Can a Car Pass Emissions with the Check Engine Light On?

Introduction

The check engine light is a warning indicator on your car’s dashboard that can illuminate for a variety of reasons. In most cases, the check engine light will turn on when there is a problem with the car’s engine or emissions system. However, there are some cases where the check engine light may come on even if there is no actual problem with the car.

If your check engine light is on, you may be wondering if you can still pass emissions testing. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the state you live in and the reason why the check engine light is on.

Passing Emissions Testing with the Check Engine Light On

In most states, it is illegal to drive a car with the check engine light on. However, there are some states that have a grace period that allows drivers to drive with the check engine light on for a certain amount of time. For example, in California, drivers are allowed to drive with the check engine light on for up to 30 days.

If you live in a state that has a grace period, you may be able to pass emissions testing even if the check engine light is on. However, you should be aware that the emissions test may not be accurate if the check engine light is on.

The reason why the emissions test may not be accurate is because the check engine light can indicate a problem with the car’s emissions system. If the emissions system is not working properly, the car may not be able to pass the emissions test.

What to Do if the Check Engine Light Is On

If the check engine light is on, the best thing to do is to have the car diagnosed by a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the necessary repairs.

Once the repairs have been made, you should take the car back to the emissions testing station for a retest. If the car passes the retest, you will be issued a new emissions certificate.

Conclusion

In most cases, it is not possible to pass emissions testing with the check engine light on. However, there are some states that have a grace period that allows drivers to drive with the check engine light on for a certain amount of time. If you live in one of these states, you may be able to pass emissions testing even if the check engine light is on. However, the emissions test may not be accurate if the check engine light is on.

If the check engine light is on, the best thing to do is to have the car diagnosed by a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the necessary repairs.