Imagine it’s a cold morning in Munich, and your vehicle inspection (TÜV) is approaching. The annual routine brings a hint of nervousness – will your beloved car pass the check? Fortunately, there are measures you can take to ensure your car is ready for the inspection. Let us take a look at how you can optimally prepare your used car to withstand the scrutinizing eyes of the inspector.
A Look Under the Hood
Let’s start with the heart of your vehicle – the engine. A healthy heart means a healthy car, and regular checks are crucial here. Check the oil, brake fluid, and coolant levels. A well-maintained system increases the likelihood of passing the emissions tests without issues.
A colleague recently reported about his older VW Golf, which passed the emissions tests effortlessly thanks to a timely oil change. Something as trivial as dirty oil can indeed jeopardize the entire inspection.
What to Watch Out For
- Oil Change: Check and replace if necessary
- Brake Fluid: Ensure the level is optimal
- Coolant: An underestimated fluid that is often neglected
Lighting and Electrical System
What would your car be without reliable electrics? The headlights, brake lights, and indicators must not only function but also be correctly adjusted. A dead battery or defective lights are common reasons for failing an inspection.
In a case in North Rhine-Westphalia, a non-functioning taillight prevented a young student from receiving his inspection sticker. This is easily avoidable by regularly checking and replacing all lighting elements if necessary.
Essential Checks
- Headlight Alignment: Precise adjustment is crucial
- Battery Voltage: Ensure the battery is fully charged
- Fuses: Check all fuses for functionality
Tires and Brakes – Safety First
Without a doubt, tires and brakes are the be-all and end-all of your safety on the road. The condition of your tires directly affects the driving behavior and braking power of your car. Check the tread and watch for uneven wear. The brakes should provide even and effective braking performance.
A former driving instructor recounted the plight of a student whose vehicle failed due to uneven wear on the front tires. Regular pressure checks could have prevented this.
Checklist for Tire Safety
- Tire Tread: At least 1.6 mm depth
- Air Pressure: Observe the manufacturer’s recommended values
- Brake Pads: Regularly check for wear
Interior and General Inspection
It may sound trivial, but the interior should be clean and tidy. This demonstrates care and can leave a positive impression. All controls should function flawlessly – from the windshield wipers to the air conditioning.
A friend from Hamburg points out that a well-maintained interior is often underestimated. The inspector may only take a quick glance inside, but a clean and tidy driver’s cabin contributes to the overall assessment.
Important Points in the Interior
- Cleanliness: Regular cleaning of the interior
- Controls: Check the functionality of instruments and displays
- Seat Belts: Check for tears and proper fit
Exhaust System and Environmental Aspects
In times of ever-increasing environmental regulations, a vehicle’s emissions are of utmost importance. A defective exhaust system can not only negatively impact the inspection report but also affect your health.
A case from Berlin shows how a small crack in the exhaust system led to high emission values, ultimately preventing the issuance of the sticker. A proactive visit to the workshop could have prevented this.
Ensure Environmentally Friendly Driving
- Exhaust: Regularly check for leaks or rust
- Catalytic Converter: Ensure functionality
- Emission Values: Pre-check at a workshop
Conclusion
It is the small things that can make a difference when preparing your used car for the inspection. A little love and attention to your vehicle can help you avoid unpleasant surprises. Look at your vehicle as if it were the first time, document everything you notice, and do not hesitate to seek professional help if you are unsure.
Whether in Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, or Berlin, with the right preparation, your car can pass the next inspection with flying colors. And remember, a well-maintained vehicle is not only safer and more environmentally friendly but can also fetch a better price in case of a sale.