Swiss specifics
The MFK test: procedure, costs, checklist
The MFK (Motorfahrzeugkontrolle) is Switzerland's periodic roadworthiness test, and every car has to go through it. But what exactly is checked, how do you prepare and what does it cost? Here is the full checklist and the procedure step by step.
What is the MFK test?
The Motorfahrzeugkontrolle (MFK) is the periodic technical inspection of vehicles used on Swiss public roads. It is carried out by the cantonal inspection authorities and checks whether a vehicle meets the legal safety and environmental standards.
The MFK should not be confused with registration: a vehicle may only be driven on Swiss public roads once it has passed the MFK and been registered.
How often does a car need an MFK?
| Test | Interval |
|---|---|
| 1st MFK | 5 years after first registration |
| 2nd MFK | 3 years after the first test |
| Every MFK after that | every 2 years |
The legal basis is the Ordinance on the Technical Requirements for Road Vehicles (VTS, Art. 33) together with the summons issued by the cantonal road traffic offices (Strassenverkehrsamt).
What gets checked during the MFK?
The test covers more than 30 individual points, grouped into the following categories:
- Lighting: headlights, tail lights, indicators, fog lights, headlight levelling
- Braking system: braking performance, brake force distribution, handbrake, discs and pads
- Steering and suspension: track rods, shock absorbers, wheel bearings, tyre tread and condition
- Bodywork: rust damage, damage to load-bearing structures, doors and bonnets
- Exhaust and emissions: emission values, soot particles, noise, catalytic converter
- Safety equipment: seat belts, airbags, child seat anchorages (Isofix), windscreen wipers
- Documents and identification: chassis number, type approval certificate, COC documents
- Check all the lights, fog lights included
- Measure the tyre tread (at least 1.6 mm, 3 mm recommended)
- Top up the washer fluid and check the wipers
- Take warning lights on the dashboard seriously
- Look for rust and past body repairs
- Have the service booklet and papers ready
What does the MFK cost in Switzerland?
What you pay depends on the canton and the inspection authority:
- Basic MFK fee: about 60 to 120 CHF
- Re-test after defects: about 30 to 60 CHF
- Emissions test (where required): about 50 to 100 CHF
- Repair costs for defects: variable
Buying a used car: what to look for on the MFK
When you buy a used car, check whether the last MFK was passed and when the next one is due. A car with a fresh MFK is generally the safer buy. At FlexiMoto every vehicle goes through the MFK before handover — that saves you time, money and surprises.
FlexiMoto: MFK included
Every vehicle at FlexiMoto is MFK-tested and registered in Switzerland before delivery. You do not have to arrange inspection appointments, follow-up work or registration paperwork. We deliver the car to your door, ready to drive and with complete documents.
Frequently asked questions
What does the MFK test cost in Switzerland?
The Motorfahrzeugkontrolle (MFK) usually costs between 60 and 120 francs in Switzerland, depending on the canton and the inspection centre. On top of that come any follow-up work or repairs if defects are found. At FlexiMoto the MFK is included in the purchase.
How often does a car have to go for an MFK?
In Switzerland a passenger car goes for its first MFK 5 years after it was first registered, the second test follows 3 years later, and after that every 2 years (Art. 33 VTS). Electric cars follow the same intervals, even though they often show less mechanical wear.
What happens if the car fails the MFK?
If defects are found you receive an inspection report with deadlines for putting them right. Minor defects have to be fixed within days or weeks. With serious defects the vehicle may not be used on public roads until it has passed the re-test.
Related guides
- Vehicle tax – Canton comparison and tax tips.
- Car insurance – Liability, partial and full comprehensive cover.
- Vignette 2026 – Price, where to buy, e-vignette.
- To the vehicle marketplace – MFK-tested vehicles at FlexiMoto.