Nowadays, most states require your vehicle to pass a vehicle emissions inspection, also known as a smog test, to reduce pollution and improve air quality. However, as the time approaches for a vehicle inspection, including emissions testing, car owners may wonder how to pass an emissions test.
Exactly how often you must complete a vehicle emissions inspection depends on your state or local government’s requirements. The first Clean Air Act was enacted in 1963 and has been amended many times since then, so it’s vital to check your local regulations.
There are two basic types of emissions tests: tailpipe and onboard diagnostics. Which of these vehicle emissions inspections your vehicle must undergo also depends on your local requirements and your vehicle’s model year.
In case you’re wondering how to pass an emissions test, LubeMaster has a team of automotive technicians with extensive experience completing vehicle emissions tests. When you need a vehicle inspection in Philadelphia, PA, we provide quick and honest service to get your car back on the road. Here are some tips on how to prepare your vehicle for its emission system test.
Tips for Passing an Emissions Test
An emissions test is a procedure that ensures vehicles meet standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for fuel emissions. If you’re wondering how to pass an emissions test, there are some steps you can take to prepare your vehicle for the inspection. Here are some common tips to get your car ready:
Ensure Your Check Engine Light Is Off
When there is an issue with your vehicle, the check engine light will notify you of the problem. For example, the check engine light can alert you of an issue with the oxygen sensor located in the exhaust pipe.
An oxygen sensor is a vital part of the emissions inspection program because it relays all necessary information on emissions to the ECU. Therefore, your oxygen sensor shouldn’t be on when you get ready to drive to your vehicle testing center.
Clean Your Catalytic Converter
Over time, your vehicle’s catalytic converter can become clogged, meaning you’ll need to manually clean it or drive it on the highway to clean it. When you drive your car at high speeds, your catalytic converter heats up, and most of the carbon deposits clear away.
When thinking about how to pass an emissions test, drive your car on the highway a few weeks before your appointment. Doing this can ensure that your catalytic converter is clean and reduce the chance your vehicle will fail emissions tests.
Complete an Engine Oil Change
A fresh oil change can boost your vehicle’s engine performance considerably. If you have an appointment for your vehicle emissions inspection, schedule an oil change service before the test.
It’s crucial to schedule an oil change if you haven’t done so for a while or have driven your car more frequently than usual since your most recent oil change. When thinking about how to pass an emissions test, fresh oil in your vehicle can help you.
Properly Inflate Your Tires
Although engine dynamometers, also known as engine dynamos, are outdated and most service garages don’t use them anymore, there’s still a possibility that your inspection center may use one. This device tests your engine’s internal combustion to provide data on pollutants from the vehicle’s exhaust system.
Low tire pressure can affect your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and indirectly cause the engine to work harder than usual. Properly inflating your tires can reduce the potential for harmful gas release during an emissions test.
Consider Using a Fuel Additive
A fuel additive can be a cost-effective and straightforward approach to improve internal combustion and reduce harmful emissions. Fuel additives work most effectively when they’re present in the gas tank before combustion.
If you use a fuel additive for your vehicle, it’s best to remove your gas cap and add it before you fill up your tank with gas. Your car can benefit from a fuel additive within 100-300 miles after you add it.
Schedule Your Vehicle Emissions Test With LubeMaster Today!
Is your vehicle due for an emissions inspection? Now that you have some tips for passing an emissions test, you have time to prepare your car for the big day.
If your vehicle’s annual inspection and emissions test date is approaching, contact LubeMaster to schedule your appointment today! We provide honest and reliable services for your car, including oil changes and brake repairs in Philadelphia, PA.
