"Jeroen Wenting" jwenting at hornet dot demon dot nl wrote in
:

Think about it. If your car had an expired inspection and you ran a
stop sign causing damage, do you think your car insurance would NOT
cover you?

Small difference.
Car maintenance isn't required by law (I know in many places a minimum
maintenance level for certain safety related things is required but
nothing requires you to have maintenance performed at set intervals).
For aircraft maintenance is required by law.

In New York and New Jersey an inspection is required. Most cars must pass
inspection at least once every 12 months. I think some newer cars are
allowed longer...

If during the inspection it is determined that the car requires
maintenance, for example needs new brakes or has a broken taillight, it
will fail inspection unless the problem is repaired. In New Jersey, it's a
big hassle because the inspectors work for the DMV, and don't do repairs on
site. In New York, it's a bit easier because most service centers can get
certified as state inspectors. I'm not sure what state you are in that
doesn't require some sort of vehicle inspection, but then they don't let us
carry guns in NY either.