Will a Car Pass Vermont State Inspection With Check Engine Light On?
When it's on...it's on! We're talking about your Check Engine Light...that is. If you're like most drivers in Vermont, an illuminated Check Engine Light may not appear to be a big deal.
While it truly may not be a big deal, it could be an indication that a bigger deal will transpire if you don't handle this not-so-big deal today.In other words, your Check Engine Light isn't there for show. Instead, the Check Engine Light is like an early warning indicator that something is awry with your vehicle.
While your vehicle can't talk, it can illuminate the Check Engine Light. It's imperative you heed this warning. Failure to do so could turn a minor molehill into a much, much more expensive mountain. Even so, many Vermont drivers tend to overlook the Check Engine Light with minimal concern....until it's time for the Vermont State Inspection. If this explains you and your concerns, read on to learn more about whether your car will pass a Vermont State Inspection with a Check Engine Light on.
Will My Car Pass a Vermont State Inspection if the Check Engine Light Is On?
Simply put, the answer is NO. However, if you are worried about the Check Engine Light making you fail the Vermont State Inspection, you're not alone. In fact, a substantial 14% of Vermonters didn't pass the State Inspection in 2017 because of the Check Engine Light. Back then, however, an illuminated Check Engine Light would result in you getting a "conditional pass" — even though your vehicle didn't meet the emissions standards. In January of 2019, this changed, and a Check Engine Light will cause you to fail your state inspection test.
What Does an Illuminated Check Engine Light Mean
If your Check Engine indicator is illuminated, it could mean that there is a problem with your vehicle's emissions system, which will make you fail the state inspection. In addition, many other vehicle systems will have their own indicator warning light, such as the transmission, radiator, and brakes. The engine light lets you know when something outside of these three systems is malfunctioning. In addition to faulty emissions systems, other common Check Engin Light triggers include:
Mass airflow sensor malfunctions
The dying catalytic converter
Malfunctioning O2 Sensor
Low oil pressure
Faulty spark plugs
Loose spark plugs
And several other reasons.
However, before you freak out about your Check Engine light, it could also be the fact that your gas cap is loose or unsealed.
Q: Help! I Failed My State Inspection...What's a Girl (or Guy) to Do?
A: Contact Girlington Garage
We get it — state inspections in South Burlington, VT can be unnerving for anyone. And if you're a woman or someone inexperienced with car repair it can be even more unnerving waiting for the repair bill. Fortunately, the women at Girlington Garage can help.
We are a woman-owned and woman-operated garage in South Burlington VT. Since 2009, we've been delivering fair and transparent solutions. Most importantly, we treat everyone with the respect and dignity they deserve. Whether you need a Vermont state inspection or want your Check Engine Light diagnosed, girls do it better!
Schedule your appointment today at Girlington Garage in South Burlington, VT, stop by to see us at 2 Harbor View Rd in South Burlington VT, or give us a call at 802-247-7917.
