Will My Car Pass Emissions with Check Engine Light On?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the year of your car, the state you live in, and the reason for the check engine light being on.
Year of Car
In general, cars manufactured after 1996 are equipped with an onboard diagnostic (OBD) system that monitors the vehicle’s emissions control systems. If the OBD system detects a problem with any of these systems, it will turn on the check engine light.
For cars manufactured before 1996, the check engine light is not always related to emissions. In these vehicles, the check engine light may be triggered by a variety of problems, including:
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Loose gas cap
- Vacuum leak
- Spark plug misfire
State Regulations
The emissions testing requirements vary from state to state. In some states, cars with a check engine light will automatically fail the emissions test. In other states, the emissions test may be waived if the check engine light is not related to emissions.
To find out the emissions testing requirements in your state, you can visit the website of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Reason for Check Engine Light
The reason for the check engine light being on can also affect whether or not your car will pass the emissions test. If the check engine light is on due to a problem with the emissions control system, your car is likely to fail the emissions test.
However, if the check engine light is on due to a non-emissions related problem, your car may still pass the emissions test. For example, if the check engine light is on due to a loose gas cap, your car will likely pass the emissions test.
What to Do if Your Check Engine Light Is On
If your check engine light is on, the best thing to do is to have it diagnosed by a mechanic. The mechanic can determine the cause of the problem and recommend the necessary repairs.
Once the repairs are complete, you should have your car re-tested for emissions. If the repairs were successful, your car should pass the emissions test.
Conclusion
Whether or not your car will pass the emissions test with the check engine light on depends on a few factors. To find out the emissions testing requirements in your state and to determine the reason for the check engine light being on, you should visit the website of the DMV and have your car diagnosed by a mechanic.
