What to Do with Vehicles That Fail Emission Standards?
2 Answers
Vehicles that fail to meet emission standards can be improved by installing exhaust purification devices. For gasoline vehicles, a three-way catalytic converter with an electronically controlled air supplement system can be installed, while diesel vehicles can be equipped with an exhaust smoke purification device. When vehicle emissions fail to meet standards, the first things to consider are the three-way catalytic converter and the front oxygen sensor. Incomplete combustion of the engine's air-fuel mixture can generate a large amount of carbon deposits, which can accumulate inside the three-way catalytic converter and on the oxygen sensor. Cleaning the three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor can resolve emission issues. If, after cleaning the three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor, and replacing the spark plugs, the vehicle's emissions still fail to meet standards—assuming there are no faults with sensors such as the air flow meter and temperature sensor—a thorough engine carbon cleaning maintenance should be performed.
I once encountered an issue with my car's excessive emissions. My first reaction was not to panic but to quickly find a reliable repair shop for an inspection. Common causes might include a clogged or aged catalytic converter, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, or an EGR valve failure—these faulty components can lead to excessive exhaust emissions. Try some simple diagnostics yourself, such as listening for unusual engine noises or smelling for odd odors in the exhaust. If emissions are indeed excessive, it could cause trouble during the annual inspection, possibly resulting in fines or mandatory repairs. If the car is relatively new, a few hundred dollars might cover the cost of replacing a small part. However, if it's an older car over ten years, a full repair might not be cost-effective, and it may be better to consider trading it in for a new energy vehicle that meets the latest emission standards—there are some attractive government subsidy policies available now. Regular maintenance can prevent such issues, so don’t wait until right before the annual inspection to rush around.
