#car #motorcycle #fahas #inspection
In Saudi Arabia, vehicle inspection is an important regulatory requirement for both cars and motorcycles to ensure safety, roadworthiness, and environmental standards. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
1. Purpose of Vehicle Inspection (Fahas)
• In Saudi Arabia, the periodic technical inspection of vehicles, commonly referred to as “Fahas,” is mandatory for cars and motorcycles. This inspection ensures vehicles meet safety and environmental standards and helps reduce accidents due to vehicle malfunction.
• Vehicles with valid Fahas certificates demonstrate compliance with the standards set by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO).
2. Frequency of Inspection
• Private Vehicles (Cars): Generally, cars are required to undergo Fahas annually once they are older than 3 years. New cars may be exempt for the first three years.
• Motorcycles: Motorcycles are also subject to annual inspections, depending on age and registration status.
3. Requirements for Inspection
• Documentation: Vehicle registration, valid insurance, and the Fahas inspection card.
• Vehicle Condition: The vehicle should be in good working order without major damage or issues.
• Inspection Centers: Licensed inspection centers across the country perform the Fahas.
4. Inspection Process
• At the inspection center, the vehicle undergoes a series of checks, which include:
• Exterior and Interior Condition: Examines bodywork, mirrors, lights, seatbelts, and interior components.
• Engine and Emissions: Tests for emissions compliance and engine performance.
• Brakes and Suspension: Inspects brake efficiency, suspension system, and tires.
• Electronics: Checks electronic systems and lights.
5. Passing and Failing the Inspection
• If a vehicle or motorcycle passes, the Fahas certificate is issued, and the owner can renew the vehicle’s registration (Istimara).
• If it fails, the vehicle owner must address the issues and return for re-inspection. Usually, owners are given a specific time frame to correct problems without incurring additional fees for re-inspection.
6. Importance of the Fahas for Registration and Insurance
• The Fahas certificate is required for renewing the vehicle registration and securing insurance.
• Driving without a valid Fahas or expired registration is against Saudi law and can result in fines and penalties.
7. Special Considerations for Imported Vehicles
• Imported vehicles, including motorcycles, must undergo a one-time inspection before registration in the Kingdom to ensure they meet SASO’s standards.
8. Digital Services for Fahas
• The government provides online services to check Fahas status, book appointments, and make payments through the Absher portal, making the process more efficient.
Ensuring vehicle compliance with Fahas requirements is part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to enhance road safety and reduce environmental impact, making it an important annual task for drivers in the country.