In 2024, important changes regarding the periodic inspection of vehicles in Italy came into force. These updates aim to improve road safety and the efficiency of checks, aiming for greater transparency and the use of new technologies. This article aims to analyze in detail all the legislative changes, with particular attention to the most relevant aspects for car inspection centers and vehicle owners.
Introduction of OBD control: diagnostics becomes mandatory
One of the most significant innovations of the 2024 regulatory update is the mandatory introduction of the OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) diagnostic system. This technology allows technicians at inspection centers to connect directly to the vehicle's control unit to read any stored errors, including the presence of anomalies signaled by the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp). This new requirement applies to all vehicles registered from 1 September 2009, corresponding to the Euro 5 and 6 standards.
How OBD Check Works
OBD check allows you to monitor various vehicle parameters, such as mileage, VIN (vehicle identification number) and fuel consumption. Reading these data will be crucial for the outcome of the inspection, especially in the event of discrepancies in the mileage traveled compared to what is reported in the vehicle documents.
Special attention is given to the MIL engine warning light. If this light is on at the time of the inspection, the vehicle will not be able to pass the inspection unless the problem that generated the anomaly is resolved. This makes the OBD check a key factor in compliance with the new regulations and for the safety of the vehicle.
New rules for training and accreditation of MOT centres
In addition to the introduction of OBD diagnostics, the updated law imposes more stringent standards for the training of inspection center inspectors. Inspectors must undergo mandatory refresher courses to be able to properly use the new diagnostic equipment and apply the new evaluation criteria.
Technical requirements for MOT centres have also been tightened. Centres that do not adapt their facilities and equipment to the new regulations risk losing their accreditation. This increased control is intended to ensure that only qualified centres can continue to operate, thus improving the quality of MOTs and reducing the risk of fraud.
Review of electric and hybrid vehicles
With the increase in electric and hybrid cars in circulation, the legislator has extended the mandatory periodic inspections to these vehicles as well, with some peculiarities. Electric and hybrid cars registered from 2021 will be subjected to automated checks through the OBD system. This tool will be able to monitor the efficiency of energy management systems and the correct functioning of the batteries.
Penalties for failure to inspect
The update of the legislation has increased the penalties for those who do not have their vehicle inspected within the required timeframes. Fines range from a minimum of 169 euros to a maximum of 680 euros, depending on the severity of the violation. Furthermore, vehicles that have not been inspected will be suspended from circulation until they have successfully passed the inspection.
This measure is accompanied by greater control by the police, who will be able to easily verify the status of vehicles through the new centralized system for managing inspections. The aim is to reduce the number of vehicles that circulate without the minimum safety requirements.
Future prospects: towards greater automation
While the current changes focus primarily on the MIL and the OBD mileage check, it is expected that in the future the checks will become even more automated and comprehensive. It is possible that OBD diagnostics will be extended to monitor other safety devices, such as ABS systems and airbags, which today are only subject to a visual check.
Impact on the sector
The 2024 regulatory update represents a major challenge for MOT centres, which will need to invest in new equipment and train staff to meet the new requirements. However, these changes also provide an opportunity to improve the quality of service and stand out from less prepared competitors.
On the other hand, vehicle owners will have to pay more attention to the maintenance of their vehicle, especially regarding on-board diagnostic systems. An undetected fault or a lit warning light could result in the vehicle failing the MOT and consequently being blocked.
The 2024 amendments to the MOT Act are an important step towards greater road safety and transparency in inspections. The introduction of OBD diagnostics, improved training processes and increased fines are just some of the measures that will make the MOT system more efficient and rigorous. These changes will affect not only MOT centres, but also vehicle owners, who will need to adapt quickly to ensure their cars are legal and safe on the road.
What's New in the 2024 Car Inspection Centers Law: A Detailed Analysis
