As a California resident, you are undoubtedly familiar with smog checks. After all, they are required biennially (every other year) on all vehicles that are more than eight model-years old. However, do you know how smog checks work? Here’s what to expect the next time you bring your car in for emissions testing.
VISUAL & FUNCTIONAL INSPECTIONS
First, a technician goes over the vehicle’s check engine light, ignition timing, exhaust gas recirculation system, fuel evaporative system, and gas cap. This portion of a smog check is intended to uncover any issues with the vehicle’s emission control components. If a fault in the system is causing the dashboard warning light to illuminate, you must have the malfunction repaired before passing a smog check. A visual and functional inspection can also reveal if the emission system has been modified, disconnected, or otherwise tampered with. Altered vehicles can be configured to pass the tailpipe inspection but later changed to produce more emissions than the law permits.OBD II INSPECTION
On-board diagnostic (OBD) tests have been used for years. OBD II, the second generation of on-board self-diagnostic equipment, is required on all 1996 or 1997-and-newer passenger vehicles operated in California. To check if your car is equipped with this feature, check for the words “OBD II” on the emission control information label on the underside of the hood. In all areas of California, technicians are required to perform an OBD II inspection during a smog check. The purpose is to measure the data provided by your vehicle’s computerized diagnostics system, which reveals the functionality of virtually every component that could affect emission performance. The system stores information that can tell a smog check technician how cleanly the vehicle has been operating and whether any issues need to be addressed.TAILPIPE EMISSIONS INSPECTION
For cars and trucks that aren’t equipped with OBD II, an old-school tailpipe test is used to measure levels of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxide, and emissions from evaporation. Here are the two types of tests that may be used in place of an OBD II inspection:- TSI test: The two-speed idle test measures exhaust through the tailpipe to calculate emissions when the car is idling. It’s most often used on older vehicles.
- ASM test: The acceleration simulation mode test is typically reserved for very old vehicles. It incorporates a drive-on dynamometer that measures tailpipe emissions while the vehicle is “driving.”
