A Story About a Vehicle Inspection: Speedometer Failed Four Times

A Story About a Vehicle Inspection: Speedometer Failed Four Times

In Japan, vehicles must undergo a vehicle inspection. I recently went for a user vehicle inspection for the first time in a while. Although I could have asked the motorcycle shop where I usually leave my bike, they seemed busy, so I decided to handle it myself. I prefer to work on my own motorcycle whenever possible.

Please note that the following information about vehicle inspections might be outdated or inaccurate, as it has been quite a while since my last visit to a motorcycle shop. Here are the features of user vehicle inspections along with their advantages and disadvantages:

[Cheap]
You’ll save money on labor costs at the motorcycle shop, often receiving change from 20,000 yen.

[Fast]
Depending on your reservation at the inspection station, the process can be completed on the same day.

[Self-Responsibility]
Since you handle the maintenance yourself, you may need to fix any issues pointed out during the inspection on the spot.

[Administrative Procedures]
Dealing with paperwork can be stressful if you're unfamiliar with how to complete the forms. However, the user vehicle inspection window is clearly marked, and staff are available to assist with the process.

[Concerns About Trouble]
Initially, you might find it confusing to understand inspection records, re-inspections, and structural changes. Researching these topics in advance can save time. Re-examinations are available up to three times for 2,000 yen, and any structural changes will be noted, with width and height remeasured. This differs from a modification request.

Although the overview above is somewhat general, if you enthusiastically request a user inspection at a motorcycle shop and ask for their assistance, they will perform basic maintenance for you. This will help you learn what needs attention and what to watch out for. Don’t hesitate to invest in maintenance, as there are motorcycle shops experienced in vehicle inspections, and you shouldn’t have to deal with any unpleasant issues.

CBX1000 Vehicle Inspection

Regarding the misalignment of the optical axis of the headlights…

[About Optical Axis Misalignment]

Next to the vehicle inspection area or on the premises, there is often a tester shop that specializes in vehicle inspection-specific maintenance. Motorcycle shops can offer consultation and adjustments for headlight brightness and orientation.

In my case, I expected the brightness to be adequate, so I asked them to check it and adjust the optical axis since I couldn't get it aligned myself. It would have cost 3,300 yen if you brought it in personally.

There are some considerations regarding the optical axis, especially with LEDs, multi-light reflectors, and projectors. It’s advisable to consult a knowledgeable motorcycle shop in advance. Ensure that the product is compatible with vehicle inspections. If you find a product is inexpensive but not guaranteed to pass inspection, it’s better to replace it with a headlight that is confirmed to be inspection-compatible beforehand.

Speed meter

[Speedometer]

Since I hadn't adjusted it in advance, I encountered quite a few issues this time. Photography is prohibited inside the inspection area, so I can't provide detailed photos. The measurement method involves placing the vehicle's wheels on rollers and instructing the machine to drive at 40 km/h by pressing the pedals. I adjusted the meter tension using a GPS speedometer for reference, but the speedometer's response was poor. When the machine was set to 40 km/h, the CBX1000’s speedometer was showing only 30 km/h, making it difficult to pass the inspection.

The issue was with the speedometer calibration. I eventually passed the test by adjusting the needle on the speedometer and making the necessary adjustments for the vehicle inspection.

Notes on User Vehicle Inspection

The reason I had to undergo re-examination multiple times was because the inspector closely monitored my adjustments. Some inspectors can be quite strict, and there are aspects of the inspection process that can seem a bit unreasonable.

I don’t want to complain, but during the speedometer test, I attempted to adjust by releasing the foot pedal early based on my experience. However, I was told that this was too soon. Additionally, the inspections seemed particularly stringent for vehicles with older registrations, leading to unnecessarily strict checks.

At the inspection site, there is a sign asking those who wish to have their vehicle inspected to apply. If there are motorcycle shops or enthusiasts present who seem approachable, it might be helpful to ask them for advice. Typically, you perform the inspection yourself on the inspection line and stamp it with a machine. Engaging in conversation with the inspector generally doesn’t yield any benefits.

A Story About a Vehicle Inspection: Speedometer Failed Four Times【summary】

While I was waiting in line for the inspection, an inspector directed me to the inspection office to check my documents. After about 5 minutes, when I returned, I was instructed to line up at the end of the line instead of continuing from where I left off. My motorcycle was parked in a corner of the inspection line. This seemed unreasonable, so I requested the inspector to allow me to resume from my previous position. He agreed, provided that the person behind me consented. I asked him to obtain the consent of the person behind me and was then allowed to continue from where I left off. After relining up, I was inspected by a different inspector and passed the vehicle inspection easily.

This situation was likely due to the overly strict calibration of the speedometer inspection machine. During this process, about three motorcycle shop staff noticed my repeated attempts and came over to offer encouragement and advice.

In hindsight, it’s clear that bringing a motorcycle with poor maintenance to the inspection isn’t ideal. It's unsettling to face unreasonably strict inspections. Ideally, passing the inspection should be more straightforward, even under such conditions. Additionally, I had previously passed the user vehicle inspection about 10 times, but I realized that my approach was somewhat naive. It's not always best to handle maintenance yourself. I should have sought cooperation and consultation from the motorcycle shop I mentioned earlier.

Since the process is cheap, it takes considerable time to reach a level where you can manage it on your own. If you’re interested in a challenge, I encourage you to give it a try.

Well then! See you at the vehicle inspection station in two years!
Motorcycles in Japan are inspected every two years.