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How Much Does a Safety Inspection Cost in Ontario - Greenway Auto Recycling

How Much Does a Safety Inspection Cost in Ontario?

Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Aug 12, 2025

Car Safety Inspection Ontario

If you are planning to buy or sell a car in Ontario, a valid car safety standard certificate is a must. A car safety inspection in Ontario is important because it’s directly connected to driver and pedestrian safety. The first question that may come to your mind is: How much does a car safety inspection cost? So, before revealing the cost, let’s first discuss some other points related to car safety inspection.

What is a Safety Standard Certificate?

A ‘Safety Standard Certificate’ or SSC is a document that states your car passes the safety inspection. A car safety inspection is a regular checkup to see if the car is meeting the basic safety criteria to drive in Canada. Having a valid Safety Standard Certificate is a must if you are willing to:

    1. Registering a rebuilt car.
    2. Transferring ownership of a used car.
    3. Updating the car’s status

Also, with this certificate, you can drive your old car anywhere in Canada. And, this SSC is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance.

Parts Checked During Safety Inspection

The following auto parts are undergoing the car safety inspection checklist:

    • Braking system
    • Lights
    • Signals
    • Steering and suspension
    • Tires and wheels
    • Windows and windshields
    • Doors and seats
    • Fuel system
    • Exhaust system

If any of the above auto parts do not meet the inspection criteria, then the car will fail its safety inspection, and you will need to repair it.

Also Read: Do I Need a Safety Inspection to Sell My Car ‘As Is’ in Ontario?

Car Safety Inspection Cost in Ontario

The cost of a car safety inspection in Ontario depends on the following 3 factors:

    1. Location: The cost of inspection is different in every city and town because of different labor rates.
    2. Vehicle Type: Large vehicles might have a higher inspection cost.
    3. Repair Facility: You will see some inspection agencies that might offer packaged services, which can change the overall cost of the inspection.

If you want to know the exact car safety inspection cost, then it can range between $100 to $150. But if your vehicle fails the test, then you have to spend some extra dollars on repairs, and after that, your car will be re-inspected.

Why is a Safety Inspection Important?

A safety inspection is only a regular checkup, but it is important because

    1. Safety: The main perk of the inspection is that it gives a green signal that the vehicle is safe to ride.
    2. Vehicle Lifespan: If your vehicle has any mechanical issues, then regular inspections can help you identify them at an early stage. 
    3. Economic Savings: If you see any problem in your current car, you can repair it without things going out of control and save lots of dollars.
    4. Environmental Concerns: The good condition of the car means it’s going to harm the environment less. During inspection, your car will also undergo an emission test. If it passes the emission tests, it means it’s doing very little harm to the environment.

Also Read: How Do I Get Rid of My Old Car in Toronto?

Final Thoughts and How Greenway Auto Recycling Can Help

Now you know that safety inspection is so important, and every car owner should have a safety standard certificate before selling them. Many times, your car will not run for any serious reason, like an engine failure. For that reason, you have only one option to change the engine. That’s when it makes sense to scrap your old car and get top dollar for it.

Greenway Auto Recycling is here to give you the best price for your scrap car. We buy all types of vehicles, SUVs, sedans, crossovers, vans, and more. So, if you have a junk car, it’s time to sell it for scrap for good money. We promise to take care of your car in the best way and offer you smooth services.

Also, we believe in the green earth and follow eco-friendly scrap car disposal rather than increasing carbon footprints. That’s why we are telling you that safety inspections are important, so that you can make a decision

Ready to scrap your car? Call (416) 783-9026 now — we’ll walk you through the simple process and pay you cash on the spot! We will pay on-the-spot cash for your scrap car.

Note: Prices and regulations mentioned in this blog might change based on provincial guidelines and market fluctuations.

Always consult with the official provincial authorities and trusted repair facilities for the most up-to-date information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a Safety Standards Certificate (SSC) in Ontario?

A Safety Standards Certificate (SSC) is issued by a licensed mechanic to confirm that your vehicle meets Ontario’s minimum safety standards. You’ll typically need it when registering a rebuilt vehicle, transferring ownership to a buyer who will drive it, or changing the vehicle’s status to “fit.”

2. How long is the Safety Standards Certificate valid for?

In Ontario, an SSC is valid for 36 days from the date of inspection for registration or ownership transfer purposes. After this period, you’ll need a new inspection.

3. What is the safety inspection cost in Ontario?

The cost of a safety inspection in Ontario generally ranges from $90 to $200, depending on the shop, your location, and the type of vehicle.

4. What happens if my vehicle fails the safety inspection?

If your vehicle fails, the mechanic will give you a report listing all issues. You can repair the vehicle at the same shop or elsewhere, then return for a re-inspection. The SSC will only be issued once all safety requirements are met.

5. Do I need a safety inspection every year for my vehicle?

Most personal vehicles in Ontario do not require annual safety inspections. You generally need an SSC only for registration, ownership transfer, or when changing the vehicle’s status. The certificate is valid for 36 days from the date it’s issued.

6. Can I sell my vehicle without a safety inspection?

Yes, you can sell a vehicle without a Safety Standards Certificate. However, the new owner will not be able to register it for road use until they obtain their own SSC.

7. My car failed its safety inspection and needs expensive repairs. What are the other options?

If repair costs exceed your car’s value, selling it to a trusted scrap car buyer like Greenway Auto Recycling can be a smart choice. We buy vehicles in any condition, pay you top dollar, and handle all the paperwork.

8. How do I contact Greenway Auto Recycling if I decide to sell my scrap car?

You can reach Greenway Auto Recycling at (416) 783-9026 or email contact@greenwayautorecycling.com. We’ll offer you the best price for your vehicle and make the process fast and hassle-free.

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