THE EMISSIONS TEST

First let's learn about Smog. Smog is formed in our atmosphere when Nitrogen Dioxide and Hydrocarbons react together in sunlight. The internal combustion engine produces, among other gases, Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2). The later (CO2) is not a problem, however when combined with Nitrogen, it becomes a component of "smog".

In an effort to reduce the formation of smog, we need to insure our engines' are emitting the least amount of Hydrocarbons, Carbon Monoxides, and Nitrous Oxides into the atmosphere.

We must point out that the emissions test portion of the smog check process is where vehicles fail most. A properly maintained engine should not have any trouble passing the emissions test. However, vehicles which are not, very often produce harmful emissions past the state's allowed limits, and subsequently fail this test. Simple timely engine maintenance will eliminate emissions failure causing problems.

NOTE: Passing the emissions test insures only completion of one out of the three sections of the smog inspection process. Remember there is the Visual Test and Functional Test sections of the smog inspection also. These two test will be administered after the Emissions Test.

THE EMISSIONS TEST: The first test which the emissions test center will administer as part of the entire smog inspection process is the emissions test. In order to pass the emissions test portion of the smog inspection your car's engine must be burning fuel efficiently, insuring Hydrocarbons (HC) in it's combustion chambers are burning away thoroughly. Hydrocarbon, put simply, is gasoline. Consequently, this is the entire reason for the California emissions test program; to lower the amount of harmful pollutants emitted by a car's engine.

The emissions test will measure your vehicle's HC, CO and NOx production, and insure they are within the limits set by the State of California. Your vehicle's CO2 and O2 emissions are measured as well, however these results do not effect passing or failing the emission test.

Optimum fuel burning is achieved when the engine can maintain a 14.7:1 air/fuel ratio during the combustion process with a constant variation +/- 5% to assist the catalytic converter operation.