
Complete regulatory inspection
Road vehicles with GVWR of 4,500 kg or mores
Centre du Véhicule Chartrand is an SAAQ-authorized inspection agent for heavy road vehicles. In Laval, we carry out mandatory inspections for any vehicle with a GVWR of 4,500 kg or more.
Our inspections include several types of verification:
- Mechanical inspection (visual check of essential components)
- Photometric inspection (tinted window compliance)
- Preventive mechanical inspection (Preventive Maintenance Program – PEP)
Mechanical inspection consists of a visual, non-invasive check of key systems and components. It focuses only on the elements listed in the Highway Safety Code and the Regulation respecting safety standards for road vehicles. This is NOT a full mechanical evaluation or warranty of the vehicle’s overall condition.
Thanks to our certified inspection service, you can be sure your heavy vehicle complies with SAAQ requirements, meets safety standards, and is fully authorized for use on Quebec roads.
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Fast and certified SAAQ inspection
When does a heavy vehicle need inspection?
Obligations according to SAAQ regulations
According to SAAQ regulations, heavy vehicle owners must follow specific timelines for mechanical inspections.
Here are common scenarios where an inspection is required:
- Commissioning of a new or imported heavy vehicle or truck
- Registration renewal requiring inspection
- Compliance with the Preventive Maintenance Program (PEP)
- Mandatory periodic inspections (every 6 or 12 months depending on vehicle type)
- Technical evaluation after an accident or a refusal (VGA)
These are general guidelines only. Rules may vary according to vehicle type, purpose or configuration. For complete requirements, consult the vehicles listed on the SAAQ website.


Questions about your obligations or other services?
Call our team for a quick confirmation
Targeted heavy vehicles
SAAQ compliant mechanical inspection
Centre du Véhicule Chartrand, an official SAAQ vehicle inspection representative, inspects a wide range of heavy vehicles based on SAAQ criteria.
Here are the main types of vehicles we inspect at our Laval center:
- 2-axle vehicles — Standard commercial trucks
- 3-axle vehicles — 10-wheel construction or transport trucks
- 4-axle vehicles — 12-wheel high-capacity trucks
- 1- or 2-axle trailers — Utility or commercial trailers
- 3-axle trailers — Medium-capacity trailers
- 4-axle trailers — Heavy-duty trailers for high-weight loads
- Buses or minibuses — Public transport vehicles
- Motor coaches — Intercity or long-distance coaches
- Motorhomes — Recreational vehicles or travel trailers
Mechanical inspection comes to you
Mobile Unit for heavy vehicle inspections
This service is available for trailers or semi-trailers and, in specific approved cases, certain types of trucks.
Centre du Véhicule Chartrand offers a mobile unit service to carry out inspections directly at your location.
Contact us to check availability and schedule a visit.
Prepare your vehicle
Before your appointment
Before your inspection, check these key elements. A quick check can save you a re-inspection and valuable time:
5 key checks:
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Lights and signals:
Make sure all lights are functional (brake, turn signals, position, license plate).
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Coupling & trailer:
Verify fifth wheel locking and electrical connection between truck and trailer.
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Tires:
Check pressure, tread wear, sidewall condition, and dual tire spacing.
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Doors, windows, mirrors:
Ensure nothing is cracked or loose and that visibility is optimal.
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Braking system:
Listen for air leaks and confirm that warning lights work properly.