Smog & Emission Checks

Maybe it is because the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is looming large just a few miles from the state line. Or maybe it is because Maryland serves as the outdoor playground for many of the district's politicos. After all, it is the home of Camp David and hundreds and hundreds of miles of inspiring coastline.

But whatever the reason, the state is exceptionally conscious when it comes to pollution. It doesn't matter whether it is air or light pollution, non-point pollution or water waste, the state generally has an innovative system in place to combat the problems.

It is especially true when it comes to the crud that shoots out of your vehicle's exhaust pipe. Thus, if you are living in Maryland and own and operate a vehicle, you will surely hear of the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP).

What is VEIP?

The program is a combined effort of the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) and the Maryland Department of Environment (MDE) to clean up the air. So far, the plan seems to be working (25 tons of nasty stuff kept out of the air each year).

Essentially, the program requires you to bring your vehicle in for an emissions test every two years. The state takes it seriously and wants you to follow suit. Just think of all the various types of pollution spewed into the air from the major traffic jams around Baltimore and Washington, D.C., alone.

All that engine idling can do some serious damage to the air. Thus, you can do your part to keep Maryland's air clean by making sure your vehicle's emission control system is up to par.

Types of Emissions Tests

The year of your vehicle determines what sort of testing it will undergo. Vehicles from the current two model years are exempt from the first round of testing. There are four varieties of analysis:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) Test

• For vehicles of model year 1996 and up and weighing under 8,500 pounds.

• What it does: Skips the tailpipe and exhaust completely and instead links into the vehicle's computer system (if it has one), searching for any sort of inconsistencies relating to the engine. If the Check Engine light blinks on at this point, things may not look so good for passing the test.

IM240 Dynamometer (a.k.a. the Treadmill) Test

• For vehicles of model years 1984 to 1995 and weighing under 8,500 pounds.

• What it does: Vehicle is set on rollers to simulate real driving while accumulating and sampling the exhaust in various situations.

Idle Test

• For vehicles of model years 1977 to 1983 and large trucks weighing up to 26,000 pounds.

• What it does: Emissions are pondered via computer while the vehicle sits idling.

Gas Cap Pressure and Leak Check

• For all vehicles.

• What it does: Makes sure that the cap is functioning properly and seals like it should.

What to Do; Where to Go; What to Pay

A renewal notice will be sent out about two months prior to your vehicle registration date. If you are one of those people who break out in hives at the first sight of a long line, then you might want to avoid the end-of-the-month rush. This is when people are fretting to get their registration current and find themselves heading to the same testing location at the exact same time. If you have no problem with this, consider bringing a book along while you idle away.

At the ground level you will be dealing with Environmental Systems Products of Maryland (ESP). This is who runs the testing centers peppered throughout the state. Note that not every county has a station, so you may have to drive a bit.

If you pass the initial visual inspection (meaning your car does not show up smoking) and then ace the emissions portion of the program, you will be issued a certificate. This will not only let you know when your next test will be, but it will also aid you in registering the vehicle.

The testing fee is $14.

Failed Test Repair Options

If your car is deemed to be clogging up the air with an unhealthy amount of carbon-related materials, then you will not be issued an emissions certificate. Instead you will be meeting with an onsite representative before you can leave the station. The agent will instruct you on what went wrong and what you need to do to correct the problem.

The next stop will be the mechanic's shop. You can search for garages in your area or view all the
authorized repair shops in the state.

Repairs must be completed within 120 days. At this time the vehicle will have to endure the test once again, mostly like sending you into a nail-biting session. At least the first retest is at no charge.

Repair Waivers

If for some reason your vehicle still cannot pass and repairs have been completed, a two-year repair waiver might be available to you. After that, it might be time to consider a new vehicle.

Requesting an Extension

There are numerous reasons why you may not be able to make it to a testing station before the date posted on your reminder note. In this instance you can plead for an extension online or by calling (800) 638-8347. VIEP is pretty lenient on this and will work with you. Generally, it takes a couple of days to issue the new deadline, which will be sent via mail.

Hybrids Everywhere

If you are one of the environmentally hip and have joined the hybrid craze, you may be exempt from emissions testing until 2009. See if your vehicle meets the requirements.

Reporting a Gross Polluter

To report a smoking vehicle in Maryland, call (866) 677-2833.

Other Programs Helping to Reduce Emissions

• Diesel Vehicle Emission Control Program
• Commuter Choice
• Alternative Fuel and Advanced Technology Vehicle Program