New Memphis Vehicle Inspection Procedure

(Memphis) Effective immediately, Memphis residents have two chances to pass the vehicle inspection test.

First, cars will be given the “on-board diagnostic” test which uses the vehicle’s computer to check all functions.

If the vehicle fails that test, then the tailpipe test will be given.

If the vehicle passes the tailpipe test, the vehicle will pass inspection.

If the vehicle fails both the diagnostic test and the tailpipe test, it will fail inspection.

The State of Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation confirmed Memphis only has to use the tailpipe test.

Memphis voluntarily added the diagnostic test in 2010 then went with it solely in 2011.

Numerous people have complained the car computers are often wrong and expensive to repair.

The City has been required to perform the tailpipe test since 1978 due to high carbon monoxide levels in the air.

Vehicles made prior to 1996 that don’t have on board diagnostics require tailpipe tests.