If your car is a newer model, you probably won’t have any problem passing a smog or emissions test. However, if you’re driving an older model car, taking it in for an emissions test can be stressful. If your car fails, you won’t be able to renew your vehicle registration. You’ll need to make the necessary repairs and find used auto parts before your car can be tested again.

Unfortunately, mechanics won’t always be able to resolve the problem on their first attempt. So, you may end up having your car tested, repaired, and tested again before another trip the repair shop. And each visit means more time and money. To say the ordeal is inconvenient would be an understatement.

Below, I’ll explain why properly maintaining your car is the best way to ensure that it passes the emissions test. Then, I’ll describe how emissions test waivers work.

Good Car Maintenance

Car emissions tests are required by the government in the pursuit of cleaner air. If your car spews toxic gases and fumes, the government wants you to either correct the problem or stop driving your car. The most effective way to make sure your car passes the emissions test is to maintain it over time. There are a lot of things you can do to substantially reduce the emissions coming from your car.

For example, your catalytic converter should prevent your car from releasing pollutants such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. If it’s not working properly (a mechanic can test it), consider having it replaced. You should also replace your air and fuel filters regularly. Have your oil changed every 4,000 miles (or, according to your car manufacturer’s handbook). If you’re driving an older car, check the carburetor to make sure it’s functioning well. Anything that you can do to help your engine run cleaner and more efficiently will reduce your car’s emissions.

Settling For A Waiver

A lot of states offer an emissions test waiver to those people who can’t seem to pass the test after repeated repairs. The theory is that these drivers have made a significant attempt to comply, investing both time and money in the process. As such, many states will grant a waiver that helps drivers avoid the mounting costs of continuous repairs. The waivers are typically offered after the driver spends a certain dollar amount on repairs.

Facing The Inevitable

Unfortunately, in most states, you won’t be able to escape the mandatory emissions tests. Eventually, you’ll need to either pass the test or acquire a waiver in order to have your car registration renewed. Keep your vehicle well maintained and replace parts whenever the need arises. If you neglect to do these things, you’ll increase the likelihood that your car will fail the emissions test. And that can be… inconvenient.

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Car Repair: Basics Of A Valve Job

If you put a lot of miles on your car, or you’ve purchased a used vehicle that already has a lot of mileage, you’ll eventually need a valve job. The valves open and close, controlling how much air and fuel reach your engine’s cylinders. When there’s a problem, it can have an impact on your engine’s power. Cars usually need to have the valves looked at after reaching 80,000 miles. If neglected, you’ll likely notice the performance of your car declining. Below, I’ll describe a few reasons to have a mechanic look at your car’s intake valves. I’ll also provide a brief overview of a valve job.

Reasons To Have A Valve Job

A lot of older model cars that have a lot of mileage can experience problems with the intake valve. Because the valve plays a key role in allowing air and fuel into your car’s engine (through the cylinders), a problem can slowly deteriorate the power of your engine. Also, if a crack occurs in the cylinder head, coolant can reach the combustion chamber. When that happens, it can damage your engine’s cylinders. Finally, if your car has a burned intake valve, the engine may begin burning oil (you’ll likely be able to smell it). If you continue to drive with a faulty valve, you’ll notice a reduction in horsepower and even smoke billowing from your car’s exhaust.

What Is Involved?

A car technician will start by taking apart the cylinder head. He’ll want to check for tiny cracks or any signs of warping. If he finds any cracks - even small ones - he might be able to repair them through welding if the head is aluminum. If the cylinder head is made from cast iron, he may be able to fix the cracks with pinning (i.e. threading pins to seal the cracks). If he’s unable to repair them, the head will need to be replaced.

Once the cracks in the cylinder head have been repaired, it will usually be pressure tested for any leaks. Then, the technician will test the head for flatness to ensure it fits seamlessly with the head gasket. The valves and seats are then examined to check whether they need to be replaced or relined. A lot of repair shops will simply replace the valves instead of repairing them. Doing so helps to prevent failure due to overheating. Also, if the head’s seats are worn too badly, they’ll be replaced, as well.

Finally, the technician will look at the valve springs, including the retainers, to ensure they can provide sufficient pressure. If they’re damaged in any way, they’ll be replaced. Once all of the parts have been inspected, repaired, or replaced, the components are reassembled and the valves are “shimmed” to make sure they’re the right height.

Some drivers aspire to doing their own valve jobs. While it’s certainly possible with the proper equipment, it’s time-intensive and requires precision. Unless you’re unusually familiar with your car’s engine and cylinder head, you should have a trained mechanic perform the job.

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