I My Vehicle Failed... Now What? >
Failed Vehicle Info I VIR Explanation I Test Limits I Emission Repair Facility Report I TSB Link I Technical Assistance I Why Emission Readings Vary

Failed Vehicle Information
Your vehicle's inspection results are shown on the "VEHICLE INSPECTION REPORT". Because the final result is "FAIL", your vehicle must be repaired, retested and either pass a reinspection or qualify for a waiver. In most cases, simple corrections can be made to bring the vehicle into compliance. The Vehicle Inspection Report describes why the vehicle did not pass the emissions test. This paper should be given to the person performing repairs so they can make the proper repairs.

What To Do Next:

•       Anyone may repair your vehicle.  However, only emission related repairs performed on the vehicle at a recognized repair facility may be used to be eligible for Technical Assistance Services and Diagnostic Waiver consideration.  A repair facility is recognized if it employs at least one recognized technician with ASE L1, WISETECH, or other accepted advanced emission training.  At the time of your vehicle's initial inspection, you were provided with a summary list of recognized repair facilities. 

•       The person who performs the repairs MUST complete the Repair Data Section (back of the VIR).  The vehicle cannot be retested without this information completed.

•       For OBD failures, if your vehicle's OBD system is not ready after repairs, it cannot be reinspected.   While this does not necessarily mean that your vehicle has a problem, it does indicate that your vehicle's OBD system has not yet completed its test, and problems may be present, but not yet identified.  A recently disconnected or discharged (run down) battery, or recent servicing using 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 2 readiness monitors are NOT set.  For 2001 and newer model year vehicles, more than 1 readiness monitor NOT set will prevent us from retesting the vehicle. 

•       Bring your vehicle to any emissions station for re-inspection.  The inspection requirement does not extend your registration renewal deadline.  Vehicles are eligible for a maximum of two free retests. Additional tests may be purchased at each emission station from the Station Manager in the office area.

•       If your vehicle is unable to pass reinspection, please see a station manager to discuss the repair and retest options. A station manager is located at each emission station.

If Your Vehicle Continues To Fail
In a very few cases, a vehicle does not pass after a second test.  When this happens, you can do several things.

•       Discuss the vehicle's test results with the repair technician who completed the repairs. 

•       Return the vehicle to the repair facility for additional diagnostic and repair work.

•       Check to see if there are any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by the vehicle's manufacturer related to the inspection failure.  If there are TSBs for your vehicle, have the repair technician determine if it is related to the OBD inspection failure.

•       Use the diagnostic service available at the Technical Assistance Centers if certain criteria are met.  The Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection Program provides a special free-of-charge evaluation for owners of vehicles that have failed the emission test two or more times.  Technicians will assist motorists with repair strategies for these vehicles.  Appointments can be scheduled through any inspection station facility manager.

Can My Vehicle Qualify For A Waiver:
Most OBDII equipped vehicles will not meet waiver requirements due the following:

• With vehicles equipped with OBDII systems, the check engine light (MIL) will not be commanded on unless the vehicle computer has determined that a component or system failure will adversely affect the emission levels of the vehicle.   It is for that reason that the check engine light would prevent a vehicle from receiving a waiver if the MIL light is commanded on.  This waiver requirement  has been in place since the implementation of the Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection Program in 1984.  Since the OBDII test is based on whether the MIL light has been commanded on, these vehicles would not be considered for cost waiver consideration.

• Diagnostic Waivers would be issued only at Technical Assistance Centers if it was determined after a diagnostic inspection that no additional repairs were needed due to limited conditions.

Is Your Car Under Warranty?

Repairs for your vehicle may be covered by the manufacturer's emission performance or defect warranty. Check your owner's manual or contact your dealer for details.  Federal law requires that the emission control systems on 1995 and newer model year vehicles be warranted for a minimum of 2 years or 24,000 miles.  Warranty coverage for the on-board computer and catalytic converter (only) is extended to 8 years or 80,000 miles for these same vehicles.  Many auto makers provide extended warranty coverage beyond that required by law.  So, depending on the model year and mileage of your vehicle, emission system repairs may be covered by the manufacturer.

Important Testing Information
The following information is provided to you at the time of the vehicle's emissions test failure. This information is a guide for you and your repair technician to determine what should be done to make the vehicle pass the inspection.

Vehicle Inspection Report: Provides important information about your emissions test and test results.

Repair Data Section: Is located on the back of the Vehicle Inspection Report. This section must be completed by the person performing repairs and must be provided when the vehicle is returned for a retest.

Diagnostic Sensor Report: Shows the fault codes from the engine's computer if so equipped and accessible.