Why do an Emissions Check?
By identifying vehicles which are over-emitting and in need of repairs, the EPA has been combating the amount of fumes which enter into the ozone from vehicles. The introduction of emission checks and the repair of vehicles which fail the test has reduced the emission of certain pollutants by more than 4,000 lbs. per summer day.
In addition to being good for the environment and the air you breathe, making sure your emissions are at acceptable levels is actually legally required in many states. Not to mention they will help you identify problems with how your vehicle is using fuel.
How do Emission Checks Work?
Depending on the year of your vehicle, different tests are performed to gauge the amount of emissions being released. All vehicles generally receive a visual inspection of your fuel cap and your catalytic converter to test if gasoline vapors are being properly contained and converted. From there on, the process differs by the year of your vehicle.
Vehicle models from 1996 and newer use a computerized monitor called On-Board Diagnostics to determine whether your emissions system is working correctly. If your vehicle model is pre-1996, a treadmill like device called a dynamo-meter is used to simulate driving conditions and emissions from the tailpipe are captured and measured.
What Type of Emissions Are They Looking At?
There several different type of pollutants which are damaging to the ozone which emission checks are looking at. Depending on the type of emission, mechanics will be able to tell you what repairs need to be done on your vehicle. Here is a general breakdown:
- Hydrocarbon (HC) Emission: Excessive HCs is an indication that your fuel is not being fully burned. As this problem could be anywhere in the fuel combustion process, your mechanic will likely have to perform further investigation.
- Nitrogen Emission: High levels of Nitrogen generally signifies a problem with your catalytic converter or too high temperatures in the combustion chamber caused by deposits.
- Carbon Monoxide Emission: Carbon Monoxide generally means that the fuel is not received enough air during combustion. This could be a result of a misadjusted carburetor or worn out rings or valves.
Making sure that your vehicle’s emission system is working properly is one of your responsibilities as a motorist. But luckily emission checks are also good for wallet, because a properly working emissions system means that your fuel is being used efficiently and burning at the optimal rate. Don’t wait to make sure your car is running at its finest!
How to use this information
Emission checks are a quick and easy process with your local Denver car repair shop, Accurate Auto Body. If you want to make sure that your vehicle isn’t over polluting and burning fuel it shouldn’t be, be sure to give Accurate Auto Body a call at 303-344-2122 or contact us through our website for more information and we will be happy help!
Have emission checks helped you save money on fuel?
