Will My Car Fail Inspection for Check Engine Light On?
The check engine light (CEL) is a warning light that illuminates on your dashboard when the engine control module (ECM) detects a problem with your vehicle’s emissions system. When the CEL is on, it means that your car is not operating at peak efficiency and may be emitting excessive pollutants. In most states, a car will fail inspection if the CEL is on.
What Causes the Check Engine Light to Come On?
There are many different things that can cause the CEL to come on, including:
- A loose or damaged gas cap
- A faulty oxygen sensor
- A catalytic converter problem
- An exhaust leak
- A problem with the engine’s fuel injection system
- An ignition problem
- A transmission problem
Can I Drive with the Check Engine Light On?
In most cases, it is safe to drive with the CEL on. However, it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your vehicle or the environment.
How to Fix the Check Engine Light
The first step in fixing the CEL is to have the problem diagnosed by a qualified mechanic. Once the problem has been diagnosed, the mechanic can recommend the best course of action. In some cases, the problem may be something simple that you can fix yourself, such as tightening a loose gas cap. In other cases, the problem may be more serious and require professional repair.
How to Pass Inspection with the Check Engine Light On
In most states, you will not be able to pass inspection if the CEL is on. However, there are a few things you can do to try to pass inspection with the CEL on:
- Have the problem diagnosed by a qualified mechanic and repaired before the inspection.
- If the problem cannot be repaired before the inspection, you can try to get a waiver from the inspection station.
- In some states, you may be able to pass inspection if the CEL is on, but you will have to pay a penalty fee.
Conclusion
The check engine light is a warning light that should not be ignored. If the CEL is on, it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your vehicle or the environment. In most states, a car will fail inspection if the CEL is on. However, there are a few things you can do to try to pass inspection with the CEL on.
