For many drivers, the phrase “emissions testing” sparks confusion or even anxiety. What exactly is emission testing? What happens if your car doesn’t pass?
Read on to learn more about the emissions inspection process, understand why it matters, and consider how Strickland Brothers 10-Minute Oil Change can help keep your vehicle in top shape.
What Is a Car Emissions Test, Anyway?
Emissions testing is part of your regular car inspection and is designed to ensure your vehicle does not release excessive harmful pollutants into the air. It checks your vehicle’s exhaust system and emissions control components, typically using an onboard diagnostics (OBD).
Note: Not every state requires emissions inspections, and the rules can vary by county or even zip code. If you’re unsure whether your car needs testing, your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website is a great place to start—or find your nearest Strickland location on our website to see if they offer emissions testing.
Emissions tests help protect the air we breathe by catching high-polluting vehicles before they become a bigger environmental (and mechanical) problem.
If your vehicle fails inspection, you may face fines or registration delays. Fortunately, failure doesn’t mean you’re stuck—you’re usually given time to remedy the issue and retest.
Common Reasons For Failed Emissions Tests
Many emissions inspection failures can be traced back to a few key issues:
- Old motor oil
Old, dirty motor oil affects the way your engine runs and can cause it to release more hydrocarbons. - The check engine light is on
This is one of the most common—and easily avoidable—reasons for failure. If the light is on, the car will likely fail no matter what. Always take your vehicle to a service pro when the check engine light comes on. - Faulty oxygen sensors
Your car’s oxygen sensors work to regulate your engine’s fuel efficiency and emissions. A bad or faulty sensor throws off your fuel mixture and causes emissions problems. - Worn spark plugs or ignition components
Bad spark plugs may give your engine trouble starting or cause misfires, which can lead to excess hydrocarbons in your exhaust. - Dirty air filters or malfunctioning fuel injectors
Fuel injectors ensure your engine receives the right mixture of fuel and air. If your engine isn’t getting the proper air-fuel balance, it won’t run cleanly. - Loose or damaged gas cap
It may come as a surprise, but a faulty gas cap can trigger emissions-related error codes because it lets fuel vapors escape the gas tank.
How to Prepare For Your Emissions Test—and How Strickland Brothers Can Help
The best way to avoid stress on emissions inspection day is to keep up with regular automotive maintenance throughout the life of your vehicle. Consistent car maintenance such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and fuel system cleanings can directly affect your emissions output and your car’s overall performance.
That’s where Strickland Brothers 10-Minute Oil Change comes in.
Our free courtesy check includes elements of a car inspection to ensure overall vehicle safety and functionality. These checks include:
- Front and rear exterior lights
- Engine air filter
- Windshield washer fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Tire pressure
- Wiper blades
- Cabin air filter
Emissions testing doesn’t have to be complicated. Understanding what the inspection involves, paired with premium care from your local Strickland Brothers 10-Minute Oil Change, will leave you more than ready to pass your emissions inspection. And because we know life is busy, no appointment is ever necessary. Just drive up when it’s convenient, and we’ll take care of the rest. Find Emissions Testing and Car Inspection Services near you. Click here for a coupon to save on your next visit!
