Safety Inspections for your vehicle

Shawn Gilfillan • July 24, 2020

WHO'S LOOKING OUT FOR YOUR SAFETY WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR VEHICLE?


So you were most likely taught to look both ways before you cross the road. Tie your shoes so you don’t trip. Your parents instilled in you the importance of safety, and warned you of the dangers that might fall upon you if you didn’t take precautions.


VEHICLE SAFETY

So here we are in 2020 relearning to wash our hands, cover our mouths and keep our distance. These are all steps to keep ourselves safe and they all seem a little deja vu-ish if you ask most people (mama told you so.)


Single Mother Apple Emoji transparent PNG - StickPNG In New Jersey the state used to require safety regulations to enforce Mama’s fine and early teachings. They were imperative for you to be able to pass NJ state inspections.

If your vehicle fell short of the requirements they slapped a big red rejection sticker in your windshield.. Ever present are long lines as the NJMVC reopen. Inspection stickers are dating back to February and March of this year and there’s a chance that when you go to get that task taken care of you are going to be sitting in a very long line. In August of 2010 Governor Christie changed the law and safety inspection are no longer needed.

NJMVC Logo

Only emissions inspections are now required to be done every two years for passenger vehicles. Commercial vehicles still have to pass the safety and emissions inspection every year. Inspection in NJ is free for passenger vehicles if you go to the NJ Motor Vehicle Inspection facilities.


There are private inspection facilities you can go to that are regulated by the NJMVC. These facilities are certified and convenient however they do charge a fee for inspection. Considering the length of the lines and the time required to sit idle and patiently, you may find that the fee is worth paying. Locate your PIF in NJ.


So, who’s making sure you tied your shoes and that you looked both ways when it comes to your vehicle safety now? WE ARE!


MULTI POINT VEHICLE HEALTH INSPECTION

UNDER HOOD / UNDER VEHICLE /TEST DRIVE 


  • Brakes
  • Tires
  • Suspension System
  • Exhaust System
  • Steering Components
  • All Fluids
  • All Filters
  • HVAC Operation
  • Electrical System
  • Horn
  • Lights
  • Wipers
  • And More..


Every time you come in for service on your vehicle we do a full safety check on it. You may think that you are just coming in for an oil change, you may be surprised to find out that we inspect your vehicle to make sure that you are aware of anything that will compromise your safety. We make certain that you are informed of maintenance that will help improve the condition of your vehicle and even extend the life of it based on the manufacturers recommendations.


We want you to be safe driving and by investing a little extra time to inspect your vehicle while it’s in for routine services is our way of looking out for you, just like mama would.

Your Automotive Magic Team

Automotive Magic Team
Shawn Gilfillan

Shawn Gilfillan is the dedicated owner of Automotive Magic in Kenvil, NJ. With over two decades of experience, Shawn has led his team in providing expert auto repair and service since 2003. 


In 2022, Magic Lube & Rubber was born in Lake Hopatcong, NJ. Committed to fostering strong community ties and supporting team development, Shawn prioritizes customer satisfaction above all. As a proud family man and long-time resident of Roxbury, NJ, Shawn brings a blend of professionalism and warmth to his business. 


Trust Shawn and his team for all your automotive needs with confidence and assurance.

Schedule an Appointment
July 7, 2025
Summer is all about adventure — beach days, weekend getaways, long road trips to places you've been dreaming of all winter. But nothing puts a damper on those big family plans faster than a surprise car issue an hour into the drive. The good news? A quick pre-trip check can go a long way toward keeping everyone safe, stress-free, and focused on the fun ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or just heading to the grandparents’ for a long weekend, here’s a simple, smart checklist to help make sure your vehicle is ready to roll. Before You Pull Out of the Driveway, Take a Few Minutes to Check: Your Tires Tires are one of the easiest things to overlook — until something goes wrong. Make sure all four (plus the spare!) are properly inflated. Check your owner’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s door for the right pressure. Do the “quarter test” for tread depth — stick a quarter into the tread with Washington’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires. Look for any visible cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. That kind of damage is a warning sign worth listening to. Well-maintained tires mean better handling, better gas mileage, and a whole lot less stress on the road. Windshield Wipers & Washer Fluid Is there anything more annoying than trying to see through a streaky windshield while your kids are arguing about snacks in the back? ✔️ If your wipers squeak, skip, or smear, it’s time for a new set. ✔️ Top off your washer fluid so you can clear away bugs, pollen, or sudden summer showers with ease. Visibility matters — especially when driving in unfamiliar places or late at night. All the Fluids (Yes, More Than Just Oil) Your vehicle needs more than fuel to function safely. Give these a quick look: Engine oil – clean and at the right level? Coolant – helps prevent overheating on hot summer drives Brake fluid – vital for safe stopping Transmission fluid Windshield washer fluid – yes, again! It’s worth repeating. Don’t stress if you're not sure what you’re looking at — a trusted shop can give these a once-over in minutes. Battery/Alternator Health You don’t want to find out your battery’s on its last leg in the middle of a scenic overlook. Is your car slow to start lately? That’s a sign. Check for corrosion around the terminals. If it’s more than 3 years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested before the trip. A strong alternator keeps everything running — including the air conditioning, charging ports, and navigation. Lights & Signals It's easy to miss a burnt-out bulb, but other drivers rely on your lights to predict what you're doing. Test your headlights (low and high beams), brake lights, turn signals, license plate lights, and hazard lights. Have someone help or do a quick walk-around with your lights on. It’s a fast check that makes a big safety difference, especially when traveling unfamiliar roads. Pack These — Just in Case Even with the best prep, things happen. Having these on hand keeps you ready for whatever the road throws your way: Jumper cables A portable tire inflator Tire pressure gauge Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit Bottled water and extra snacks Charging cords Blanket or travel towel (multi-use lifesaver!) Pro Tip: Book a Pre-Trip Inspection Want total peace of mind? Bring your car over to Automotive Magic for a quick pre-trip inspection. A professional can check your brakes, alignment, belts, hoses, and everything else you might not have time (or desire) to inspect yourself. It’s fast, affordable, and worth it. We recommend scheduling your appointment a week in advance to make sure any repairs will be done in time for your trip! You’ve packed the bags, planned the route, and made a solid snack strategy — don’t let a simple car issue sideline your trip. A little preparation today means fewer surprises tomorrow and a lot more time for family fun, scenic photos, and unforgettable memories! Happy travels — and here’s to making memories (not emergency stops)!
June 23, 2025
What’s Changing and Why It Matters
By Automotive Magic June 16, 2025
Expert auto diagnostics & inspections in Kenvil at Automotive Magic. Trust your car with our skilled team. Visit us today for reliable service!
June 12, 2025
Hot Summer Month = Coolant Issues
June 6, 2025
When your vehicle is properly aligned, driving feels smooth, steering is effortless, and your tires wear evenly. But when something’s off—literally—your vehicle will start to give you hints. Alignment issues might seem minor at first, but ignoring them can lead to bigger problems, like accelerated tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even unsafe driving conditions. At Automotive Magic, we believe in catching small problems before they become big ones. Here are the key signs that your alignment may need professional attention:
May 25, 2025
Scouts earn Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge
By Automotive Magic May 21, 2025
Discover outstanding brake repair at Automotive Magic in Kenvil, NJ. Our team ensures safety with top-notch services. Schedule an online appointment now!
AC Machine
May 16, 2025
Summer is almost here—and with it comes road trips, beach days, and unfortunately, sweltering car rides if your air conditioning isn’t up to par. Your A/C system isn’t just about comfort; when it’s blazing hot, it's a necessity. That’s why now is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle’s air conditioning is ready for the heat ahead.
May 5, 2025
Not sure if AWD or 4x4 is right for you? Learn the difference between All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive, how each system works, and which suits your lifestyle best. Expert advice from Automotive Magic.
April 30, 2025
Here's What You Need to Know (And Why It Matters)
More Posts