The Swiss MFK: information about vehicle inspections
What is the Motor Vehicle Inspection (MFK) and when is it due? How much should I expect to pay? What will be inspected? Comparis explains.
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1. The MFK: what you need to know
The motor vehicle inspection (MFK) is a mandatory vehicle check in Switzerland. It ensures that all vehicles meet the legal requirements for operational safety.
The test includes technical and safety-related aspects. If an inspection is required, the competent cantonal Road Traffic Office will notify you.
Costs for the MFK
The cost of the MFK depends on the vehicle and the canton. You can expect it to cost between 50 and 70 francs. You can find the prices for your canton on the respective website of the Road Traffic Office.
2. The MFK: how often do I have to go?
Every vehicle is inspected at regular intervals. You will receive a written notice from the cantonal Road Traffic Office to present your vehicle for inspection.
The following applies to passenger cars and motorcycles:
1st inspection: 5 years after the first registration of a new car
2nd inspection: 3 years after the 1st inspection
Then: an inspection every 2 years
A change of owner has no influence on the due date of the test in the first ten years of service. Was the vehicle registered over ten years ago and was the last test more than a year ago? Then it will be called in for a check after a change of owner.
3. Who performs the inspection?
The MFK can take place either in a regional test centre of the cantonal Road Traffic Office or at an authorized private garage. Ask the Road Traffic Office what applies in your canton.
Road Traffic Offices by canton
4. The MFK: what is being checked?
The vehicle inspection tests your vehicle for roadworthiness and operational safety. The MFK also determines whether the vehicle is environmentally friendly.
Important test criteria are:
Brakes: functionality and wear of the brake system.
Lights: check of the lights, headlights and turn signals.
Steering: checking for ease of movement.
Chassis: condition of the axles, wheels and suspension.
Body: check for rust and damage that could affect safety.
Emissions: measurement of exhaust gas values to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Electrical system: functionality of the electrical systems such as windscreen wipers, horn and heating.
Vehicle identification: presence of all necessary documents and markings.
If your vehicle does not pass the MFK, it must go back for a follow-up inspection. You usually have to do this within 30 days. You must arrange a follow-up inspection appointment yourself. You will also have to pay for the costs of the re-test yourself.
Your vehicle has only minor defects? Some cantons allow you to have the necessary repairs made at your local garage. However, the Road Traffic Office will request confirmation of this.
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5. How do I prepare for the MFK?
Your vehicle must be technically sound and clean for the vehicle inspection. You are responsible for carrying out necessary repairs beforehand. A service at a garage can therefore be worthwhile. Many garages offer different service packages specifically for the MFK.
In addition to preparations on the vehicle itself, you must bring certain documents with you to the MFK. These can include:
Vehicle registration
Exhaust test results (does not apply to vehicles with a recognized OBD system)
Tuning report (applies to tuned vehicles) (link not available in English)
This article was first published on 02.07.2024
