If you own a truck, tractor, trailer, or even a bus, you must timely carry the CVIP inspections of your vehicle. It is something that holds paramount importance if you want your vehicles to run on Canadian roads. For that reason, as a vehicle owner, you should be aware of what commercial vehicle inspection is and where to get it done. Read this article till the end to learn everything about CVIP inspections.
What are CVIP Inspections?
CVIP Inspection means Commercial Vehicle Inspection program. This inspection is done by a certified technician who will check your fleet in and out by checking its steering, wheels, engine, and every other part. They have their own tools, which are perfect for detecting any unusual repair or problem in your fleet. Based on the inspection, a repair or replacement is suggested, which can also be taken care of by the CVIP Inspection shop you chose.
In order to drive your vehicle in Canada, you must pass your vehicle through a CVIP, a.k.a. Commercial Vehicle Inspection Program. The motive of conducting CVIP inspections is to ensure that the vehicle is safe to run on the road.
Importance of CVIP Inspection
Doing the CVIP Inspection gives you the sticker on your vehicle that shows the officers that your vehicle has met the safety measures and other inspection tests. The CVIP Inspection will help you secure your fleet from any unwarned breakdown of vehicles in the middle of the road.
CVIP Inspection will include visible repairs and an in-depth inspection of your fleet that will keep your vehicle maintained.
Overview of the CVIP Regulations and Requirements
The regulations and requirements of the CVIP vary from region to region. Every region may have additional requirements and regulations. Here is the CVIP regulations and requirements overview, which is common for all.
1. Qualification of the driver – Apart from the vehicle, the driver must hold a commercial driver’s license and acquire specific training.
2. Restriction of the weight – There are certain restrictions on the amount of weight the commercial vehicle allows. This is to prevent any hazardous accidents or off-balance while driving.
3. Meet the safety guidelines – It is necessary for every commercial vehicle to meet the safety guideline. The safety guidelines include an in-depth vehicle inspection, repair, and maintenance.
There are other regulations and requirements, but that depends upon the state and city you are traveling in.
Purpose of CVIP Inspection
Commercial vehicles carry loads and travel long distances. Hence, keeping the vehicle in the best condition is extremely important to avoid breaking down in the middle of the road. The CVIP Inspection will see if the vehicle has some underlying issue or repairs that need immediate attention.
The CVIP Inspections will protect your vehicle from heavy repairs by maintaining it on time. The trained and well-equipped technician will do the inspection, so you don’t have to worry about quality inspection.
Who needs to undergo the CVIP Inspection?
CVIP Inspection is done for commercial vehicles, so people who own a commercial vehicle whose vehicle is used for business purposes and who travel across the border need to have CVIP Inspection.
It is a mandatory program by the government for all commercial vehicles, trailers,s or any combination above 4500 kg.
Legal implications of CVIP compliance
CVIP Inspection is a mandatory inspection, but not that it is not a replacement, permanently or temporarily, for any other maintenance. Any trail, truck, or combination vehicle exceeding 4500 kg needs a CVIP inspection.
On top of that, the CVIP inspection papers must be kept along the drive just in case the officers ask. Charges can be imposed on your vehicle if you fail to show the certifications.
CVIP Inspection Process
Scheduling and preparing for a CVIP Inspection
The CVIP Inspection is done by checking all the parts of the vehicle. Therefore you need to ensure that all the parts of your vehicle are working to be ready for the inspection.
You must schedule your appointment with the shop for CVIP Inspection in advance to get a better facility. You can call directly and book your appointment.
Here is the checklist for the CVIP Inspection that you need to know:
In the CVIP Inspection, certain components are clearly checked in-depth, so even minute parts are checked.
1. Brakes and Braking System
The brakes are not just visually checked; each component is checked thoroughly. In this inspection, the mechanics also check the air brake to ensure complete safety.
2. Lighting and electrical systems
Reflectors and reflective tapes, exterior lights, and electrical systems are checked thoroughly, and repairs are made if any damage is found.
3. Suspension, tires, and wheels
There is much to inspect in this area of the fleet. The wheel balancing, bearing, cuts, or bulges on the tires and suspension are important things that are inspected.
4. Steering and exhaust systems
The exhaust system is less looked for when maintenance but not when it’s CVIP Inspection. The exhaust system is minutely checked with a tool, and steering smoothness is checked.
5. Frame, chassis, and body components
The mechanics also checked the fitment and the body components to ensure there was maximum safety. It keeps the rust and corrosion free from the body, preventing decay of it.
How Often do Commercial Vehicles Undergo the CVIP?
The vehicles might require a semi-annual or annual inspection, depending on the vehicle you own. We have described both, considering the Alberta province.
Annual CVIP Inspections
Intra-provincially traveling Commercial trucks, tractors, trailers, light trucks, semi-trailers, etc. with weight equal to more than 11,794 kg need annual CVIP inspections in Alberta. However, the same weighing 4 500 kg extra-provincially traveling vehicles also require yearly inspections.
Semi-Annual CVIP Inspections
Commercial buses with more than ten passenger capacity need semi-annual CVIP inspection in Edmonton. It is required only for commercial buses, and the ones operated for personal use are excluded from this scenario.
Is it Necessary to Get CVIP Inspections?
Yes, if you own 11,794 kg or more of commercial trucks, tractors, trailers, light trucks, semi-trailers, etc., you must get Commercial Vehicle Inspection in Edmonton once a year. Similarly, if you have more than a 10-seaters commercial bus, your vehicle must pass through the CVIP inspections twice a year.
Commercial vehicles must timely get CVIP inspections as per Section 19 of Vehicle Inspection Regulations. The driver must carry the inspection certificates with them to represent them to the investigator or peace officer. If the credentials are expired or absent, the vehicle driver has to pay a mandatory fine.
In case the certificates are destroyed or misplaced, the vehicle owner must get a copy of these certificates from the technicians or file them for another inspection.
Benefits of CVIP Inspections
Now that you know that CVIP is mandatory regulation by the government, it just doesn’t comply with the safety of the vehicle.
1. Enhanced safety and reduced risk of accidents
CVIP Inspection is not your regular maintenance service; you must do regular checks. It is a well-performed inspection where you are guaranteed the safety measures which will allow you to drive smoothly on any road under every condition.
2. Compliance with regulatory standards and regulations
The CVIP Inspection is not a want for your fleet; it’s a government-required regulation to be followed. CVIP Inspection is done under the regulations and proper standards, so you must follow the same.
3. Extended vehicle lifespan and improved reliability
An in-depth inspection will provide safety and enable the vehicle to work properly. Ignoring the repairs will only make the part more damaged. That is why the CVIP Inspection will increase the lifespan of your vehicle.
4. Positive impact on insurance rates and premiums
Any detection of repair or damage is easily identified by CVIP, which makes it easier for the insurer to have the best plan ready for the vehicle. CVIP can also help get the correct claim by detecting the exact damage done.
Where to Find CVIP Inspection Edmonton Facilities?
If you are going to start with the CVIP Inspection, it is as important to find the right CVIP Inspection facility. Keep in mind the following points when finding the best facility for CVIP.
1. Authorized inspection facilities and technicians
Check for the facility that is certified and authorized. The facility has good reviews and is trusted and more reliant.
2. Locating CVIP inspection stations in your area
It is advisable that you do an online search to get the best CVIP Inspection facility near your location. Asking other commercial vehicle drivers is also the best option to ensure you choose an authentic service.
Tips for choosing a reputable inspection provider
Take note of the following points for choosing the reputable CVIP Inspection facility.
- Government Authorized
- Highly experienced
- Well-equipped
- Type of services provided
- Qualification of the technicians.
CVIP Violations and Consequences
It is a mandatory regulation by the government if you wish to take your truck on the road. It is as simple as – You cannot drive if you are not getting done your CVIP Inspection.The officers may ask you for your CVIP certificates, and if you cannot produce the certificate at that time, things can get difficult for you.
Common CVIP violations and non-compliance issues
There can be several violations you can make if you are not doing CVIP.
- Using the worn brake pads
- Broken or non-functioning lights
- Non-functioning shock absorbers
- The exhaust system is not working smoothly
These are a few of the violations, but if the CVIP is not done, these issues can get you in trouble.
Potential penalties and fines for failing CVIP Inspections
If your vehicle is found on the highway driving with some sought of repair to be made or any part or component damaged that can harm your safety, then you might get a penalty of up to $20,000, or you might be asked not to operate your vehicle until it’s met the safety guidelines of necessary repairs.
Repercussions of operating vehicles without a valid CVIP certificate
If you don’t have a valid CVIP certificate, the officer might check how many defects or repairs they might remove your sticker and take possession of it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does every commercial vehicle have to do CVIP Inspection?
Yes, every commercial vehicle operating must do CVIP Inspection. It is a must by the government, so you need to have the CVIP certificates.
Is it difficult to get an appointment for the CVIP Inspection facility?
You can book an easy appointment online by simply calling the SRB Equipment. Call on 780-447-0600 to book your appointment.
How to know if your vehicle is ready for the CVIP Inspection?
Your vehicle needs to get a CVIP Inspection every 6 months, and you just need to check if your vehicle is working for the inspection.
Conclusion
You are very clear with the thought that your vehicle needs CVIP for the long run and for government clearance. You definitely get more safety and healthy, smooth working of your vehicle. It is not a difficult process if you find an authorized and experienced CVIP Facility provider. SRB Equipment is providing CVIP Inspection services for many years along with their expert technicians so you can totally rely on them for your CVIP Inspection.