## Can a Car Pass Inspection with the Check Engine Light On?
When your car’s check engine light illuminates, it can be a worrying sign. But what does it mean for your car’s inspection? Here’s what you need to know.
### What is the Check Engine Light?
The check engine light is a warning light on your dashboard that indicates there is a problem with your car’s engine or emissions system. It can be triggered by various issues, including:
– Faulty spark plugs or ignition coils
– Problems with the fuel system (e.g., clogged fuel filter, faulty fuel pump)
– Issues with the emissions control system (e.g., faulty catalytic converter, oxygen sensor)
– Transmission problems
– Electrical issues
– And more
### Can a Car Pass Inspection with the Check Engine Light On?
The answer to this question depends on the specific state or jurisdiction where the inspection is being conducted. In general, however, most states do not allow cars with the check engine light on to pass inspection.
The reason for this is that the check engine light indicates that there is a significant problem with the car’s engine or emissions system. This problem could potentially compromise the car’s safety or emissions performance, which is why it is considered a failure in most inspections.
### Exceptions
There are some exceptions to this rule. In some states, cars may be allowed to pass inspection with the check engine light on if:
– The problem is minor and does not affect the car’s safety or emissions performance.
– The car is being inspected for a specific purpose (e.g., registration renewal) and the problem does not relate to the specific purpose of the inspection.
### What to Do If Your Car Fails Inspection Due to the Check Engine Light
If your car fails inspection due to the check engine light, you should take the following steps:
1. Have the problem diagnosed: Take your car to a mechanic to have the problem diagnosed and repaired.
2. Get a repair order: Once the problem has been repaired, get a repair order from the mechanic that documents the repair.
3. Return for re-inspection: Take your car back to the inspection station with the repair order. The inspector will verify that the problem has been repaired and will issue you a passing inspection certificate.
### Conclusion
In most states, a car cannot pass inspection with the check engine light on. This is because the check engine light indicates that there is a problem with the car’s engine or emissions system that could potentially compromise its safety or emissions performance. If your car fails inspection due to the check engine light, you should have the problem diagnosed and repaired before returning for re-inspection.