Car Inspections in Newtown, Done Honestly
Burns' Auto Repair is a licensed Pennsylvania safety and emissions inspection station at 19 N Sycamore Street in Newtown. Pennsylvania requires an inspection once a year, and in Bucks County most vehicles need both a safety inspection and an emissions inspection. We handle both at the same visit.
Our goal isn't to fail vehicles. It's to make sure they're genuinely safe, compliant, and evaluated honestly—the way we've done it for Newtown drivers since 1957.
What the Safety Inspection Checks
Following PennDOT regulations, our certified inspectors look for real safety concerns, not technicalities:
- Brakes – pad thickness, brake lines, and leaks
- Tires – tread depth, dry rot, and sidewall damage
- Steering and suspension – components that affect control and stability
- Lights and electrical – headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and horn
- Glass, wipers, and mirrors – clear visibility with no obstructing cracks
- Exhaust and fuel systems – leaks that could let fumes into the cabin
- Seatbelts
Want to check your car before you come in? See our guide on how to know if your car will pass PA state inspection.
What the Emissions Test Checks
Because we're in the Philadelphia region, emissions standards are stricter here. For most vehicles, the technician connects a scanner to your car's OBD-II port and checks the onboard computer for active faults and readiness. Learn more in what a PA emissions test checks.
If your check engine light is on, your vehicle will fail emissions. Don't clear the code right before your appointment—the system needs time to reset and will show as "not ready." Bring it in first and we'll diagnose the problem and explain your options.
How Long a PA Inspection Takes
For a vehicle in good condition, the inspection itself usually takes around an hour once your car is in the bay. Wait times depend on how busy the shop is, and the end of the month is busiest because that's when many stickers expire. Scheduling ahead, especially earlier in the month, means less waiting. More detail: how long a PA state inspection takes.
What to Bring
- Your current vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance (a digital card on your phone is fine)
- Your wheel lock key, if your car has locking lug nuts
See the full what to bring checklist.
If Your Car Doesn't Pass
If something doesn't meet PennDOT standards, we'll explain exactly what failed and why, and explain what needs immediate attention and what your options are. Because we're a full-service repair shop, most inspection repairs, like tires, brakes, lights, and emissions problems, can be handled right here. You then have a set period to complete repairs and return for re-inspection.
Inspection Hours
We perform inspections Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm and Saturday from 7:00am to 12:00pm. Saturday mornings are a convenient option if your weekdays are busy.
We inspect vehicles for drivers from Newtown, Newtown Township, Yardley, Langhorne, Richboro, Wrightstown, and throughout Bucks County.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can I get my PA inspection?
You can have your vehicle inspected up to 90 days before your sticker expires without losing any time on the new sticker.
Can I get my car inspected on a Saturday?
Yes. Burns' Auto Repair performs inspections on Saturday from 7:00am to 12:00pm, in addition to Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Will my car fail inspection if the check engine light is on?
For vehicles subject to emissions testing, yes. An illuminated check engine light will typically cause an emissions failure. Have it diagnosed before your inspection so you know what you're dealing with.
Does my car need emissions testing in Bucks County?
Most vehicles registered in Bucks County need both a safety and an emissions inspection. Some low-mileage vehicles may qualify for an emissions exemption, so give us a call and we'll check for you.
What happens if my inspection sticker is expired?
Driving with an expired inspection sticker in Pennsylvania can result in a traffic citation. If yours has lapsed, call us to get scheduled as soon as possible.