NH Budget Bill Eliminates Vehicle Inspections: A Dangerous Move for New Hampshire
The recent passage of New Hampshire's state budget bill has brought a controversial change: the repeal of mandatory vehicle safety inspections. While some may celebrate this as a step towards reducing red tape, we at Accomplished Auto believe this decision poses serious risks to public safety, financial stability, and environmental health.
Every day in our shop, we witness firsthand why these inspections are critical. Just today, three vehicles highlighted the dangers of skipping regular safety checks:
One vehicle came in with the front subframe—responsible for holding the engine and front suspension—completely detached from the body. This catastrophic failure could have easily led to a total loss of vehicle control.
Another car arrived with rear brakes so worn that the driver could barely stop. The brake caliper had completely failed, and there were no brake pads left.
A third vehicle, from a state with more lenient window tint laws, had windows so dark they allowed only 0.5% light transmission. Looking out was like trying to see through black gauze, dramatically increasing the risk of accidents. In contrast, New Hampshire requires at least 35% light transmission for rear windows.
These are not isolated incidents. We routinely find vehicles with bald tires, rust-compromised frames, and failing suspension components—problems that, without mandatory inspections, could easily go unnoticed until they cause accidents or require extremely costly repairs.
Beyond the immediate safety concerns, there are significant financial implications for both vehicle owners and the state. Inspections often catch minor issues early, allowing for affordable repairs before problems escalate. Without them, drivers risk facing major, more expensive fixes down the line. Additionally, the state stands to lose revenue from inspection sticker sales and station registrations, not to mention the logistical and financial burden of terminating contracts with companies like Gordon-Darby, which supplies inspection and emissions testing equipment.
Another important financial consideration is the potential impact on auto insurance rates. There is some evidence suggesting that states without mandatory vehicle inspections may experience higher accident rates, leading insurers to charge higher premiums to account for the increased risk. Anecdotally, one of our own technicians who relocated from Texas—a state without vehicle inspection requirements—found that his car insurance premiums in New Hampshire were hundreds of dollars lower. If the repeal of inspections leads to higher accident claims, New Hampshire drivers could ultimately face rising insurance costs as well.
On the environmental front, eliminating inspections could lead to a sharp increase in air pollution. Poorly maintained vehicles emit more pollutants, contributing to respiratory issues like asthma and allergies, especially among children and vulnerable adults. These vehicles also tend to be less fuel-efficient and more prone to engine damage, driving up both fuel and repair costs for their owners.
In light of these concerns, we strongly urge New Hampshire's legislators to reconsider this policy change. Vehicle safety inspections serve a vital role in protecting all of us—drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Convenience should never come at the cost of safety, health, and financial wellbeing.
Stay safe out there, and remember: regular maintenance saves lives and money.