Updated April 10, 2025
The Virginia Safety Inspection is an annual requirement that helps drivers stay safe.
Inspectors must follow certain guidelines that are set forth by the state.
Many components from the front of the car to the rear are checked during the process. This includes the health of the tires.
Why would a vehicle’s tires not pass the Virginia Safety Inspection? There are a few reasons why they may fail.
Tire problems that won’t pass the Virginia Safety Inspection
A tire that is flushed with indicators will fail Virginia State Inspection
Tires help you slow down and get moving. We want to make sure they are in good shape before sending customers on their way.
Here are some tire conditions and problems we are watchful of when working on a car:
Tire tread: Overtime, tires become worn, reducing their traction. This impacts braking and their ability to move water away. State inspectors will evaluate the tire tread depth, which must be at 2/32 of an inch. A lot of manufacturers recommend replacing them sooner. Tires can fail inspection if the tread is flushed with indicators.
When secondary rubber and steel chords are showing on a tire, it will not pass state safety inspection
Chords: Our automotive technicians look at the wearing patterns, as well. A tire won’t pass the Virginia State Inspection if the secondary rubber or inner steel chords are showing. If left unaddressed, these problems can lead to a blown out tire.
Tire injuries: Foreign objects, such as nails or screws, in the tires is another problem we keep an eye out for. Depending on the location and angle of the injury, our technicians may be able to use a patch plug. A tire isn’t repairable if the damage is on the inner or outer shoulder or the sidewall, or if it’s at more than 45 degrees.
Foreign object damage, such as nails and screws in tire, will fail state inspection
Damaged wheels and rims: Vehicles that have bent or damaged wheels and rims will also fail the Virginia Safety Inspection. If a wheel is cracked, enough force can cause it to come apart while you’re driving. A damaged wheel where its integrity is compromised is not able to perform as designed. Wheels that are bent and leaking air can lead to a loss in tire pressure, resulting in a flat tire.
As our technicians look over tires, they make sure the tires are mounted properly. For example, if you have a directional tire, it needs to be installed the right way.
Rubber cracking on an older tire
Tire size and speed rating are important, too. Some cars or performance cars require a certain speed rating. The needed tire size can also vary among vehicles.
Age is another factor to keep in mind. You shouldn’t wait too long to replace your tires. Once they are between 6 and 10 years old (depending on where you live), you will want to get new ones.
Symptoms caused by tire issues
When something is wrong with your tires, you may notice certain signs.
A car could be pulling left or right, which might indicate a defective tire.
When a tire is loose or unbalanced, it can cause a vibration.
Low tire tread may impact how well a vehicle will stop and handle inclement weather.
Have you noticed any of these symptoms, or has it been a while since you got new tires? Ask an auto repair shop to see how they’re holding up.
Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.