A Quality Emission Check and PA Auto Inspection Havertown, PA Turns To

Why You Need Emission Checks

As we all know, exhaust pumps pollutants into the air, and Pennsylvania is seeking to improve its air quality with its emissions inspection program, which began in 1997. Emission testing varies by region, and Havertown, PA sits within the Philadelphia region, which includes Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties. The Philadephia region requires most vehicles manufactured after 1975 to be subject to annual emission checks. If you own a vehicle outside of the Philadelphia region, it may be subject to different requirements than vehicles within the region.

The Types of Emission Inspections

• On-board diagnostics check — Our technicians will check your vehicle's on-board computer that monitors emission levels. They'll let you know if they see any problems with your vehicle that are present in the diagnostic data.
• Tailpipe tests — We'll take a sample of your vehicle's exhaust and measure how much pollutants are present. After taking a sample, it will take less than a minute for our experts to determine whether or not your vehicle is emitting excess pollutants.
• Gas cap test — This test determines whether fumes are leaving your vehicle's gas tank and are evaporating into the atmosphere. Your gas cap will be placed into a device that ensures it properly holds pressure. Like the tailpipe test, this check won't take more than a minute.
• Anti-tampering check — First, we'll look for emission control devices including a catalytic converter, an exhaust gas recirculation valve, and an air pump. The technician makes sure these components are properly connected and that they meet standards if they are aftermarket replacement parts. Keep in mind that any change to a vehicle that gives it a non-certified configuration is considered tampering and can be considered a federal offense.