The MFK (Motorfahrzeugkontrolle, the Swiss periodic vehicle inspection) checks your car for road safety, compliance with regulations and environmental performance. What many people underestimate: the vehicle must be presented clean. Here you'll find what officially applies and how to prepare your car. The requirements of your cantonal road traffic office and the details in your inspection notice are always authoritative.
What the road traffic office requires
On its official vehicle inspection page, the Canton of Zurich states: the vehicle must comply with regulations, be roadworthy and cleaned, and must be presented at operating temperature. If the vehicle is heavily soiled, the inspection cannot be completed. The office also recommends having the vehicle prepared by a specialist garage. Other cantons may have their own requirements – read your notice carefully.
Why cleanliness matters for the inspection
Among other things, the inspector assesses rust, lines, axle parts and leaks on the underbody. That's hardly possible under a layer of dirt and salt. For the same reason, you shouldn't apply fresh underbody protection right before the inspection.
Cleaning checklist before the MFK
- Underbody and wheel arches: have them cleaned in an approved car wash with an underbody programme or – if heavily soiled – on a lift at a garage. More: cleaning the underbody.
- Exterior wash: wash the paint, wheels and sills thoroughly.
- Windows, mirrors and lights: clear visibility and clean headlights – with 7WASH Glass Cleaner and a lint-free microfibre cloth.
- Clean the number plates so they are easy to read.
- Interior: clear out, vacuum and clean the dashboard, e.g. with 7WASH Interior Cleaner. Seat belts, pedals and controls must be freely accessible.
Don't forget the documents
According to the Canton of Zurich, the vehicle registration document and related papers are required for the inspection; for older vehicles without a recognised OBD system, the exhaust maintenance document as well. The exact list is in your notice.
Cleaning doesn't replace technical preparation
A clean appearance is only one part. It's best to have the brakes, lights, tyres, steering and suspension checked beforehand at a garage.
Frequently asked questions
Does the car have to be washed for the MFK?
Yes. The Canton of Zurich requires a cleaned vehicle; if it is heavily soiled, the inspection cannot be completed. Check your canton's requirements.
Is a normal car wash enough?
For the exterior, often yes. If the underbody is heavily soiled, cleaning on a lift at a garage is more thorough.
Should I apply underbody protection before the MFK?
Not right before. Fresh underbody protection can hide the condition the inspection centre needs to assess.
Source: Canton of Zurich, Road Traffic Office, "Fahrzeugprüfung" (zh.ch). As of October 2026.