What Are the Causes of Excessive Vehicle Emissions?
3 Answers
Excessive vehicle emissions are caused by: 1. Poor fuel quality; 2. Damaged catalytic converter; 3. Malfunction of certain sensors near the engine, such as the oxygen sensor, camshaft position sensor, intake air flow sensor, intake air temperature sensor, and coolant temperature sensor. Excessive emissions mean that the vehicle's exhaust emissions exceed the specified standards. Engine sensors provide the Engine Control Unit (ECU) with information about the engine's operating conditions, allowing the ECU to precisely calculate and control the engine's operation to enhance engine performance, reduce fuel consumption, minimize exhaust emissions, and detect faults.
As an ordinary office worker who has been driving for many years, I've found that the most common cause of excessive emissions is neglecting regular maintenance, such as not changing the engine oil on time or allowing the air filter to accumulate dust, which reduces the engine's combustion efficiency. Also, saving a little money by using low-quality fuel actually makes the exhaust dirtier. When stuck in traffic, I often can't resist idling while waiting or running the air conditioning, which reportedly causes emissions to skyrocket. Plus, as the car ages, parts like spark plugs wearing out or sensors failing without timely repairs can easily push emissions over the limit. These habits may seem convenient in the short term, but over time they cause significant environmental harm and create hidden risks for oneself. I recommend developing a habit of regular inspections to avoid regretting it only after problems arise.
I'm a huge car enthusiast who loves modifying vehicles, but it's easy to mess up the emission system if not careful. For example, removing the catalytic converter for performance gains can directly cause emissions to exceed standards. Or installing the wrong spark plug model leads to ignition issues and foul-smelling exhaust. Choosing the wrong fuel additives might also increase pollutants. Driving habits matter too – aggressive driving with heavy throttle inputs increases engine emissions. To enjoy car culture while being eco-conscious, it's important to learn proper maintenance like not neglecting oxygen sensors, avoiding fines and protecting your beloved car's reputation.
