Regular Vehicle Inspection in Finland
In Finland, regular vehicle inspection is mandatory. All vehicles must pass a periodic inspection, known as the Katsastus, to ensure they are roadworthy and meet national safety and environmental standards. The inspection covers aspects such as brakes, lights, suspension, tires, and emissions control.
The inspection is carried out by authorized private companies or by the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom), and a valid inspection certificate is required to renew the vehicle registration.
Equivalent to the British MOT in Finland
The Katsastus can be considered as the equivalent of the British MOT, as both inspections aim to ensure that vehicles are in good condition and comply with national safety and emissions standards. However, the Katsastus in Finland is more focused on emissions control than the MOT.
It is worth noting that the Katsastus is mandatory for all vehicles in Finland, regardless of their age, while the MOT is only required for vehicles that are over three years old in the UK.
General Standard of Vehicle Maintenance and Repair in Finland
The general standard of vehicle maintenance and repair in Finland is high. There are many skilled and experienced mechanics and garages that provide high-quality services, and the use of genuine parts and equipment is common.
It is recommended to take your vehicle to a reputable and licensed mechanic or garage that uses genuine parts and equipment. This will ensure that your vehicle is repaired to the highest standards and remains safe and reliable on the road.
Major Accident Breakdown Companies and Motoring Organisations in Finland
There are several major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations in Finland that provide roadside assistance, breakdown recovery, and other services to motorists. Here are some of the most prominent ones:
1. Falck
Falck is a leading provider of emergency and roadside assistance services in Finland. The company operates a network of service providers throughout the country and provides 24/7 assistance to motorists in case of breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies.
Falck’s services include towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and other mechanical assistance. The company also provides travel assistance services, such as medical referrals, legal assistance, and language interpretation.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.falck.fi/
- Phone: 0203 0303 (local) or +358 20 303 030 (international)
2. Finnish Automobile Federation
The Finnish Automobile Federation (Autoliitto) is a non-profit organization that represents the interests of motorists in Finland. The federation provides a range of services to its members, including legal and regulatory advice, training and education, and other services.
The Finnish Automobile Federation also operates a roadside assistance program that provides 24/7 assistance to its members in case of breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies. The program includes towing, vehicle recovery, and other services.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.autoliitto.fi/
- Phone: +358 9 7258 5400
3. Viking Motors
Viking Motors is a leading provider of roadside assistance and breakdown recovery services in Finland. The company operates a fleet of service vehicles throughout the country and provides 24/7 assistance to motorists in case of breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies.
Viking Motors’ services include towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and other mechanical assistance. The company also provides travel assistance services, such as medical referrals, legal assistance, and language interpretation.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.vikingmotors.fi/
- Phone: 0201 222 222 (local) or +358 201 222 222 (international)
4. If Vahinkovakuutusyhtiö
If Vahinkovakuutusyhtiö is one of the largest insurance companies in Finland, offering a range of insurance products and services, including motor insurance. The company also provides roadside assistance and breakdown recovery services to its policyholders.
If Vahinkovakuutusyhtiö’s roadside assistance program includes services such as towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, and fuel delivery. The program is available 24/7 and covers all regions of Finland.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.if.fi/
- Phone: +358 9 2530 1000
5. OP Insurance
OP Insurance is a leading insurance company in Finland, offering a range of insurance products and services, including motor insurance. The company also provides roadside assistance and breakdown recovery services to its policyholders.
OP Insurance’s roadside assistance program includes services such as towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, and fuel delivery. The program is available 24/7 and covers all regions of Finland.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.op.fi/
- Phone: +358 10 252 010
In conclusion, regular vehicle inspection is mandatory in Finland, and all vehicles must pass the Katsastus every year to ensure they are roadworthy and meet national safety and environmental standards. The general standard of vehicle maintenance and repair in Finland is high, so it is recommended to take your vehicle to a reputable and licensed mechanic or garage that uses genuine parts and equipment.
There are several major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations in Finland that provide roadside assistance, breakdown recovery, and other services to motorists. Falck, Finnish Automobile Federation, Viking Motors, If Vahinkovakuutusyhtiö, and OP Insurance are some of the most prominent ones, and their contact details have been provided for easy reference. By utilizing their services, motorists can ensure that they have access to assistance in case of emergencies and breakdowns while driving on Finland’s roads.