How can a vehicle fail an emissions test

If your oxygen sensor malfunctions it can not properly monitor the exhaust and may cause additional problems such as overheating, loss of engine power or poor acceleration.

However, what is important to the licensing department is that it can also increase the toxicity of your emissions. When monitoring the emissions of your vehicle it may be found that there are high levels of carbon monoxide, which occurs if your vehicle is burning excessive amounts of gasoline.

This can happen because of a faulty MAF sensor or oxygen sensor or because of leaking fuel injectors. Your vehicle monitors fuel use to ensure that there is a proper air-fuel mixture for a smooth running engine. If the computerized engine control or fuel injection unit fails or malfunctions the monitoring will be out of specification. The Cheapest Used Cars to Maintain. How to Winterize Your Car. Tips on Purchasing Tires Online. A Look at Car Wraps. Select a Model All Models Model.

Stay tuned to the symptoms, and get them repaired ahead of time. When your car is running a rich air-fuel mixture, it means that too much fuel is being fed into the engine and burning with each stroke.

This actually produces a little extra power than a lean mixture which is the opposite problem but it also causes diminished fuel efficiency and dirtier exhaust. What it means is that some fuel is evaporating out, somewhere in the system. Luckily, a common cause of this issue is a faulty or leaky gas cap. Fresh oil, on the other hand, means fewer hydrocarbons i.

Luckily, this is a pretty simple fix—get an oil change! Over time, extreme weather and general wear and tear can leave a car in need of exhaust repairs. If you've noticed increased engine noise, decreased fuel efficiency, or vibrations in the driver's seat, gas pedal, or steering wheel, you could be experiencing symptoms of a damaged exhaust system.

Once the issue is diagnosed and fixed, your car will not only pass the emissions test, but you'll be enjoying a smoother, quieter ride and potentially better gas mileage. That sounds like a win for you, your passengers, and the environment. This one may seem like a no-brainer, but hear us out.

Have you ever had a friend who continued to drive their car without issue, despite the fact that their dashboard was lit up like a Christmas tree?

Don't be that friend. If your check engine light is on, your car will immediately fail emissions. No ifs, ands, or buts about it.