What should a technician do if no underhood label is present during the visual inspection?

When a technician encounters a vehicle with no underhood label present, consulting the ECS (Emissions Control System) manual or BAR (Bureau of Automotive Repair) approved referee material is the appropriate course of action. This approach ensures that the technician has access to accurate and reliable information regarding the specific emissions components that should be present in the vehicle. By referring to these authoritative resources, the technician can determine what the emissions system should include based on the vehicle's make, model, and year, thereby adhering to regulatory requirements and avoiding the risks associated with making assumptions.

Using resources like the ECS manual provides clarity on the expected equipment that should be identified during the visual inspection, which is critical in ensuring compliance with emissions regulations. This methodical approach not only enhances the accuracy of the inspection but also demonstrates professionalism and diligence in the technician's work. It is essential to have validated information to ensure that any emissions-related components that are missing or present are correctly assessed.