What Happens If Your Car Fails Inspection in Massachusetts?

If your car fails inspection in Massachusetts, you will receive a rejection sticker, which will be placed on your vehicle’s windshield. At this point, you will have 60 days to repair your car and get a free re-test at the same station where you received your initial inspection.

What Happens If Your Car Fails Inspection in Massachusetts and You Get a Black “R” Sticker?

A black “R” sticker means that your car failed an inspection’s emissions test but passed safety checks. Because of this, it’s legal for you to drive your car for up to 60 days from the date you receive the sticker. Fix the emissions issue and return to the same station where you received your inspection within this time frame. When you do, you won’t have to pay for your re-inspection.

What Happens If Your Car Fails Inspection in MA and You Get a Red “R” Sticker?

A red “R” sticker shows that your car failed a safety inspection. This indicates that your car is unsafe to travel on public roads. On top of that, you may be subject to penalties if you don’t repair your car immediately and get a re-inspection within 60 days of the initial failure.

What Is the Difference Between a Black “R” Sticker and a Red “R” Sticker If Your Car Doesn’t Pass Inspection in Massachusetts?

A red “R” sticker is more serious than a black one. This sticker shows that your car failed a safety inspection or both safety and emissions assessments, and it is unsafe to drive. Alternatively, your car will get a black “R” sticker if your car failed an emissions test only. Your car is still safe to operate, but you will have to repair it in accordance with Massachusetts law.

Regardless of whether your car is given a black or red “R” sticker, you have 60 days from the day of your original inspection to fix any outstanding vehicle issues. If you go back to the initial station where you received your inspection within this period, you won’t have to pay anything for your car’s re-inspection. Or, if you go to a different station, you’ll have to pay a new inspection fee.

What Happens If Your Car Fails Inspection in Massachusetts and You Don’t Fix Your Vehicle?

Driving with a failed inspection sticker beyond the 60-day window can result in fines, police citations, and failed registration renewal. Also, if you fix your vehicle in accordance with Massachusetts law, you have to keep repair receipts in your vehicle.

Factors to Consider If Your Car Fails Inspection in Massachusetts

If you fail your vehicle inspection, you will receive a written report detailing the reason for getting a black or red “R” sticker. You shouldn’t drive your car if the inspection failure was related to your vehicle’s brakes, steering, suspension, or another safety issue. If your car fails its emissions inspection, you may drive it for the purpose of getting repairs.

Massachusetts has a Lemon Law that applies to car inspections. If you bought your car from a dealer or private party and the vehicle fails inspection, you may get a full refund if the repair costs exceed 10% of the purchase price. You can receive this refund as long as you complete the required procedures within 14 days of the date of purchase.