Level Auto and Safety Certification Station: Ensuring Your Vehicle Meets 2025 Standards
As of 2025, the new digital safety certification has taken effect. At Level Auto, a volume shop performing numerous safety inspections in the Toronto area, we have observed a range of reasons for vehicle certification failures. These issues can range from simple fixes, like nonfunctional light bulbs, to more significant problems, such as rusted or cracked subframes and holes in the vehicle’s undercarriage.
Having your vehicle checked regularly by a licensed mechanic and keeping up with routine maintenance can significantly reduce the likelihood of a failure during a safety certification inspection. Below are a few items that often surprise customers when they fall under safety guidelines:
Cracking or Ripped Drivebelt Might Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
A worn or damaged drivebelt can lead to MTO safety inspection failure due to its critical role in powering various engine components, such as the alternator, power steering, and air conditioning. If the drivebelt is cracked, frayed, or slipping, it can cause overheating, loss of power steering, or failure of electrical systems. An improperly functioning drivebelt can lead to engine misfire and even complete engine failure. To pass an MTO inspection, ensure the drivebelt is in good condition, properly tensioned, and free from visible cracks or wear. Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and ensures safety.
Contaminated Brake Fluid Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
The brake system inspection is a critical component of the safety certification process. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time. Even manufacturers of newer vehicles recommend replacing brake fluid every 50,000 kilometers or every two years, whichever comes first. During inspections, a specialized meter is used to measure the moisture content in the fluid. High moisture levels can lead to reduced braking efficiency, posing a safety risk.
A Broken or Leaking Exhaust Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
A leaking or broken exhaust system is a serious safety hazard and will cause a vehicle to fail an MTO safety inspection. Exhaust leaks can allow harmful carbon monoxide (CO) fumes to enter the cabin, posing a risk of poisoning. A damaged exhaust also affects engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance. Additionally, a loud or broken muffler can exceed noise limits, leading to legal issues. Inspectors check for rusted pipes, holes, loose connections, and excessive noise. To pass an MTO inspection, ensure your exhaust system is properly sealed, structurally sound, and free of leaks or damage.
Seat Functionality Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
One item many don’t expect to fail an MTO safety inspection is the driver’s seat. If the seat cannot adjust forward or backward, the vehicle will not pass. Proper seat positioning ensures the driver maintains full control over the steering, pedals, and visibility. A stuck or broken seat mechanism poses a serious safety risk, as it prevents proper driving posture and reaction time. Additionally, a loose or unstable seat can fail due to potential detachment in an accident. Ensure your driver’s seat adjusts properly and locks securely to pass an MTO inspection and drive safely.
Improper Wheel Fasteners Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
Wheel fasteners (lug nuts, bolts, and studs) are critical for securing wheels to a vehicle. During an MTO safety inspection, improper wheel fasteners can lead to failure due to:
- Loose or Missing Lug Nuts: Wheels may detach, creating a severe safety hazard.
- Incorrect Fastener Size or Type: Using mismatched fasteners can compromise wheel stability.
- Damaged or Stripped Threads: Weakened threads reduce clamping force, increasing the risk of wheel loss.
- Over-Tightened or Under-Torqued Fasteners: Improper torque can warp brake rotors or cause wheel detachment.
Ensure your wheel fasteners meet MTO safety standards to pass inspection and drive safely
Hazed Headlights, Improper Aiming, or Burned-Out Bulbs Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
Headlights are essential for visibility and road safety, and failing an MTO safety inspection due to hazed headlight assemblies, misaligned lights, or burned-out bulbs is common.
- Hazed or Cloudy Headlights: Oxidation reduces brightness, decreasing visibility and making night driving unsafe.
- Improperly Aimed Headlights: Misaligned lights can blind oncoming drivers or fail to illuminate the road properly.
- Burned-Out Bulbs: Non-functioning headlights, brake lights, or turn signals compromise vehicle safety.
Ensure your headlights are clear, properly aimed, and fully functional to pass an MTO inspection and stay safe on the road.
Tire Condition Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
Tires play a crucial role in vehicle safety, and failing an MTO (Ministry of Transportation) safety inspection due to tire issues is common. The primary reasons for failure include low tread depth, visible damage, improper inflation, and mismatched tires.
- Low Tread Depth: If your tires have less than 2/32 of an inch (1.5mm in Ontario) of tread depth, they are considered unsafe and will fail inspection.
- Cracks, Bulges, or Cuts: Any visible sidewall damage, such as bulges or deep cracks, can compromise structural integrity.
- Uneven or Excessive Wear: Uneven wear patterns indicate alignment or suspension issues, leading to failure.
- Improper Inflation: Overinflated or underinflated tires reduce traction and handling, making them unsafe.
- Mismatched Tires: All four tires must be in similar condition and size for optimal performance.
Ensure your tires meet MTO standards to pass the inspection and stay safe on the road.
Worn or Rusted Brakes Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
Brakes are a critical safety component, and if they don’t meet MTO safety standards, your vehicle will fail inspection. Proper braking performance ensures safe stopping distances and prevents accidents.
Common Brake Issues That Cause Inspection Failure:
- Brake Pads Below 2mm: Worn-out brake pads reduce stopping power, increasing braking distance and safety risks. Metal-on-metal contact can damage rotors, leading to expensive repairs.
- Rusted Rotors (More Than 25% Coverage): Excessive rust weakens brake efficiency, causes uneven wear, and leads to poor stopping performance.
- Improper Rotor Thickness: Rotors below manufacturer specifications reduce braking power, increasing the risk of overheating, warping, and brake failure.
During an MTO safety inspection, technicians check brake pad thickness, rotor condition, and overall braking performance. To pass an MTO inspection, ensure your brake pads, rotors, and overall braking system meet safety requirements. Regular brake maintenance enhances safety, prevents costly repairs, and ensures compliance with Ontario’s MTO safety inspection standards.
A Cracked Windshield Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
A cracked windshield can compromise visibility and structural integrity, causing your vehicle to fail an MTO safety inspection. Any crack larger than 50mm (2 inches) in the driver’s line of sight or spreading across the windshield is considered a safety hazard. Cracks can obstruct vision, weaken the glass, and increase the risk of shattering during an accident. Even small chips can expand due to temperature changes or vibrations. To pass an MTO inspection, your windshield must be free of significant cracks or damage. Repair or replace a damaged windshield to ensure safe driving and compliance with MTO regulations.
Holes, Cracked Subframes, and Structural Damage Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
A vehicle’s structural integrity is crucial for safety, and any holes in the body, cracked subframes, or compromised underbody will cause it to fail an MTO safety inspection. Rust, corrosion, or damage can weaken the frame, reducing crash protection and stability. Inspectors check for holes in load-bearing areas, weakened subframes, and underbody rust perforation. Structural failure increases the risk of accidents, making the vehicle unsafe to drive. To pass an MTO inspection, repair any frame damage, rusted panels, or weakened structural components to ensure your vehicle meets Ontario’s road safety standards and remains safe and roadworthy.
Leaking Driveshaft Boots Could Cause an MTO Safety Inspection Failure
Leaking driveshaft boots and worn CV shafts can cause significant damage to your vehicle’s drivetrain, leading to MTO safety inspection failure. Driveshaft boots protect the CV joints by keeping grease in and debris out. If these boots are cracked, torn, or leaking, the CV joints may fail, leading to loss of power, vibrations, and potential breakdowns. Worn CV shafts can cause poor handling, clicking noises, and excessive wear on the drivetrain. To pass an MTO inspection, ensure your driveshaft boots are intact and CV shafts are in good condition for safe and reliable vehicle operation.
Why Choose Level Auto for Safety Certifications?
For more than a decade, Level Auto has serviced customers in Toronto, Ontario, surrounding neighborhoods, providing top-quality car care for all makes and models. Our auto repair shop offers everything our customers need: maintenance, inspection, diagnostics, and repair, all provided by friendly, experienced professionals.
Expertise
Our licensed mechanics are trained to identify and address issues in compliance with the latest safety standards.
Transparency
We provide clear explanations and recommendations to help you understand your vehicle’s condition.
Convenience
Located in Toronto, our shop is equipped to handle high volumes of inspections efficiently, ensuring minimal wait times.
Stay Safe and Certified
By prioritizing regular maintenance and addressing potential issues proactively, you can ensure your vehicle meets safety certification standards. Visit Level Auto and let our experienced team help you stay roadworthy and compliant with the new 2025 digital safety certification requirements.
SAVE $5 ON MTO SAFETY INSPECTION
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