Can My Car Pass Inspection with the Check Engine Light On?
The Answer: It Depends
Whether or not your car can pass inspection with the check engine light on depends on the state in which you live and the reason for the light being on.
States that Allow Inspections with Check Engine Light On
The following states allow vehicles to pass inspection even if the check engine light is on:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
States that Require Check Engine Light to Be Off for Inspection
The following states require the check engine light to be off in order for a vehicle to pass inspection:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- New York
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Washington
Reasons for Check Engine Light Being On
There are many reasons why the check engine light may be on. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Loose gas cap
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Bad spark plugs
- Catalytic converter problems
- Transmission problems
- Engine problems
If the check engine light is on, it is important to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with the check engine light on can damage your vehicle and may also make it fail inspection.
Conclusion
Whether or not your car can pass inspection with the check engine light on depends on the state in which you live and the reason for the light being on. If you live in a state that allows inspections with the check engine light on, you may still be able to pass inspection if the reason for the light being on is minor. However, if you live in a state that requires the check engine light to be off for inspection, you will need to have the problem diagnosed and repaired before your car can pass inspection.
