Dynamometer Testing Starts in State's Smoggiest Areas

2 June 1998

    SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 1 -- Motorists in California's
smoggiest regions will begin using dynamometers to conduct vehicle emissions
testing beginning June 8, the Department of Consumer Affairs/Bureau of
Automotive Repair (DCA/BAR) announced today.
    "On June 8, the Smog Check program will take a major step toward becoming
a repair program, and not merely a testing program," said Bureau Chief
K. Martin Keller.  "The dynamometer equipment allows technicians to more
precisely diagnose and repair vehicles that do not meet emissions standards."
    The dynamometer is a treadmill-like device that allows vehicle emissions
to be tested under simulated driving conditions.  Besides measuring
hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) levels, this system will soon
measure an additional pollutant known as oxides of nitrogen, or NOx, which is
a key ingredient in smog formation.  Measurements for NOx will begin sometime
this summer.
    "In order for this program to improve California's air quality, it is
absolutely critical for technicians to have adequate time to become proficient
in diagnosing and repairing more complicated vehicle emissions-related
problems," said Keller.  "The key to the success of the Smog Check program is
not only ensuring that proper inspections are performed by Smog Check
stations, but also ensuring the quality of repairs for motorists and for our
air."
    Dynamometer testing is one of many key elements required by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency to help bring California into
compliance with the federal Clean Air Act of 1990.
    To keep repair costs from becoming too burdensome, most consumers will be
eligible for a one-time, two-year waiver if they've spent at least $450 on
emissions-related repairs but still can't pass their Smog Checks.  For
low-income motorists, the amount is only $250.
    Only vehicles registered in California's most polluted areas are subject
to the more precise dynamometer testing.  Smog Check stations outside these
"Enhanced Areas" will continue inspecting vehicles with the same two-speed
idle test they've been using since 1984.
    Enhanced Area vehicles are determined by the zip codes on their
registrations.  Consumers can determine which area their vehicles are
registered in by visiting the Bureau of Automotive Repair website at
http://www.smogcheck.ca.gov or by calling the Department of Consumer Affairs hotline
at 800-952-5210.