What to Do If You Are Caught by Surveillance for Failing the Exhaust Emission Test?
2 Answers
Exceeding the exhaust emission standards may result in a fine of up to 200 yuan for the driver and a deduction of 3 points. Below are the reasons that may cause excessive exhaust emissions: 1. The main reason is the use of low-quality fuel. It is advisable to choose gas stations of well-known brands when refueling. 2. Using low-quality fuel can lead to incomplete combustion in the engine, resulting in carbon buildup. 3. A clogged catalytic converter or a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can also cause excessive exhaust emissions. Here are some precautions regarding exhaust emissions: 1. During the annual inspection, the OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) will be checked, which primarily monitors whether the vehicle's exhaust emissions meet the standards. 2. If the OBD check fails, the annual inspection will be affected. Therefore, before the inspection, you can visit a 4S shop to check if there are any fault codes in the OBD. 3. If there are any fault codes, they should be cleared promptly. After clearing the fault codes, the vehicle should be driven sufficiently for a certain distance before the annual inspection to ensure there are no major issues during the OBD check.
Last time my car failed the emissions test and got caught red-handed by a surveillance camera—my heart sank when I received that ticket. I immediately dug out the vehicle’s warranty manual to check if there was an issue with the exhaust system. Common problems like a worn-out catalytic converter or a dirty oxygen sensor require professional inspection and repair. I took it to the repair shop for a diagnosis, replaced the faulty parts, and spent a few hundred bucks to fix it. Then, I quickly scheduled a retest with the environmental department. After obtaining the compliance certificate, I submitted it to the traffic bureau to request a ticket dismissal or fee reduction. Remember not to delay—if you get caught again or miss the deadline, the fine could double, making things worse. Daily driving habits matter too: avoid overloading or using low-quality fuel, and stick to regular maintenance like oil changes and air filter replacements to prevent emissions violations. This experience taught me to prioritize my car’s health—it saves both hassle and money in the long run.
