Cars, motorbikes and trailers are regularly inspected. If a technical inspection at the Motor Vehicle Inspection Centre (MFK) is due, you will receive a written invitation from the cantonal road traffic.
Inspection intervals
Most motor vehicles are inspected at the following intervals:
Inspection of new cars: After 5 years
Inspection: 3 years later
And then…every 2 years
Preparation
For the inspection, your vehicle must be clean and in a sound technical condition. Any necessary repairs must be carried out beforehand. It is usually worthwhile to have your vehicle serviced at a garage before the inspection.
Costs
Vehicle inspections cost different amounts depending on the canton. For the inspection of a motorbike or a car, you have to reckon with around CHF 60. You can enquire at the road traffic office in your canton.
A vehicle can also be inspected outside these intervals. For example, when buying a second-hand car, you should make sure that it has been inspected shortly beforehand.
If you import a used vehicle, you should have it officially inspected before you drive it. In the case of new cars, the road traffic office only checks whether the papers and the vehicle match; there is no technical inspection.
If your car does not pass the inspection, you will have to go for a follow-up inspection. Normally this is due within 30 days and you must arrange the appointment yourself. In the case of minor defects, it is sufficient in certain cantons if a garage repairs them and reports this to the road traffic office.
Road traffic offices: