Here is what the smog technician is trying to explain... after your battery disconnected the ECM (engine control module) cleared the "emission monitors" required to pass the smog check. Emission Monitors are internal self tests which your Toyota Camry's ECM performs while you are driving, which ensures the emissions systems are functioning properly. Without the emission monitors "complete" your Toyota can not pass the smog check.
Typically driving for 400 miles, and over the course of a week (at least a few days) will Complete the emissions monitors.
The following is a Toyota Camry Drive Cycle which if followed closely should set all the required Emission Monitors and let your Toyota Camry pass the smog test.
Begin by: (Make sure you have between 1/4 and 3/4 fuel in the gas tank. The EVAP test will not run while your Toyota Camry has a full tank of gas or the gas tank is near empty).
- Start the engine. Idle the engine in drive for two and a half minutes with the A/C and rear defroster on.
- Turn the A/C and rear defrost off, and accelerate to 55 mph at half throttle.
- Hold at a steady speed of 55 mph for three minutes.
- Decelerate (coast down) to 20 mph without braking.
- Accelerate back to 55 to 60 mph at ¾ throttle.
- Hold at a steady speed of 55 to 60 mph for five minutes.
- Decelerate (coast down) to a stop without braking.
If all other emissions systems are functioning properly, completing the drive cycle above should set the emission monitors required to pass the smog check. It will not hurt to perform the drive cycle 2 or 3 times before the smog inspection. Take caution when performing drive cycles on public roadways.
