Whether company car or pool vehicle, the main inspection is one of the mandatory appointments in the vehicle fleet. But how often do vehicles have to undergo a general inspection, what is checked and what happens if a vehicle fails? Find out everything you need to know about the main inspection here.
What is the main inspection?
Since 01.12.1951, the main inspection (HU) has been a statutory inspection of the roadworthiness and safety of motor vehicles. It is also known colloquially as the TÜV, named after the Technical Inspection Association, which used to be the only organization to carry out these tests. In the meantime, other test centres and recognized monitoring organizations such as DEKRA (Deutsche Kraftfahrzeug-Überwachungs-Verein), GTÜ (Gesellschaft für technische Überwachung) or KÜS (Kraftfahrzeug-Überwachungsorganisation freiberuflicher Kfz-Sachverständiger) are also permitted to carry out the HU. Since 2010, the exhaust emissions test has also been part of the main inspection.
What is checked during the main inspection?
Over 160 inspection points are checked during the main inspection, including
- Brakes
- Lighting
- Steering system
- Axles
- Wheels and tires
- Chassis and bodywork
- Safety equipment (seat belts, first aid kit, safety vest and warning triangle)
During the emissions test, the vehicle’s emissions values are measured to ensure that they are within the legally specified limits.
How much does the general inspection at TÜV cost?
The costs for the HU vary depending on the federal state, test center and vehicle type. For passenger cars, costs of around 100-130 euros can be expected. If the vehicle has to undergo a follow-up inspection, this will cost around 15-30 euros.
How often does a vehicle have to undergo an MOT?
New vehicles must have their first MOT after three years, then every two years. You can see when the next appointment is due on the sticker on the rear license plate. The number in the middle indicates the year and the vertical number at the top indicates the month of the inspection (e.g. 5 for May or 8 for August). The color of the sticker also indicates when the next inspection is due. If the sticker is blue, for example, the next MOT is due in 2026.
What happens if a vehicle fails the main inspection?
If the inspector finds significant defects (EM) or dangerous defects (VM) on the vehicle that pose a traffic hazard, these must be rectified immediately. The vehicle may not be used for this period. The vehicle must then be inspected within one month. If the vehicle owner allows this period to elapse, a new main inspection is due.
