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PA VEHICLE COMPUTER EMISSIONS MONITOR TO BE PART OF INS. PRO.

Release Date: 07/12/96
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PA VEHICLE COMPUTER EMISSIONS MONITOR TO BE PART OF INS. PRO.

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 1996

VEHICLE COMPUTER EMISSIONS MONITOR
TO BE PART OF INSPECTION PROGRAM

EPA has finalized a rule that establishes a program for inspecting vehicles equipped with an on-board diagnostic (OBD) system. This rule is part of the vehicle emission inspections that will begin Jan. 1, 1998, except for certain areas in the Northeast Ozone Transport Region eligible for the low enhanced inspection maintenance (I/M) program. Testing will include l996 and newer model-year vehicles. EPA said failure of the test will not result in required repairs until Jan. 1, 2000, but would require subsequent testing under the existing I/M test procedure. During the two-year test period, EPA in cooperation with states and motor vehicle manufacturers will gather data on the effectiveness of the OBD system. Eventually, the OBD test could provide states with additional flexibility in tailoring an individual emission check program to suit a particular area's emission reduction needs. The diagnostic computer system monitors the vehicle's engine and emission-control system each time a vehicle is driven. Information on malfunctions of various emission control components is identified and stored in a memory bank for access by service technicians. On-board diagnostics is part of an overall EPA strategy to improve emission related maintenance and reduce ozone and carbon monoxide levels.

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