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FAQs

How do I pass an emissions test in Illinois? ›

Provides that, to qualify for the exemption, each owner of the vehicle must certify the vehicle's odometer reading at the time of certification, that each owner is or will be 65 years of age or older on the scheduled date of the next mandatory inspection, and that the vehicle is being driven 5,000 miles or less ...

In Illinois, you may need to get your car's emissions tested. If you don't, you may be fined over $300.

Typically, wait times are shortest during the middle of the month; middle of the week and after 5 p.m. on weekdays; and Saturday afternoons.

A vehicle will not pass an emissions test when the check engine light is on. If the battery has been disconnected or the trouble codes erased, you will have to drive the vehicle under varying conditions for up to one week before it will pass.

You Won't Pass Inspection with Check Engine Light On

It could be a relatively minor problem with the gas cap or spark plugs, or something more serious like a leaky gas tank. In any case, never try to pass inspection with check engine light on.

Vehicles exempt from emissions testing include the following: Cars built in 1967 or before. Vehicles built in 1995 or before if compliant with the Illinois Vehicle Emissions Inspection Law as of Feb.

If you were due for an emissions test this year, you will need to complete that requirement next year prior to getting your license plate renewal sticker.

Code Section 276.401, you must submit proof that a minimum expenditure of at least $450 in emissions-related repairs, exclusive of tampering-related repairs, have been made. Repairs made must be consistent with the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) present at the time of the initial failure.

The Intra State Permit 7 Day:

Provides temporary registration within the state of Illinois to operate an unregistered vehicle. It can be used for registration extension for EPA testing, other inspections, and test driving a vehicle. A maximum of three 7-day permits can be issued per vehicle, per year.

What counties in Illinois do not require emissions testing? ›

Illinois EPA has an exempt vehicle list available on the Agency website. In addition, some ZIP codes in Kane, Kendall, McHenry, Will, Madison, Monroe and St. Clair counties are also exempt from testing.

In Illinois, drivers must receive an emissions inspection every two years, starting from the year when the vehicle turns four model years old. All drivers in Cook, Dupage, and Lake counties must receive regular emission inspections.

A smog check may involve running the engine at high speeds while the vehicle is stationary. To prevent vapor from getting into the fuel line and throwing off the test results, go in with a full tank of gas and a topped-off coolant system.

For example, let's say you are due for an oil change. Low oil might cause some of the above symptoms, and it is best to get this service done as soon as possible to protect your engine. However, because engine oil is not technically a safety component, it will not cause you to fail your inspection.

A rich air/fuel mixture can result in a failed emissions test. This problem is often the result of faulty injectors or a defective oxygen sensor. If you fail emissions, make sure to have these parts inspected and have them changed out if necessary.

Faulty sensors: A failing oxygen sensor or bad mass airflow sensor can trigger your "check engine light." Other issues: A gas cap that's loose, cracked, or otherwise ill-fitting can cause an emissions test failure. Waiting too long between oil changes or replacing your engine air filter can also be the culprit.

If three or more monitors are not set to ready on a 1996-2000 model year car, it will fail the emissions retest. If your car is 2001 or newer, it will be rejected if two or more monitors are not ready".