auto inspection violations?

[Quick]

We operate a quick lube and perform state safety/emissions inspections. We recently received our third violation in a 36 month period, and are now in jeopardy of having our inspection license suspended for 90 days. The state official who issued the citation stated that we can appeal the suspension, but also said "but you won't win". Has anyone else been in this situation and if so, what advice can you give to avoid the suspension. Thanks for your input.

Quick

 

[mjc3333]

3 strikes and you're out.

What did you do about the first 2 violations?

I have a service center and a used auto store. PA is not much different than other states. Depending on the type of violation, the state can suspend or even revoke your license. You have to find the state vehicle code to find out each violation and its corresponding punishment. One violation; you may get a warning. 2 violations maybe a fine. 3 or more .............

I would have to say that because you already had 2 violations; once the third was issued, you may be in the "can't win column" as far as the state is concerned.

 

[MEP001]

Why are there violations occurring?

 

[Waxman]

Is it because the employees are willing to bend certain rules in exchange for tips?

I have heard of that happening before.

 

[pitzerwm]

The same type of thing exist with a bar. if the employee sells to a minor, the bar is fined and if repeated lose their license.

 

[Quick]

The violations have occurred when a state "secret shopper" comes in to get a car inspected and has something minor wrong with the car. In this recent incident the car's engine light did not come on when the car was started by our technician. The light was apparently disabled to see if our technician would catch it. Unfortunately our guy missed it, and now we have to try to appeal the state's decision.

 

[mjc3333]

Each state makes it harder and harder to run a business. Even though they may be right, tech did not catch something, they ultimately don't care.

 

[Dublin21]

My advice for any future violations is that you try and learn as much as you can from the very first one by asking the city administrator who's cited you. Get a detailed explanation, whether it's improper working conditions, broken equipment or something along the lines of unethical practice.