Five Emissions Test Preparation Tips from Georgia's Clean Air Force

ATLANTA (October 9, 2014) – Each year in Atlanta’s 13-county metro region, more than 2.5 million cars are tested for emissions. Georgia’s Clean Air Force (GCAF), a partnership with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), offers five key tips for motorists to help them ace their next emissions test.

Proper maintenance and vehicle upkeep is the best preventative measure that motorists can take prior to emissions testing, according to Pamela T. Earl, Air Protection Branch program manager, Environmental Protection Division (EPD). “The most common reasons for emissions test failures can be checked and repaired during routine tune-ups. So, if you take proper care of your vehicle, you’re off to a good start in passing the emissions test. However, it is helpful to keep these five tips in mind when preparing your car to be tested,” noted Earl.

• Tighten the Gas Cap. Make sure to fully tighten the gas cap after every fill up. On 1996 and newer model year vehicles, the “Check Engine” light may illuminate as a result of a loose fuel cap. If the “Check Engine” light appears, try tightening the fuel cap until it clicks, then drive the vehicle until the light resets.
• The Two Week Rule of Thumb. If you replace the car battery or clear the “Check Engine” light, be sure to drive the vehicle for two weeks (city and highway). This will help ensure that your car is functioning properly and is ready for the emissions test.
• Follow the Vehicle Maintenance Schedule. Lack of vehicle maintenance is a fairly common reason for emissions test failure. This is why it is important to follow the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule. Well-maintained vehicles usually pass the first time unless there’s an unrepaired component failure or manufacturer’s defect.
• Communication is Key. If your car’s computer is not properly communicating with the emissions station’s testing equipment, the fix could be as simple as replacing a malfunctioning cigarette lighter fuse.
• Don’t Ignore the “Check Engine” Light. When the “Check Engine” light appears, many drivers put off having it inspected by a local mechanic. This is a big mistake, as continued driving could further damage the vehicle.

Georgia’s Clean Air Force recommends testing your vehicle four to six weeks prior to the registration renewal date (the vehicle owner’s birthday) to allow ample time for any needed repairs and retests.

For additional information or to download an infographic with emissions test preparation tips, visit http://bit.ly/emmissionstips.

The website also features a RepairWatch Public Report, which lists repair shops with a proven track record of emissions-related repairs. Motorists can view the report to find quality repair shops in their local area.

About Georgia’s Clean Air Force

Georgia’s Clean Air Force, part of the Environmental Protection Division (EPD), is responsible for the management of the Enhanced Vehicle Emission Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) Program throughout Atlanta’s 13 metro counties. Since 1996, the Georgia EPD has worked to reduce harmful vehicle emissions. Georgia’s Inspection and Maintenance Program has prevented tons of ozone-forming pollutants from entering the air we breathe, by identifying and repairing nearly two million heavy-polluting vehicles. For more information visit http://www.cleanairforce.com.

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