Almost every vehicle has to undergo emissions testing to be registered legally. You probably know how stressful failing an emissions test can be if you have found yourself in such a situation before.
Luckily, a few common issues linked to a failure in the emissions test can be repaired inexpensively. When your vehicle passes the emissions test, you will be awarded a Vehicle Inspection Certificate and you can comfortably proceed with the registration process.
Performing the procedures also allows your engine to run smoothly.
Reasons why your vehicle might fail the emissions test
- Failing to perform an oil change as scheduled
There are few hydrocarbons in clean oil, meaning that the engine is cleaner and it emits less toxic gases. For this reason it’s not uncommon to fail if you’ve not had a recent oil change.
Fixing this problem is easy. You only need to get the oil changed and remember to change it at your manufacturer’s recommended schedule in the future. If you don’t know how often the oil change should be performed, check the vehicle’s manual for a detailed explanation. Alternatively, contact us to set up an appropriate service schedule that fits the needs of your specific car model.
- Faulty oxygen sensors / injectors
Your car will fail the emissions test if the mixture of fuel and air is too rich. A rich mixture contributes to a high amount of gasoline undergoing combustion and producing more carbon monoxide because of an incomplete burning process.
This results from defective injectors or faulty oxygen sensors. You might need to get these components checked and fixed if necessary.
- Worn out spark plugs
Faulty spark plugs don’t allow complete combustion to take place. This is a critical contributor to increased emissions. Bring your vehicle to our shop to have the plugs checked and replaced if need be.
- Dirty air filter
A congested or dirty air filter is a sure way of allowing an unregulated amount of hydrocarbons into the intake system. When this happens, more emissions are likely to be witnessed. Most vehicle manufacturers advise that the filter be replaced after 12,000 miles or after one year of use.
Do you remember the last time it was changed? If you don’t, get it changed before taking your vehicle for the emissions test.
Fix your emissions problems at General Muffler!
If your car failed the smog or emissions test, you can benefit by choosing your repairs at a testing center with certified emissions testers. They know how to complete repairs to the exacting standards of state emissions – helping to ensure you pass your re-test.
General Muffler and Auto Repair are a state certified emissions testing center, located in Ansonia CT,
To learn more about our services or to book a professional vehicle checkup, visit our physical address on 670 Main St. Ansonia, CT 06401. You could also schedule a repair via our website or call us on (203) 735-6406.