We all want clean air and know that gasoline-powered vehicles contribute to poor air quality, especially in areas of high population, and an emission test is critical to keep our vehicles running cleanly.
Not only does a clean-running vehicle reduce air pollution, but it rewards you with better fuel mileage and longer engine life.
Emissions requirements vary greatly from state to state. Some areas require an emissions test in order to renew your registration, and most states require an emissions check when transferring title. If you’re purchasing a new vehicle, the dealer should handle all the emissions certification paperwork.
In other states the emissions recheck could happen as often as every other year of ownership. Still, other states have NO emissions certification at all. Here is a list of the key things we noted in our research concerning emissions certifications across the United States.
The best rule here is to check online with your state’s official emissions requirement page. Here’s a quick overview of the basics:
Emissions systems are like any other system in your vehicle. If your emissions controls are not in top condition, the vehicle can run poorly, and the controls won’t operate to maximum efficiency.
Even a pinhole leak in a hose can result in a vehicle that idles poorly or shuts off at a stoplight. If your vehicle runs different from what it did when you first purchased it, get a checkup.
Keep your vehicle well-tuned with regular oil changes and replace the air filter often. Emissions-related dirty filters can choke off the air from entering the engine and affect components. A simple filter change makes a big difference in the overall engine operation.
Today’s vehicles are extremely complex. As a result, cars run cleaner and emit far fewer pollutants. Emissions-related parts must work together with your engine. If your engine is worn to the point of allowing toxic emissions to reach the atmosphere, your vehicle will fail the emissions test. In many states, there’s no limit to the costs associated with bringing a vehicle back into compliance, and if you removed parts of the emissions system or made it inoperable, there are fines.
The most well-known emissions component is the catalytic converter. The “cat,” in most cases, is located in the exhaust tubing that runs under your vehicle. Using a chemical heat reaction, this component converts toxic elements contained in the exhaust into less damaging elements.
As a general rule, the replacement of catalytic converters is not necessary for the first 80,000 miles of use and generally a lot longer. If you feel your performance is under par, and you have more than 100,000 miles on the odometer, your catalytic converter could be the culprit if everything else checks out.
RELATED STORIES: What Happens When I Get a Check Engine Light Warning?
In addition to the catalytic converters, there are countless other emissions-related components underhood, including pumps, valves, hoses, and sensors that keep things running. Most states require some form of emissions testing on a regular basis. State-approved emissions stations simply check to make sure you’re up to spec for your vehicle. Most well-maintained vehicles will be within emissions compliance.
The best way to find an emissions test facility is through word of mouth. Your local service technician or mechanic probably has someone you can go to for this service if they cannot perform it.
Certified emissions test facilities post a placard noting they have the right test equipment and a qualified technician who can perform the test. If you don’t see a state-issued placard, ask to see the certification. If they can’t, find a facility that can do the job.
