Dear Editor:
I took my car for AirCare inspection, in order to renew my insurance. Once again, even though it is now an old practice, the futile system left me incredibly frustrated.
The entire test routine was over in approximately five minutes, at which time I was told that my car had passed the inspection and the charges for it would be $45.
I was also told that vehicles 1992 or newer are required to be inspected only biennially, and since my vehicle fell under that criteria, I would be good until 2013.
Vehicles 1991 and older require inspection annually, and the cost for each year/ service, assuming they pass the test, is $23. My question is, if I use their service only once every two years, why must I be made to pay the equivalent of two inspections?
If I remember correctly, the AirCare inspection was introduced in attempting to reduce air pollution, and while I have nothing against trying to keep our air clean, this clearly is one more mendacious way for the government to take money from the people. In my opinion, nothing more than legal theft.
Frank DiCesare,
Burnaby
