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Failed a Utah emissions test? Your options

A failure blocks registration renewal in the five testing counties, but there are standard next steps.

1. Read the failure reason

Most 1996 and newer vehicles get an OBD (on-board diagnostics) test. Under the Cache County regulation, if the check engine light (MIL) is commanded on while the engine runs, the vehicle fails regardless of stored codes. A vehicle can also be rejected if its readiness monitors are not set, which often happens after a battery disconnect or recent repair; it then needs more driving before a retest. (Source: Bear River Health Department (Cache County))

2. Check the federal emissions warranty

Utah County notes that the catalytic converter, powertrain control module and OBD system are covered for 8 years or 80,000 miles. Cache County's regulation says vehicles within warranty must be repaired, not waived. (Source: Utah County Bureau of Air Quality; Bear River Health Department (Cache County))

3. Ask about a free retest

In Cache County you get one free re-inspection at the same station within 15 calendar days. Other counties set their own rules; ask the station before you pay. (Source: Bear River Health Department (Cache County))

4. Waivers after repair spending

Davis and Cache figures from county sources. (Source: Davis County Health Department; Bear River Health Department (Cache County))

5. Repair or replacement assistance

Salt Lake and Davis counties list the Electric Vehicle Replacement Assistance Program (EVRAP), and Davis lists the Vehicle Repair Assistance Program (VRAP), for qualifying owners. (Source: Salt Lake County Health Department; Davis County Health Department)

The DMV says that if reasonable efforts have been made and the vehicle still will not pass, contact your county to see if you qualify for an exemption. (Source: Utah Division of Motor Vehicles)

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