The state of Texas has an emission testing program required for first time vehicle registrations to reduce the source of pollution within the state, as mandated by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Safety inspections and in some areas, vehicle emission testing is required annually. This program is referred to as Air Check Texas.
Not all counties are required to do an emission test. Each county decides which type of emission test they would require. Examples of counties requiring emission test include Montgomery, El Paso, Dallas, and Rockwall. The state also provides exemptions to some vehicle types such as those displaying a slow-vehicle emblem, farm machinery, and motor homes.
Seek repair assistance before going through the actual emissions test. Some people would think that their vehicles are tuned up and ended up the opposite after the test. If you are having vehicle problems beforehand, visit the nearest repair center and have it checked.
Do the smog test during nice weather. Too much wind or cold weather requires longer time to run the engine in order to achieve good operating temperature.
Use the recommended gasoline. You should follow the car's recommended gasoline intake to make sure there are no malfunctions since the manufacturers would recommend compliance with the gasoline types and brands based on the vehicle model.
Change your oil. It can help you pass the emissions test since the process would get rid of contaminated oil content and would definitely reduce emissions of nitrogen oxide.
Drive at least 20 miles before going though the emission station. This will ensure that the engine is in good condition before running the test.
Provide the vehicle's year, model, and weight corectly. The type of test required is dependent to the type of vehicle at hand. In Texas, if your emission test expired while you are out of state, it should be done right after you went back home to stay legal. In Texas, if your emission test expired while you were out of state, it should be done right after you return home to stay within the law.
Observe the testing process. Make sure the technician is well trained to do the test. If you think the fail mark is caused by an incompetent technician, feel free to inquire for credentials.
