Preparing For Emissions Testing

Many state require a smog test to make sure your vehicle won’t emit emissions at a rate that is dangerous to the environment. These tests typically occur every other year, but some states require them every year. If you are concerned that your vehicle will fail your next emissions check, make sure you are well-prepared by following a simple guide. If you are still unsure about emissions in Federal Way, contact a trusted auto repair service to make sure your car is ready for the test. Use the following tips to help your vehicle pass the inspection every single time it comes around.

Proper Maintenance

Keeping up with proper maintenance in your car is the best way to guarantee it passes its emissions test every time. Be sure to keep up with oil changes, air filter changes, and performance tune-ups that need to be done regularly to ensure peak performance in your car.

Always Have Repairs Done Properly

If your check engine light comes on while you are driving, have your car examined, diagnosed, and repaired by a certified auto mechanic in your area. The check engine light is there to notify you of any potential problems brewing in your engine, so having a mechanic check it out is the best course of action to ensure it gets properly repaired. Know that your vehicle will never pass a smog test if the check engine light is on for any reason.

Driving Conditions

Pay attention while you drive to ensure you have a smooth ride. You also want to make sure that your vehicle idles smoothly after you start it up. Keep on the lookout for rough riding or bouncing around, and listen for any unusual noises coming from the engine. If your car ever smokes or overheats, you will probably not pass the inspection, so get any issues taken care of as soon as you can.

Emission Repairs

If you do end up failing the emissions test, make sure you take your car to a licensed emissions technician for any needed repairs. Emissions repair is a very detailed business and typically requires years of training to perform at a high level. For this reason, it may not be wise to trust your normal mechanic with these issues. Many states require a four-year degree in automotive technology to become a licensed emissions repair technician, so you want someone who knows what he is doing when it comes to these sorts of repairs.