What are the two primary components tested during an emissions inspection?

During an emissions inspection, the focus is on assessing the pollutants emitted from the vehicle as well as the operational status of crucial vehicle systems that manage emissions. The two primary components tested are tailpipe emissions and the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system.

Tailpipe emissions testing measures the actual exhaust gases released by the vehicle during operation. This includes a variety of harmful pollutants such as hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. These measurements help ensure that vehicles meet regulatory standards for air quality and public health.

The OBD system plays a critical role by monitoring the performance of various engine and emissions control systems in real-time. It alerts inspectors to any malfunctions or inefficiencies that may lead to increased emissions. If the OBD system identifies issues, it may trigger a check-engine light, indicating that further investigation is needed.

Together, these components provide a comprehensive assessment of the vehicle's emissions performance and its compliance with environmental regulations.