What signs should I look for, I'm taking my 1999 Buick for a state inspection, I don't want to be lied to....?

Question

Or ripped off by them saying I need something MAJOR repaired when I really don't.

Answer 1

First and foremost, make sure you trust the garage where you are taking your car.  Ask friends, family, or co-workers for recommendations before you go.  Check the obvious stuff yourself first: lights (brakes, blinkers, backup, headlights), wipers, horn, etc.  Make sure everything you can check works before you bring it.  if they say your back up lights aren't working and you just checked them then you know they are lying or fraudulent.

Most states will allow you to drive with a 'failed' inspection sticker for a short amount of time (30 days in mass).  So if they say you need a large repair or a repair that you can't check yourself (oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, etc), ask for an estimate, have them put a 'rejected' sticker on the car and go get another estimate for the same repairs.