State Vehicle Inspection & Emissions Testing
With normal car inspections and periodic emissions checks, vehicle drivers can be made aware of any mechanical problems with their cars. In case your car failed to pass the inspection or the vehicle-emissions test, you will know it is ready for some immediate attention and potentially some repair or service. Vehicle owners should schedule the repair as soon as possible because it might endanger the dependability of the vehicle and even cause hefty fines or even a disqualified registration. Therefore, it is highly advised to have your car examined by a qualified professional at least every six months to avoid all these troubles. Some frequently asked questions on vehicle inspection are described here.
What is On-Board Diagnostics or OBD?
The OBD or On-Board Diagnostics, or OBD II is a standard computer system implemented in all vehicles created in and after 1996. Simply put, all the vehicles made in 1996 and after will have an OBD system in them, which supplies data records on self-diagnosis of the car frequently utilized by automobile professionals before carrying out any type of automobile repairs.
What Are The Most Common Causes Of a Failed Emissions Test?
A car emissions test can fail for lots of factors due to malfunctioning vehicle elements such as an injector, oxygen sensor, ignition system and even an EVAP system. The most common cause is damaged injectors. Either the injectors or a malfunctioning oxygen sensing unit can cause a "rich air-fuel mix" causing a disappointing emissions test result.
If your vehicle has damaged spark plugs, there is a higher chance that it might be the reason for a rise in exhaust discharges. This, subsequently, can result in a failed emissions examination.
Any kind of issue or shortages in the EVAP system or evaporative exhaust control system can cause a problem in the handling of the gas vapor produced from the car resulting in atmospheric pollution.
If your vehicle hasn't undertaken routine maintenance and the "check engine" light is illuminated on the dashboard, your automobile might fail the vehicle-emissions test.
What Do They Check for in a Vehicle Inspection?
A licensed inspector performs an automobile examination at state-approved examination stations only. This is what they will look for:
- Headlights: headlamps evaluation to ensure correct operation, no cracked lenses or lamps, lights are the proper color, are the same, and turn signals are operable.
- Tail lights: Turn signals, marker lights, hazard lights, license plate lights, brake lights, reverse lights are operable, and no damaged taillights
- Wheels and Tires: to inspect tire problems for any indicators of wear and tear and if there is a need for replacement
- Mirrors: Check to make sure no mirrors are broken, broken or missing
- Seat belts: to examine safety belt condition and make sure they are safely operating or need a replacement
- Brakes: a thorough brake evaluation to ensure proper brake reaction and if there are any type of brake fluid leaks
- Horn: make sure the horn is working correctly
- Examination of suspension and shock absorbers
How Long Does It Take To Get A Safety Inspection?
Based on the state, city, and county where the car tests are performed, the vehicle safety inspection period might differ. Nonetheless, for a majority of cars, this process normally takes an hour to an hour and a half.
Texas Car Inspection FAQ | Cadillac Dealership Houston