Emissions test as a measure of combustion efficiency

Often emissions test for CO+CO2 as a measure of combustion efficiency. An ideal burning of a hydrocarbon would only release water vapor and carbon dioxide. Unfortunately engines are far from ideal, and the real chemistry of combustion is very complicated as a result. The pollutants in exhaust are what we call the byproducts of combustion. Bad fuel air ratios that cause noxious emissions are caused by the engine operating outside of its ideal rpm range. Engines have only one speed at which they produce the best ratio of power output to low emissions. Thus STAR smog check station is ready for cooperation and assistance. Unfortunately to work with transmissions for variable vehicle speed and power output variation, engines must operate over a wide range of speeds from idle to redline. Incomplete combustion also causes particulate matter and VOC/ HC to form. These dust/ soot/ vapors are extremely toxic: they are the parts that give some of the color and most of the nasty smell to v…
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Why The Smog Test

Smog testing is a requirement every two years. The DMV mails out registration notices that remind you about smog testing every other annual re-registration mailing. The notice will tell you whether or not you must have your test performed at a test-only station or if you can go to any testing center. Test-only stations are just as they sound: they do not offer repair or tuning services in the event that you fail your test. STAR smog check stations, equipped with the latest testing devices, are ready to check your vehicle.

You get two attempts at passing. If you fail the first time, you retune/repair the engine and you are allowed to retest for free at the same test station. Be sure to ask your test-only station if they will do this for you and report them if they don't. Beyond two fails you must take the vehicle to a special government approved repair shop (there are hundreds).  To solve this problem, we recommended making sure you go to a STAR s…

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