To promote a cleaner environment, the Environmental Protection Agency has established certain emissions standards focused on minimizing the hazardous pollutants automobiles release into the air. As such, more than 30 states currently require some level of emissions testing prior to renewing the vehicle registration. This means your car may need periodic testing from an automotive repair shop to ensure it meets EPA standards. The following guide explains how this works and why it’s necessary.

What Does an Emissions Test Involve? 

Also referred to as a smog check, emissions testing is done to measure the level of pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides, that are present in a vehicle’s exhaust. Testing procedures can differ depending on each state’s process and the age of the car. For model years 1996 and later, automotive repair shops generally use an on-board diagnostic inspection, which provides data from various systems within the vehicle. 

Based on how these systems perform, a car will either pass or fail the emissions test. If it fails, the vehicle can’t be driven until the repairs are made. This can happen for several reasons, including a loose gas cap, leak in the exhaust system, faulty air injection system, defective fuel injector, or malfunctioning oxygen sensor. 

Why Is This Important?

Emissions testing prevents vehicles that are emitting excessive pollutants to continue being operated on the roadways. This helps remove toxins from the air, improving the overall air quality and reducing the effects of climate change. 

An emissions test will also ensure your car is running as efficiently as possible. A test can make you aware of problems that aren’t otherwise visible so you can get them taken care of before they worsen and become unsafe or lead to a more costly issue.

If it’s time for your vehicle to undergo an emissions test, bring it in to Jerry Ernst Auto Body. Serving drivers throughout the Cincinnati, OH, area since 1972, this locally owned and operated automotive repair shop offers a wide variety of services that will keep your car operating at peak performance. Call (513) 871-7200 to schedule an appointment or visit them online for more information about the high-quality work they provide.