Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection Program

1996 and Newer Vehicles: On-Board Diagnostic Rejection/Failure Information I VIR Explanation I Emission Repair Facility Report I TSB Link I Technical Assistance I

1996 and Newer Vehicles: On-Board Diagnostics (OBD II) Rejection/Failure Information

If your 1996 or newer vehicle was rejected or failed the emissions inspection the following steps can assist you in the process of getting your vehicle into compliance.

Step 1:	Review your Vehicle Inspection Report to determine if your test result was a Reject or Fail.
Step 2:	Review your vehicle’s warranty to find out what repairs may be covered. Federal law requires that the emission control systems on 1995 and newer model year vehicles be warranted for a minimum of two years or 24,000 miles. Coverage for the on-board computer and catalytic converter is extended to eight years or 80,000 miles.
Step 3:	Correct the problem. A list of state registered repair facilities is available to help you make decisions about where to have your vehicle repaired.
Step 4:	Return to an Emission Inspection Facility for a re-test. If any repairs were made on your vehicle, the person who made the repairs must complete and sign the back of your Vehicle Inspection Report before you return for a retest. Failure to have this form properly completed and signed could result in your vehicle being refused for a retest. If your vehicle passes, you can renew your vehicle registration. If you vehicle fails or is rejected, it is HIGHLY recommended that you speak with a Station Manager prior to seeking additional repairs.

If your vehicle failed an OBD test…

Listed below are common reason a vehicle might fail an OBD test:

The vehicle’s OBD system connector has been removed, not accessible or is otherwise not working properly. The OBD check cannot be completed if the connector is missing or is not working properly.
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is not working. The MIL functions to let the vehicle operator know when there is a problem with the vehicle.
The MIL is illuminated. You may see a “Service Engine Soon” or “Check Engine” light lit up. This indicates that there is a problem with your vehicle. The specific Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be listed on the Vehicle Inspection Report. These DTC’s will help your technician diagnose and repair your vehicle. A qualified, trained automotive service technician equipped with the appropriate diagnostic repair tools can repair your vehicle.

Depending on your vehicle’s age and mileage, repairs may be covered under the vehicle manufacturer’s warranty.

If your vehicle was rejected for an OBD test…

The vehicle’s OBD system is not ready. Each OBD system is comprised of several monitors that evaluate specific aspects of the emission control system. If the monitors have not completed their internal tests, the OBD system is “not ready” to report its status. Problems may be present, but not yet identified. A recently disconnected or discharged (run down) battery, or recent servicing or “clearing codes” with a scan tool are the most likely reasons for a vehicle’s OBD system being “not ready.”

For 1996-2000 model year vehicles, we are not able to retest the vehicle if more than two readiness monitors are not set. For 2001 and newer model year vehicles, if more than one readiness monitor is not set we are unable to retest the vehicle. Check your Vehicle Inspection Report for the specific monitors that were not ready.

In order for the OBD systems to become ready, the vehicle should be driven under a variety of normal operating conditions including a mix of highway driving, stop and go driving and at least one overnight off period.

The vehicle’s owner’s manual may provide more specific information on getting your vehicle’s OBD system ready. Of course, you may also consult a dealership or repair facility in the event that your vehicle’s OBD system is not ready.

1995 and Older Vehicles: Failed Test Prior to July 2008

Beginning July 1, 2008, most model year 1968-1995 vehicles will no longer need to meet the emission testing requirement prior to license plate renewal or at the time the vehicle changes ownership and is registered. The only 1968-1995 model year vehicles that will need to come to an inspection station to complete the testing process after June 30th are those that failed the emission equipment inspection. This equipment inspection requirement does not include gas cap failures. Please see a manager in the office area of any inspection facility for further information.

While repairs and retest are not required for most 1968-1995 vehicles that had failed an emission inspection previously, here are several reasons to consider pursuing an appropriate vehicle repair:

Timely repairs will help preserve your vehicle's market value.
Timely repairs will help preserve any extended warranties for your vehicle.
Emissions-related repairs frequently result inn improved fuel economy and drivability.

Need more time?

It is not legal to operate a vehicle with expired license plates. However, you may legally drive a vehicle from a place it is kept to an emission testing station and back, for the purpose of having an emission inspection.

A vehicle that does not pass the emission inspection, which has expired registration within a couple of days, may still be operated for a period of 30 days with the purchase of a temporary license plate. The vehicle cannot be operated until the temporary plate is placed on the vehicle. The fee for a temporary plate is $8.00 if purchased at an emission testing station or at a Motor Vehicle office offering registration services. Only cash or checks are accepted. Or an application for a temporary plate can be mailed along with $3.00 to the motor vehicle office in Madison. If your plates have expired or will expire before you are able to have your vehicle repaired and you may be eligible to purchase a temporary 30-day plate from any emission testing station, DMV Customer Service Center or through the mail. If this is a recently purchased vehicle, and you had received a notice to have the testing completed within 45 days, please call 608-266-1466 for a one-time 30 day extension.

Temporary license plates are not available for vehicles with suspended registrations.

The temporary plate application is not available from our website. It is only available at the offices where the plate can be obtained.