit one of our 8 Triangle-area locations (between Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Durham, and Carrboro) to get started today!

The COVID-19 pandemic has made this year challenging, but many businesses are finding a way to stay safe while providing customers with the services they need. Chapel Hill Tire has introduced a few creative solutions recently to support our customers, including our pick-up/delivery option. Here is a closer look at pick-up and delivery mechanic services and when they may be right for you!

How Does Pick-Up and Delivery Vehicle Service Work?

Chapel Hill Tire has integrated our pick-up/delivery services directly into our scheduling tool. Simply select “pick-up and delivery” when making an appointment, and you will get a call confirming that mechanics are available during this time. If there is a scheduling conflict that may prevent pick-up options, they will find a different time that works for you. 

During your pick-up time, you just need to leave your keys in your unlocked vehicle. Our professionals shuttle to your home or work and bring your car back to the shop. Using careful sanitation measures—such as latex gloves, steering wheel covers, disinfectant wipes, and more—our experts work to keep your vehicle safe. We will keep you updated by text during your service visit. Once it has been completed, you can pay by text for a completely contactless transaction. Finally, the professionals at Chapel Hill Tire will return your fully-serviced vehicle to you. You can read our full pick-up and delivery guidelines here.

Contactless Service for Uncertain Times

Chapel Hill Tire has made our pick-up/delivery service FREE during the COVID-19 pandemic to support clients who may not feel safe or comfortable visiting the shop. This service ensures that customers do not have to compromise their safety to get the quarantine car care they need. We also offer contactless curbside service for drivers looking for another way to stay safe during mechanic visits. 

Pick-up/Delivery When You Feel Hesitant Driving

If you feel uncertain about driving a car that is due for service, pick-up and delivery service options are perfect for you. While our experts cannot pick up unsafe or inoperable cars, we can address looming service concerns. This gives you the peace of mind knowing that your vehicle will be fully serviced the next time you get behind the wheel. 

Getting the Service You Need, Even During Busy Days

Pick-up and delivery vehicle service is perfect for those who have a jam-packed schedule. Car problems do not wait to strike until you have time to take care of them. Whether you are busy with work, school, family, or all of the above, sometimes your car issues are not at the top of your priority list. You can get the service you need no matter what your schedule looks like when you choose vehicle pick-up and delivery. 

A Look at When Pick-Up Options Might Not Help

While a mechanic will always work to give you a hand, there are certain issues that they may not be able to help you with during pick-up/delivery service. For example, if your car is not operable, they will not be able to get it to the shop. Unfortunately, our mechanics do not offer towing services. The experts at Chapel Hill Tire will talk with you when confirming your appointment to ensure that your vehicle issue can be serviced with our pick-up/delivery offerings.

Chapel Hill Tire Pick-Up and Delivery Service

We take safety seriously here at Chapel Hill Tire, and we are working hard to meet the needs of all of our customers during this uncertain time. Chapel Hill Tire proudly offers contactless services at all eight of our Triangle-area locations, including those in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Durham, and Carrboro. Make an appointment with the experts at Chapel Hill Tire for your pick-up and delivery vehicle service today.

Arguably, one of the easiest ways to irritate other drivers on the road is to forget your turn signal. Rightfully so, as this can create safety hazards or simply inconvenience other drivers. Perhaps the most frustrating part about poor turn signaling is that it is not always the driver’s fault. Have you ever heard honking on the road despite careful driving? Or found that your turn signal is making unusual noises? Perhaps you find that drivers are frequently not letting you over when you signal a lane change? These are all signs that you may be due for a turn signal bulb replacement. All eight Chapel Hill Tire mechanic locations offer bulb replacement services. Here is a quick look at everything you need to know about your turn signal lights. 

The Basics: Turn Signal Bulb Overview

Most turn signal lighting systems include four separate bulbs: front left, front right, rear left, and rear right turn signals. These are often placed within the headlight/taillight systems. Many newer vehicles also feature two additional turn signal lights: one placed on each of the side rearview mirrors. In North Carolina, your front turn signal lights must be white or amber in color, and your rear turn signal lights must be red or amber in color. 

Front and Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement

For your safety on the road and a pass on your annual inspection, all of your turn signal bulbs must be bright and effective. Thankfully, the vehicle bulb replacement process is easy for professionals. A mechanic will often detach your headlight or taillight lens, carefully remove your old bulb, and install a new turn signal bulb. This is a quick and affordable repair that restores functioning to most turn signals. 

If this does not repair your turn signals, there are a couple of different possible issues you may be experiencing. First, you may have an electrical or wiring problem. These issues are rare, but they can be dangerous. This makes professional diagnostics and service essential. More commonly, this may be an issue with foggy and oxidized lenses. The sun’s UV rays can discolor the acrylic on your headlights and taillights, which can make it difficult to see properly-working bulbs. Headlight restoration services may be needed to address these additional concerns. 

Side Mirror Turn Signal Bulb Replacement

Side mirror turn signal lights are often powered by small LED bulbs, which use very little energy and have a long lifespan. They are much less likely to need replacement than traditional turn signal bulbs. The replacement processes vary based on the type of installation you have. For some vehicles, a small LED bulb replacement is a quick and easy fix. For other vehicles/systems, you may need to replace the entire turn signal attachment. Thankfully, rearview turn signals are an added convenience, meaning that they are unlikely to impact your vehicle safety or annual safety inspection. 

How Do I Know If My Turn Signal Bulb is Dead?

The easiest way to avoid turn signal issues is to regularly inspect your bulbs. Luckily, burnt out turn signal bulbs are easy to detect. First, you simply need to park your car in a safe location. Next, turn on your emergency lights and circle your vehicle to ensure that all four of the main light bulbs are bright and working properly. Make note of any bulbs that seem like they may be dimming and have them replaced before they can become a safety hazard.

Additionally, many vehicles have a safeguard that will let you know when your bulb is dead or dimming. Newer vehicles may include a dashboard warning notification. For other vehicles, you may notice that your turn signal is beeping faster or louder than usual. These are all common signs that a bulb is dead or on its way out. However, some vehicles do not include any kind of lightbulb replacement indicator. You can check your owner’s manual for more insight on the turn signal bulb notifications your vehicle includes. 

Dead Turn Signal Bulb Hazards

Whether you don’t know your bulb is burnt out or you simply haven’t had the time to get this replacement service done, a malfunctioning turn signal can create trouble on the road. First, it can limit your ability to communicate with other drivers. For example, your hazard lights will instead communicate like a turn signal when one of your bulbs is not working. This can also prevent you from effectively conveying your intentions to change lanes or turn.

Beyond the prominent safety hazards present, failure to indicate can earn you a ticket on the road. Even if you are properly engaging your turn signal, broken bulbs will prevent effective signaling. Additionally, a burnt-out turn signal bulb can earn you a failure on your annual vehicle safety inspection. 

Chapel Hill Tire Local Turn Signal Bulb Replacements

When your turn signal light goes dark, the mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here for you. You can get your turn signal bulb replaced at any of our eight Triangle-area mechanic locations, including those in Raleigh, Durham, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill. Make an appointment with the experts at your nearest Chapel Hill Tire location for a turn signal bulb replacement today!

If you are due for your annual vehicle inspection, you may be thinking about your car and trying to decide if it has any issues that will prevent it from passing. Put your mind at ease with this comprehensive vehicle inspection checklist from the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire.

Car Inspection Check 1: Headlights

Are headlights checked during an NC car inspection?

Properly functioning headlights are necessary for maintaining visibility at night and during inclement weather, as well as helping other drivers see you. Both of your headlights must be functioning and effective to help you stay safe and pass your inspection. Common issues include:

• Burnt-out bulbs
• Dim headlights
• Discolored headlight lenses
• Cracked headlights lenses

These can often be repaired with headlight restoration services or replacement bulbs.

Car Inspection Check 2: Tires

Are tires checked during an NC car inspection?

Over time, tire tread becomes worn and loses its ability to provide necessary traction on the road. Worn tire tread can result in handling and braking troubles, which worsen during inclement weather. Tire health is necessary for passing both safety and emissions inspections. Keep an eye on your wear indicator bars or manually inspect your tire tread to ensure that it is at least 2/32 of an inch tall.

Beyond just the tread depth, you can fail your inspection if your tires have any structural tire issues, including cuts that expose the cords, visible bumps, knots, or bulges. These can be caused by old tire age, extended wear and tear, or specific wheel problems (such as bent rims). If any of these issues are present, you will need new tires to pass your inspection.

Car Inspection Check 3: Turn Signals

Are turn signals checked during an NC car inspection?

Your turn signals (sometimes referred to as “directional signals” or “indicators” during inspections) are necessary for communicating your upcoming actions with other drivers on the road. Your turn signals must be fully functional and intact to pass your car inspection. This inspection process checks the turn signal lights on the front and back of your vehicle. Common issues that lead to failure include burnt-out or dim bulbs, which are easily restored with turn signal bulb replacements. 

Car Inspection Check 4: Brakes

Are brakes checked during an NC car inspection?

The ability to properly slow and stop your vehicle is key to staying safe on the road. Both your foot brake and your parking brake are checked during an NC inspection, and they both need to work properly for you to pass. One of the most common brake problems that can cause you to fail your inspection is worn brake pads. This issue can easily be repaired with proper brake service.  

Car Inspection Check 5: Exhaust System

What exhaust elements are checked during an NC car inspection?

While NC emissions inspections are relatively new, exhaust system checks have been around for years as a part of the annual inspection. This car inspection step checks for removed, broken, tampered, or disconnected exhaust system parts and emissions control devices. Depending on your vehicle, this can include your catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipe, air pump system, EGR valve, PCV valve, and oxygen sensor, among others. 

It used to be common for drivers to tamper with these devices in an attempt to improve vehicle speed and performance. This practice has become much less popular over the years, so this check will likely only cause you to fail your car inspection if an element of your exhaust system is failing. Unfortunately, it is also common for catalytic converters to be stolen and sold for the precious metals they contain. In these cases, you will need to have your catalytic converter replaced before passing your inspection.

However, if you do choose to tamper with your emissions control devices, it could earn you a $250 fine in addition to a car inspection failure. 

Car Inspection Check 6: Brake Lights and Other Accessory Lighting

Which lights are checked during an NC car inspection?

Listed as “accessory lighting” by the DMV, this component of your car inspection includes checking your brake lights, tail lights, license plate lights, reverse lights, and any other lights that may need servicing. Much like your headlights and turn signals, the most common issue here is dim or burnt-out bulbs, which can be fixed with simple bulb replacements. 

Car Inspection Check 7: Windshield Wipers

Are windshield wipers checked during an NC car inspection?

To help with visibility during inclement weather, your windshield wipers need to be working properly. The blades also need to be intact and functional without any noticeable damage to pass your inspection. The most common issue here is broken windshield wiper blades, which can be quickly and affordably replaced.  

Car Inspection Check 8: Windshield Glass

Will a cracked windshield cause me to fail my NC car inspection?

In some (but not all) cases, a cracked windshield can lead to a failed inspection in North Carolina. This is often the case if the cracked windshield obstructs the driver’s vision in a way that impacts the car’s safety. It may also cause a failed inspection if the damage impacts the proper functioning of any other vehicle safety device, such as the windshield wipers or rearview mirror mounting.

However, most windshields will pass inspection without trouble—even with knicks and cracks. Why? Windshields are made of industrial-style plexiglass. Think of a plexiglass phone screen protector. The base coat keeps the glass cohesive and prevents any inward obstruction. Contrary to popular belief, a crack in the windshield does not present the risk of glass falling inwards toward the driver, and it will still keep you safe in a car accident.

Car Inspection Check 9: Rearview Mirrors

Will a broken rearview or side mirror cause me to fail my NC car inspection?

North Carolina car inspections check both your rearview mirror and side mirrors. These mirrors must be properly in place, mounted securely, effective, easy to clean (no sharp cracks), and simple to adjust. 

Car Inspection Check 10: Horn

Is a car horn checked in an NC car inspection?

To ensure that you can communicate with other drivers on the road, your horn is checked during your annual car inspections. It must be able to be heard 200 feet ahead, and it cannot have any harsh or unusually loud sounds. The horn must also be securely mounted and safely wired. 

Car Inspection Check 11: Steering System

Is the steering wheel checked in an NC car inspection?

As you might have guessed, proper steering is essential to vehicle safety. One of the first checks here involves “free play” with your steering wheel, which is the term used to describe any extra motion needed from your steering wheel before it begins to turn your wheels. A safe steering wheel does not exceed 3-4 inches of free play (depending on the size of your wheel). Your mechanic will also check your power steering system for signs of damage. This can include power steering fluid leaks, loose/broken springs, and a loose/broken belt. 

Car Inspection Check 12: Window Tints

Will a window tint job cause me to fail my NC car inspection?

If you have had your windows tinted, they may need to be inspected to ensure that they meet the NC state guidelines. This only applies to after-factory window tinting. An expert will use a photometer to ensure that the tint has a light transmittance of more than 32% and that the light reflectance is not 20% or less. They will also ensure that the tint is properly placed and colored. Any professional tinting your windows should follow state guidelines, so this is unlikely to cause you to fail your inspection.

Motorcycle Safety Inspection

The NC safety inspection guidelines are roughly the same for all motor vehicles, including motorcycles. However, there are some minor (and intuitive) adjustments made for motorcycle inspections. For example, instead of requiring two properly functioning headlights, motorcycle inspections, naturally, only require one. 

What Happens if I Fail my Vehicle Inspection?

Unfortunately, you cannot renew your NC registration with a failed inspection. Instead, the DMV will block your registration application until your vehicle passes. Thankfully, these inspections are completed by mechanics, who happen to know a thing or two about repairs. You can have any issues serviced to ensure that you pass your inspection with flying colors.

Unlike an emissions inspection, you cannot file a waiver or become exempt from passing your safety inspection. One exception does apply to NC motor vehicles: antique vehicles (35 years or older) are not required to pass an inspection for vehicle registration.

Chapel Hill Tire Annual Vehicle Inspections

Visit your local Chapel Hill Tire location for your next vehicle inspection. Chapel Hill Tire has 10 Triangle-area locations conveniently located throughout Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Apex, Cary, and Carrboro. Our professional mechanics also often serve nearby drivers, including those in Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond.

We offer annual safety inspections as well as any vehicle service you may need to successfully pass your inspection. Our mechanics also offer emissions inspections if you find that this is required for your registration. You can make an appointment here online or give us a call today to get started!