-- main --
### title
Car Inspection and Maintenance

### summary
[📅](3–2–1|Inspection schedule)
[⛽](LPG/CNG|Annual check)

### description
Technical inspections and routine maintenance keep your vehicle legal and safe. In Poland, periodic inspections are done at authorized stations (Stacja Kontroli Pojazdów, SKP). New passenger cars follow a 3–2–1 schedule (first after 3 years, next after 2 years, then every year). Vehicles with LPG/CNG require inspection every year from first registration.

### benefits
**Legal compliance**
Stay roadworthy and avoid fines
---
**Safety and reliability**
Fewer breakdowns and safer driving
---
**Higher resale value**
Documented service history builds trust
---
**Insurance confidence**
Fewer claim disputes with valid checks
---
**Lower repair costs**
Early fault detection saves money

### common mistakes
**Driving with expired inspection**
Renew on time (usually yearly)
---
**Ignoring recalls**
Check manufacturer notices
---
**Burnt bulbs / illegal LED swaps**
Replace like-for-like; ensure aim and all lights work
---
**Worn or mismatched tires**
Tread must be ≥ 1.6 mm; same size per axle
---
**Warning lights on (ABS/Airbag/Check Engine)**
Fix faults; OBD/emissions failures lead to a negative result
---
**Cracked windshield in the driver’s field**
Can cause failure; repair/replace before SKP
---
**Expired LPG tank approval**
LPG systems are checked; out-of-date tanks cause failure

### checklist
**Registration document and previous inspection**
---
**Payment for inspection**
---
**For LPG/CNG**
installation certificate and valid tank approval date
---
**Card or cash for payment (some SKP may not accept all methods)**
---
**Periodic inspection**
at an authorized station (Stacja Kontroli Pojazdów).
---
**Fix defects**
if inspection fails; repeat check.
---
**Keep records**
and service on schedule (oil, brakes, tires).
---
**Know the timeline**
New car: 3 years, then 2 years, then annually (3–2–1). LPG/CNG: annually from first registration.
---
**Pre-check before SKP**
Lights, horn, wipers/washer, tires (≥1.6 mm), leaks, brakes; warm engine for emissions.
---
**Understand outcomes**
Positive or negative with listed defects. Retest within 14 days at the same station allows a partial retest.
---
**Typical costs (passenger car)**
Around 99 PLN; LPG/CNG surcharge about 63 PLN; partial retest fees vary by item—confirm at your SKP.
---
**Service intervals (quick guide)**
Oil 10–15k km/12 mo; brake fluid 2 yrs; coolant 3–5 yrs; air filter 15–30k km; cabin filter 12 mo; spark plugs 60–100k km; timing belt 60–120k km or 5–7 yrs (per manual).
### links
[Vehicle history (CEPiK)](https://historiapojazdu.gov.pl/)
[EU Safety Gate (recalls)](https://ec.europa.eu/safety-gate/#/screen/home)
-- end main --