A new California law has recently gone into effect that expands the state’s guidelines for vehicle safety inspections, according to a California Automotive Wholesalers' Association press release.
A.B. 471, which took effect July 8, 2024, will expand the requirements for performing inspections on salvage vehicles. While originally only requiring brake and lamp inspections, this has been expanded to include other vehicle safety systems, creating one comprehensive safety inspection titled the California Vehicle Safety Inspection Program.
With additions being made to inspection procedures, CVSIP brings with it new station and technician licenses, and enables BAR to compile information from inspection stations on what nationally recognized certifications they hold for consumers to see on their public website.
The bill will also allow for inspection stations to send safety certificates in to the Department of Motor Vehicles electronically via the California Bureau of Automotive Repair.
An advisory task force was formed by CAWA in 2019 to explore ideas for an improved safety inspection program in the state, and had several industry organizations in its ranks, including the Auto Care Association and the Automotive Service Association.
“Many of the revived total loss salvage vehicles could have additional safety concerns beyond lamps and brakes, including cracked windshields, illuminated or damaged air bags, faulty seat belts, etc. Yet they still pass inspection and are sold to unsuspecting consumers who think they are purchasing a safe vehicle,” said CAWA President and CEO Rodney Pierini. “The implementation of this law will ensure consumers who purchase a salvage vehicle are purchasing a safe vehicle.”
