The Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) requires emissions testing for Fort Washington, MD vehicles every two years. Automotive inspection stations that have earned state approval are considered Certified Emissions Repair Facilities or CERFs.
Wiygul Automotive CERF rated clinics employ Master Certified Emissions Technicians. These specialists have extensive training above that of the average mechanic, and each of our facilities maintains the diagnostic equipment required to perform both the Idle Tailpipe and Gas Cap Tests and the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) test.
The Idle Tailpipe and Gas Cap Test is necessary for 1977 model and newer heavy-duty vehicles with a weight of 8,501 - 26,000 pounds. A 1976 Dodge fits this category, but a 1978 model does not. Wiygul technicians drive these category vehicles at highway speeds for at least 20 minutes before beginning the test to warm up the exhaust for a proper test sample.
Most vehicles pass the inspection, but a failed test can occur if the gas cap is missing, cracked, or is the wrong one for that model vehicle. It can also fail if the catalytic converter is damaged or missing, or if components of the exhaust system have leaks or holes that prevent taking a valid exhaust sample.
Technicians at our Fort Washington, MD automotive inspection station, perform the OBD test for light-duty trucks and passenger vehicles with the model year 1996 or newer light-duty trucks and passenger vehicles. A 1997 Toyota would fit in this category, but a 1995 model does not.
They also perform the OBD test for heavy-duty vehicles up to 14,000 pounds that are the model year of 2008 or newer. A 2009 BMW commercial truck fits this category, but a 2007 model does not.
Technicians use a scanner to link to the auto's On-Board Diagnostic computer. The OBD device detects failing components in the emissions control system. Malfunctioning components can cause false PASS or FAIL results and permit the exhaust system to exceed pollution limits.
Before you bring in your vehicle for inspection, make certain the amber-colored "check engine," or another warning light is not on. If it is, the vehicle will fail the OBD test. Check with your area dealer or a Wiygul certified repair technician for repairs or replacement before testing.
If your Fort Washington, MD car or truck fails testing at our automotive inspection station, you need to schedule repairs and retest quickly. If your vehicle fails again, you can receive a waiver from the MVA. Submit the original receipts showing the repair costs exceeded $450.00 for only the emission system. All repairs submitted must have been accomplished 30 days or earlier before the first inspection and no more than 120 days after the last one. The MVA waiver is valid for two years from the original test date.
If your next emissions test is due, contact us at 866-702-8050 for the nearest Wiygul Automotive Clinic and schedule an appointment.
