Need Help - Failed Emissions Test

[carlover2000]

Hello, I just took my car to get an emissions test and it failled the Idle test. I'm just wondering if anyone has any advice as to what to take a look at. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks. 1992 Leggy SS Auto.


Test Results:

2500 RPM / IDLE
Limit / Reading / Limit / Reading
HC ppm / 200 / 8 / 200 / 197
CO% / 1.00 / 0.00 / 1.00 / 3.55!!!

RPM / 2542 / 700
Dilution / 14.3 / 13.4

[Legacy777]

Your O2 sensor may need to be replaced.

Did you sit in line for a while, or did you drive right in? It helps to drive around and get the catalytic converter heated up before you go in for the test. Just a thought.

[carlover2000]

Thanks for the reply. I was driving around for about an hour before the etest and they took the car right in. I'll check out the O2 sensor and a couple other things later today.

[WagALeg92]

Strange when I did my idle test it was at idle around 450-500 RPM

And my buddies turbo wagon passed emissions without cats here in NY you might wanna try one of those "guaranteed to pass" kits you can get them at a local auto store its a fuel additive that can clean out your cats I've herd good things if there used right but from my knowledge ye old NA 2.2's are known for there low emissions

[Apex3]

No emissions tests FTW

I always see things like this as an opportunity to replace some things that probably should be replaced anyway. 02 sensor, air filter, spark plugs, etc... If the car is running fine it probably isn't any big deal, and even if these things aren't the problem they might push you over the edge to passing.

[evolutionmovement]

I'd also guess O2. And, though it might be a pain in the ass, I'm thankful for emissions and inspection. I've been places where there aren't either and I'd much rather breathe decent air and not have to dodge wrecks broken in the middle of the road or on-ramps. Places where they need a break down lane on both sides of the highway, like Detroit.

[SemperGuard]

Generally on these cars the O2 sensor doesn't do much. That's not to say that it will not fix your problem, just don't be surprised if nothing happens. Your test shows you running rich at idle, start with the basics and make sure everything is new, or in good condition. Plugs, wires, oil, etc.