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AUTO CARE · ABERDEEN, MD
Your next step toward the road.
Official Maryland safety inspections at our Maryland State Police–licensed inspection station in Aberdeen. Call for car and trailer inspection appointments.
CARE FOR YOUR VEHICLE
Bring your vehicle to MotorXcel at 735 W Bel Air Ave. We serve drivers from Aberdeen, Bel Air, Havre de Grace and nearby Harford County communities with clear explanations and estimates before authorized repairs.
WHAT THE INSPECTION COVERS
Maryland’s vehicle safety inspection checks whether your vehicle meets the state’s minimum safety standards. Here’s an easy-to-read overview of the Maryland State Police inspection chart, with checks applied to your vehicle type.
The inspector records vehicle details, VIN and applicable mileage, checks tire size and pressure, and evaluates braking, steering, handling, the speedometer and odometer during a required road test. Trailers are not road tested.
Brake performance, pedal operation, parking brake and warning lights are checked. Pads, shoes, drums and rotors are measured as required, along with inspection of hydraulic components, tires, wheels, fasteners and wheel bearings.
Steering wheel, column, travel and free play; shafts, couplings, power steering, suspension attachments, ball joints and related components are inspected. Required alignment and component readings follow manufacturer procedures and specifications.
Headlights, signals, hazard lamps, indicators, mirrors, glass, wipers and washers are checked as applicable. Interior checks include seat belts, seat mounting, horn, door operation and transmission safety controls.
Checks include the brake master cylinder and booster, fluid levels, belts, engine mounts, battery and wiring. Fuel, brake and steering lines and hoses are inspected for leaks, damage and unsafe conditions, along with applicable emissions equipment.
The inspection includes the frame, floor and mounting points, bumpers, fenders, fuel and exhaust systems, emissions components, drive shafts and joints. Trailer brake operation and other equipment are checked where applicable.
This overview is a starting point. The complete inspection follows COMAR 11.14 and applicable vehicle specifications; the chart’s suggested order of checks is not mandatory. Certification is issued only after the entire inspection is completed and the vehicle passes.
If repairs are needed: return to the same inspection station within 30 days and 1,000 miles of the original inspection for a reinspection of rejected items and any newly observed defects. Outside those limits, a complete inspection is required.
Emissions testing is separate: Maryland’s VEIP emissions test is done at VEIP stations, not during the safety inspection. If your vehicle fails VEIP, we can diagnose and repair the cause before your retest.
GOOD TO KNOW
MD requires a safety inspection for registration transfers and title changes. Buying or selling in MD requires a current inspection certificate.
Brakes, steering, suspension, lights, tires, windshield, wipers, horn, exhaust, and more.
45–60 minutes for most vehicles. Walk-ins welcome or call 410-425-1100.
We provide a detailed written report and can perform most required repairs on-site.
LET’S GET YOU BACK ON THE ROAD