What is emissions inspection

Used on and newer light duty vehicles only, engine operating data is accessed by connecting directly to a computer in the vehicle that continuously monitors engine emission control systems operation.

The on-board diagnostic test can identify problems before they lead to engine damage and emissions system failure. Diesel vehicles are tested for opacity smoke density. The test uses an opacity meter, which is an instrument that measures the percentage of opacity of the exhaust. Diesel vehicles over 26, GVWR are tested using a procedure called snap acceleration.

In metro Phoenix, heavy duty diesel vehicles are tested using a procedure called "snap acceleration". But to perform this vital function, it has to be operating properly. Like other vehicle systems — such as the battery and the brakes — the emission system sustains wear-and-tear with every mile you drive.

So, beyond its role in the emissions test, this visual once-over can help keep you running cleanly and efficiently by catching a small problem before it becomes a major one.

Those are the only two outcomes of an emissions test. If you pass, great! But what if your vehicle fails? But when you visit Jiffy Lube for your emissions test, you can rely on a trained technician to explain where and what the problem is and how to correct it. In , the Federal Clean Air Act was amended in an effort to greatly reduce air pollution.

As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency devised a set of emissions standards to minimize the amount of hazardous air pollutants released by motor vehicles. As of today, more than 30 states require some level of emissions testing by law.

To what degree your vehicle needs tested varies by state, and in some areas, by county. In particular, a test can potentially review the levels of carbon dioxide CO2 , hydrocarbons HC , carbon monoxide CO , oxides of nitrogen NOx and other emissions coming from your car.

For model year and later vehicles, the OBD inspection is the most conventional test. A TSI test is generally reserved for older cars. It tracks exhaust emissions when the engine is idling at a high and a low speed. Immediately following your test, you should receive the results.

If you pass, your car can be legally registered and can hit the road. In the event your vehicle fails the test, you cannot drive your vehicle until you make the necessary repairs and pass another test. What is a Car Safety and Emissions Inspection? By Celeste Tholen. Published on April 29, Share Article. Stay Safe! Sign up for SafeWise's weekly newsletter.

Get updates on the latest safety news, product releases, and deals. Sign Up. If you bring all of those items, your inspection should go on without a hitch, and you can expect an inspection of these specific elements: Horn Windshield Wipers Mirrors Steering System Seat Belts Brake System Tires Wheel Assembly Lights Motor, Serial, or Vehicle Identification Number Window tinting Gas caps Again, there may be some variation depending on your state, but this is usually the standard for a car safety inspection.

What Does an Emissions Inspection Include? When you go to your car emission inspection, this is generally what happens behind the scenes: Gas Cap Pressure Test: This test ensures your gas cap screws on tightly and keeps fuel vapors from escaping.