Clearing the Air: State Emissions Testing Overview

Greenhouse gas emissions like carbon dioxide and methane emitted by vehicles are warming the planet. Many states have imposed curbs on the emissions vehicles can produce. 

State emissions testing ensures vehicles comply with environmental regulations. Passing this test isn't just necessary for emissions compliance purposes but also for the environment. 

Modern vehicles are equipped with emission control features. Therefore, some states may only require older vehicles to undergo emissions testing. 

At Broadway Auto Care, we can help ensure your vehicle meets state emissions requirements by inspecting for common issues that cause test failure. Our experts can perform repairs and guide you on keeping your vehicle's emissions in check without compromising performance!

What Is Emissions Testing?

Emissions testing involves checking and calculating the exhaust emissions from a vehicle to ensure they're below the maximum allowed limit. The emissions must meet the requirements set by the state per Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. 

The EPA has set limits for the amount of pollution vehicles can emit, such as smog and soot. These limits were first proposed as part of the Clean Air program within the Clean Air Act of 1990. Many states have since adopted emissions testing requirements to reduce pollutants and their environmental impact. 

State emissions testing is typically required annually or biennially. This test is different from vehicle inspections, which assess safety. 

Even if a state emissions test is not mandatory for your vehicle, you should still assess your vehicle's emissions, as higher than standard emissions can be a sign of a problem.

State Emissions Testing Process

Emissions tests aim to assess pollutants emitted by a vehicle and its ability to control them. The emissions testing procedure can vary based on the age of the vehicle. 

Besides visual smog check and inspection of exhaust components, here are the most common procedures for testing vehicle emissions:

• On-board diagnostic (OBD) inspection: For vehicles manufactured in 1996 and later, the OBD inspection assesses the emissions. Vehicles with OBD have an emissions diagnostic system that provides error codes for possible issues with the exhaust system. 
• Acceleration simulation mode (ASM) test: For older vehicles that don't have OBD systems, the ASM test assesses emissions. It uses a dynamometer and tailpipe sensors to check the tailpipe emissions. 
• Two-speed idle (TSI) test: Used for vehicles made from 1976 to 1980, the TSI checks exhaust emissions for when the vehicle is idling. 
  

Where To Get Emissions Testing Done

Generally, a state-designated emissions inspection station performs the test. You can find one near you on the official state department's website responsible for safety or emissions testing. 

Before heading for a test, you can take your vehicle to a professional auto repair and maintenance shop to get it checked. A technician will conduct the test at the emissions inspection station, using the process applicable to your vehicle's make. The test can take 15 to 30 minutes. 

Contact Broadway Auto Care to get your vehicle's emissions tested today!

Common Causes of Emissions Test Failure

As vehicles age, their ability to optimize gas usage and control emissions may deteriorate. In addition, specific issues in the vehicle's exhaust system can also lead to higher-than-normal emissions.

At Broadway Auto Care, we offer comprehensive automotive services, including exhaust service and general maintenance, to ensure the vehicle's emissions are well below the state's threshold. 

Here are some of the common reasons vehicles fail state emissions testing:

• Loose or leaking gas cap: A loose gas cap can emit fuel vapors, which results in more emissions released into the air from the vehicle. 
• Faulty fuel injector: A faulty fuel injector can cause too much gas to be consumed, which, in turn, causes even more carbon dioxide emissions. 
• Check Engine light: The Check Engine signal can get activated because of various issues, which may not necessarily be related to the exhaust system. However, it can lead to a failed emissions test. 
• Dirty air filter: An old and dirty air filter can also cause the vehicle to emit more greenhouse gas emissions. 
• Damaged exhaust system: If the exhaust system, particularly the catalytic converter, isn't doing its job, the vehicle emissions test result will be negative.

Contact Broadway Auto Care To Assess Your Vehicle's Emissions

At Broadway Auto Care, we can help ensure your vehicle's emissions are up to standards. After assessing your vehicle and using air quality monitoring, we can help gauge its environmental impact. If any underlying issues are causing vehicle pollution, we can diagnose and fix the problem. 

As the best vehicle maintenance and repair services provider in Sonoma, CA, we can meet all your automotive repair needs. We'll check your vehicle's emissions today and make it environmentally safer. 

Contact us at (707) 996-1611 or visit us at 616 Broadway, Sonoma, CA 95476!