State Inspection

Perform a complete state safety inspection on a 2005 Dodge Viper, covering all required systems including lights, brakes, suspension, tires, emissions, and safety equipment per state inspection requirements.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake.
2. Verify vehicle identification number (VIN) matches registration documents.
3. Ensure all vehicle systems are at operating temperature for accurate OBD-II readiness monitor check.
4. Position wheel chocks at rear wheels if inspecting front suspension or brake components.

Procedure

1. 1

   Inspect exterior lighting systems
   Check operation of all exterior lights including headlights (low and high beam), front turn signals, front side markers, rear turn signals, brake lights, tail lights, license plate light, and reverse lights. Verify headlight aim is within specification - both headlights should illuminate road properly without excessive glare. Check for cracked or broken lenses. Verify hazard lights function properly with all four corner lights flashing simultaneously.
2. 2

   Check horn and windshield systems
   Test horn for proper operation - it should produce adequate sound when activated. Inspect windshield for cracks or chips in driver's line of sight that exceed state maximum size requirements (typically 1 inch). Test windshield wipers on all speeds and verify washer fluid sprays properly onto windshield. Check wiper blades for deterioration, tears, or streaking.
3. 3

   Inspect tires and wheels
   Measure tread depth at multiple points on all four tires using tread depth gauge - minimum legal depth is typically 2/32 inch but verify state requirement. Check for uneven wear patterns, bulges, cuts, or exposed cords. Verify tire size matches manufacturer specification and all four tires are appropriate for vehicle. Check tire pressure and adjust to specification per the door jamb placard (approximately 30 PSI front and 30 PSI rear cold) — note the Viper uses staggered front/rear tire sizes, so verify each axle separately. Inspect wheels for cracks, bends, or damage. Verify all lug nuts are present and properly seated.
4. 4

   Test brake system operation
   With engine running, apply firm pedal pressure and verify brake pedal does not sink slowly to floor (indicates master cylinder or hydraulic leak). Pedal should feel firm with approximately 2-3 inches of travel before substantial resistance. Check parking brake holds vehicle on incline or resists vehicle movement when engaged. Verify brake warning light illuminates with key on/engine off and extinguishes after engine start with parking brake released. Inspect brake fluid level in reservoir - should be between MIN and MAX marks with the manufacturer-specified brake fluid (verify DOT 3 per Viper owner's manual).
5. 5

   Perform OBD-II emission system check
   Connect OBD-II scanner to diagnostic port located under driver side of dashboard. With ignition on, check for stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) - any emissions-related codes will cause inspection failure in most states. Verify Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL/Check Engine Light) illuminates during bulb check and extinguishes after engine start. Check readiness monitors status - most states allow 1-2 monitors to be 'Not Ready' but verify specific requirements. The 2005 Viper monitors typically include: Catalyst, Evaporative System, Oxygen Sensor, and Oxygen Sensor Heater monitors (Secondary Air System is not equipped on this engine); verify supported monitors with the scan tool. If monitors are not set, vehicle may need to complete drive cycle.
6. 6

   Inspect steering and suspension components
   Raise vehicle on lift and secure properly. With wheels hanging free, grasp each front tire at 12 and 6 o'clock positions and attempt to rock vertically - excessive movement indicates worn ball joints or wheel bearings. Grasp at 3 and 9 o'clock and rock horizontally - excessive play indicates worn tie rod ends or steering linkage. Visually inspect all suspension components for damage, excessive wear, or leaking dampers. Check front lower control arms, upper control arms, and all bushings for deterioration or separation. Inspect steering rack boots for tears or leaks. Verify power steering fluid level is adequate and check for leaks at pump, hoses, and rack.
7. 7

   Inspect brake components and hydraulic lines
   With vehicle raised, remove all four wheels. Inspect brake rotors for excessive scoring, heat cracks, or thickness below minimum specification (typically stamped on rotor). Measure brake pad thickness at thinnest point - minimum acceptable is typically 2mm or 1/16 inch above backing plate. Check for uneven pad wear between inner and outer pads. Inspect brake calipers for leaks at piston seals and bleeder screws. Examine all brake lines and rubber hoses for corrosion, damage, bulging, or fluid leaks. Verify brake hoses are not contacting suspension or steering components during full articulation. Reinstall wheels and torque lug nuts in star pattern.
8. 8

   Inspect exhaust system and underbody
   With vehicle raised, visually inspect entire exhaust system from manifolds to rear tips. Check for leaks at gasket joints, corrosion holes, or loose/damaged hangers. Verify catalytic converters are present and appear original (not hollowed out or removed). Inspect heat shields for damage or loose mounting. Check fuel lines, fuel tank, and evaporative emission system components for leaks, damage, or corrosion. Inspect driveshaft and U-joints for wear or looseness. Examine the rear differential and the Tremec T56 manual transmission for fluid leaks. Check engine oil pan and drain plug for leaks.
9. 9

   Check seat belts and interior safety equipment
   Test both driver and passenger seat belts - verify they extend smoothly and retract fully without binding. Check buckle latches engage and release properly. Inspect webbing for fraying, cuts, or excessive wear. Verify seat belt anchors are securely mounted. Test driver and passenger airbag warning lights illuminate during bulb check (key on/engine off) and extinguish after engine start - continuous illumination indicates airbag system fault. Check that both seats are securely mounted and do not move excessively on their tracks.
10. 10

    Test drive and final verification
    Lower vehicle from lift and perform test drive on level road. Apply brakes firmly from 30-40 mph - vehicle should stop in straight line without pulling left or right. Listen for unusual brake noises (grinding, squealing, or pulsation through pedal). Test steering response - should be smooth without excessive play or binding. Verify no unusual vibrations at highway speeds. Check that transmission shifts smoothly through all gears without slipping or hard engagement. Listen for exhaust leaks during acceleration. Verify all dashboard warning lights remain off during normal operation.
11. 11

    Document inspection results
    Complete state inspection form documenting all systems checked and their pass/fail status. Note any advisory items that do not cause immediate failure but will require attention. Record odometer reading, VIN verification, and inspection date. If vehicle passes all requirements, affix state inspection sticker per local regulations. If vehicle fails any items, provide detailed list of required repairs to customer and indicate inspection cannot be completed until repairs are made and vehicle is re-inspected.

Reassembly

1. No disassembly required for standard state inspection - all components remain installed during inspection process.
2. If wheels were removed for brake inspection, ensure lug nuts are torqued properly in star pattern to manufacturer specification.
3. Verify all inspection equipment is removed from vehicle including OBD-II scanner and any test instruments.

Verification

• Review completed inspection form to ensure all required items have been checked and documented.
• Verify no warning lights are illuminated on dashboard after test drive.
• Confirm OBD-II system shows no stored trouble codes and required readiness monitors are set.
• If inspection sticker was applied, verify it is properly affixed and all documentation is complete for state records.

More procedures for this vehicle