Inspection for Trucks in Quebec vs Ontario: What You Should Know?
Periodic inspection for trucks is a mandatory requirement in Quebec and Ontario. While the inspection requirements are relatively similar in both provinces, the types of agencies regulating the processes can be different. Whether you are driving a heavy vehicle in Quebec or Ontario, the following guide should shed light on things you need to know. Timely inspection is important to ensure the roadworthiness of your vehicle and overall safety.
Truck Inspections in Quebec
The Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) is responsible for administering the regulations and programs related to heavy vehicles inspection in Quebec. SAAQ is responsible for ensuring heavy vehicles such as trucks are in good mechanical condition and comply with the laws and regulations. When it comes to inspection for truck, all owners are required to have their vehicles undergo a thorough mechanical inspection every 6 or 12 months. This varies based on the vehicle type. Successful inspection leads to confirmation of the vehicle’s safety.
Mandatory Mechanical Inspection
So, where can you get your semi truck inspection conducted? SAAQ has a number of recognized inspection agents in Quebec where you can have your truck inspected. Such a mechanical inspection center will have authorized mechanics that will conduct the inspection. You will have to fix an appointment and arrive with your unloaded truck. Make sure that the vehicle is free of any dirt or obstructions that may interfere with proper inspection of all the aspects.
Once all the components and the overall condition of the vehicle are found to be compliant, your truck will get an inspection sticker. If a defect is found, you will have to get all the repairs done before getting a re-inspection and obtaining the sticker.
- Minor Defects: If the inspection detects only minor defects, you will have 48 hours to get them repaired and apply for an inspection sticker.
- Major Defects: If any major defect is detected during your heavy vehicle inspection, the vehicle will be prohibited from use on the road. It will have to be repaired before getting the inspection sticker and being authorized for road use.
Truck Inspections in Ontario
When it comes to truck inspection in Ontario, the Ministry of Transportation is responsible for the process. The ministry will monitor the condition of vehicles operating in the province and will take corrective action when necessary. This is achieved through periodic vehicle inspections, conducted at designated truck inspection centers.
Besides the Ministry of Transportation enforcement officers, compliance with the province’s regulations is enforced through truck inspection Ontario facilities. In Ontario, a commercial motor vehicle’s definition can fall under two categories:
- A truck or highway tractor that has a gross weight of over 4,500 kg.
- A bus that has a seating capacity of at least 10 passengers.
Safety Inspections
When it comes to semi truck inspection, your vehicle will need a periodic inspection. The objective of these inspections is to reduce the risk of collisions due to mechanical defects and improve highway safety. There are three different types of safety inspections:
- Semi-annual
- Annual
- Safety standard certificates
The semi-annual and annual inspection requirements are minimal conditions. Additional inspections and maintenance may be required to ensure the proper operation of your vehicle and to make sure it meets the on-road standards.
What is Covered in Truck Inspection in Ontario?
A typical heavy vehicle inspection involves thoroughly checking your vehicle and ensuring that it complies with the laws. The following components are checked during the process:
- Power train
- Brakes
- Steering
- Suspension hydraulic brake system
- Lamps
- Tires & wheels
- Body
- Couplers & hitches
- Electrical system
Wheel separation is closely monitored in commercial motor vehicles. Action can be taken by the authorities if the vehicle doesn’t meet the standards. Fines for wheel separations can range from $2,000 to $50,000.
At TMS TruckMasters, we have over three decades of industry experience in heavy truck and trailer repair and maintenance services. We are officially recognized SAAQ inspection agents and provide inspection for truck and heavy vehicles. We provide general repair services for all brands of trucks, trailers, and RVs. For more information about our services, feel free to contact us at (514) 631-0963 or (450) 455-2578 or visit this page to find our truck repair facility near you.