Emissions Test
Pollution is the introduction of contaminants into the environment that leads to ecological damage. These harmful contaminants are known as pollutants. Pollution can have a negative impact on the quality of air, water and soil and have a dramatic effect on both climate and wildlife. Noise pollution is often caused by vehicles, aircraft and industrial machinery.
Although, carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most notorious pollutant in the automobile industry due to its contribution to the greenhouse effect, other gases must not be forgotten or overlooked: nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbons (HC) and particles as they too have a negative impact on the environment and on our health.
On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
ROLE: the OBD (On Board Diagnostic) system is a diagnostic system integrated into the vehicle. It is mainly used to check errors regarding the emissions system. An analysis of these codes helps specialists to find the cause of a failure or dysfunction.
Risks if non-compliant:
- It will be more difficult to detect failures or defects if the OBD system doesn’t work properly, which might cause engine failure, environmental pollution, excessive fuel consumption, etc.
Carbon Monoxide Percentage and Lambda Value of the Exhaust Gas
ROLE: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas produced when the fuel combustion reactions in gasoline engines are incomplete either through lack of oxygen or due to low mixing.
The lambda calculation determines the ratio of air to gas used in the injection system versus the amount that should be present to obtain perfect combustion. This test is carried out on gasoline vehicles.
Risks if non-compliant:
- Excessive emissions contribute to environmental pollution, reduce air quality and subsequently cause serious health problems for the human population.
- The engine performance may be compromised if the mixture is too lean or the catalytic converter is damaged.
- It may cause excessive fuel consumption.
Opacity of Exhaust Fumes
ROLE: the measurement of the smoke opacity reveals the density of particles exiting the vehicle through the exhaust.
The test is carried out on diesel vehicles.
Risks if non-compliant:
- The fumes may cause excessive pollution leading to environmental damage including air pollution and subsequently cause serious health problems for humans.
- It may cause excessive fuel consumption.
Emission Control Devices
ROLE: to reduce pollutant emissions, either by chemical reaction or by capturing the pollutants. This refers to the integrated particulate filter or catalyst convertors installed on the exhaust system.
Risks if non-compliant:
- A higher level of pollution will be generated.
Noise Level or Engine Noise
ROLE: to check noise level and identify any abnormal engine noises.
Risks if non-compliant:
- Engine damage and vehicle failure may occur.
- The exhaust system may be damaged and there may be increased emissions.
- Noise pollution may increase driver fatigue and disturb other road users
Liquid Leakage
ROLE: the inspector checks that there is no excessive leakage of liquid (oil, brake fluid, fuel, etc.) other than water from the vehicle.
Risks if non-compliant:
- Leakage of vehicle liquids other than water can cause serious environmental pollution, fires and accidents.