What is an Emissions Test?

 
Emissions tests are also referred to as smog checks. Your vehicle likely has an onboard diagnostics computer that monitors your car’s emissions control system, engine performance, and other systems. When you go in for an emissions test in Delta, a technician will connect your car to a testing system through your car’s onboard diagnostics port (OBD2 port) to measure the levels of pollutants like benzene, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, oxygen, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide that your car emits as exhaust. Emissions testing determines whether your car exceeds the legal levels of these pollutants. Below, the technicians at our service center near Ridgway answer the following emissions-related questions:

• Do I need an emissions test?
• How long does an emissions test take?
• How much is an emissions test?

Do I Need an Emissions Test?

There’s a good chance you do. Currently, at least 29 states require emissions testing to some degree for registered vehicles. If you’re unsure of CO’s emissions testing requirements, you can get in touch with the Environmental Protection Agency for more information. Here are the states that currently do not require some form of emissions testing:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arkansas
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Montana
• Nebraska
• North Dakota
• Oklahoma
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wyoming

How Long Does an Emissions Test Take?

Emissions tests usually take 15 to 30 minutes. They are mandated by the Federal Clean Air Act (CAA), which was largely in place by 1970, though a previous act of the same name was enacted in 1963. While the CAA sets federal standards for air quality, pollution control is a highly localized affair, and implementing it depends on a host of local considerations such as specific geographies, transportation, housing patterns, local industries, and more. This is why the CAA grants states the ability to take the lead in implementing CAA regulations, and this is why emissions testing may be done differently or take more/less time in different states.
That being said, States cannot have weaker emissions standards than those set forth by the EPA, and the EPA approves each State Implementation Plan (SIP). If a state fails to comply with or is unable to meet federal minimum standards, the EPA can step in and enforce the CAA in that state.
 

How Much is an Emissions Test?

The price of emissions testing varies from state to state but typically costs between $15 and $30. Usually, the cost is on the lower side if emissions testing is required yearly. That said, these estimates may rise due to global trade fluctuations impacting the automotive industry.

Schedule an Emissions Test at Turner Automotive, Inc.

If your vehicle is due for emissions testing, or you’re concerned about your car’s emissions, contact our service centerat Turner Automotive, Inc. near Telluride, or schedule a service visit online. We can answer any questions you may have about emissions testing requirements in Montrose. While you’re here, browse our service specials for offers on Chevrolet, GMC OEM parts and services your vehicle needs.