Why a Failed Emissions Test Could Be Your First Step Toward Passing

Once a year we are required to get an emissions test and register our vehicles in Utah County, but your check engine light is on.  Here at Dickerson Automotive we have been advised but the Utah County Health Department  to always start with an emissions test even if that vehicle is going to fail. Why is it that we would want to start with a test that is not going to pass? There are a couple reasons why we would want to start with a failed test.

 The manufacturer is responsible for light duty vehicles to pass emissions within the first 2 years and under 24,000 miles. There are also 3 major components covered for 8 years or 80,000 miles. So, if there is a chance it is covered by warranty we would need to send you to the dealer.

On occasion the repairs completed did not influence the check engine light or you have spent at least $450 dollars, and the check engine light remains on did not reduce the pollution levels below standard, you would be able to apply for a waiver a vehicle is only allowed a waiver once in its life and will be tracked by the vin number. 

Here is a list of requirements:

  •  All Emissions control devices must be present and operable
  • Any high-altitude repairs or adjustments have been preformed
  • You have spent at least $450 on emissions related repairs, after the first failed test
  • Labor preformed to correct the issue was preformed by a licensed repair business
  • No visible emissions smoke from the vehicle

If those requirements are made and you do qualify for waiver you will need first failed emissions test, dated repair orders for emissions control items, a second emission test showing the vehicle is still not passing, and a test and inspection at Technical center.

 

In the long run the first failed test is just a steppingstone to getting the waiver or getting the vehicle to pass the emissions test.

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Vehicle Repairs