Failed CA Smog Test. '03 ST

[Lee Block]

I have an '03 ST 4wd with 78k, KN air filter, always used Mobil 1. I just failed the CA smog test.



I passed all at the 15mph test but failed the 25mph test for HC's. Max is 32ppm and mine was 42ppm.



I'm seeking advise as to what could be causing this higher reading and possible fixes.



Thanks,

Lee

 

[Dave S 2]

Have you recently (last couple of days) disconnected the battery for any reason? Asking because if you have, it hasn't yet reset / learned your driving habits. I believe the manual addresses the proper way to dirve after a battery disconnect / reset in order to pass an inspection in short order time.



If not, maybe someone else has another idea why you failed testing.

 

[scott degroot]

Hc's are caused by incomplete combustion like what would happen with a misfire. My first instinct with yours is to tell you to clean the maf. A dirty maf usually goes more askew at higher loads which may be why you passed the 15 and not the 25. if you post all of your readings I can tell you better if it is running a bit rich or lean and be of more help on this issue.



FWIW I hold a State of CA Advanced Emission Specialist license even though I now live in AZ and have done CA smog testing for years so I do know what I am talking about here

 

[Todd Z]

Glad we are just OBD2 testing here...... Since the change, the old system was a PITA....



Now if the safety is good, and NO cel.... you pass....



Todd Z

 

[Bill Barber]

just passed kali with a ton of mods no problem.

make sure the ST is really warmed up before the test, drive it like at least 10 miles.drive it hard.

 

[Rodger Tellefson]

Run a tank full of Techron Fuel Injector cleaner through before you re-test. That will help. And, just for good measure do the Seaform cleaning project too.

 

[EddieS'04]

In Texas OBD2, they plug into the port. Tailpipe sniff on OBD 1 only. 25 years old is only a safety test for inspection.

 

[Tom Schindler]

Personally, the first thing I would do is change the spark plugs. Cleaning the MAF sensor is another good idea. As with everything, start with the easy stuff first. Cleaning the MAF sensor first would be the simplist and easiest one to do.



With 78,000 miles on it, changing the plugs and wires is something that should be done.



Use Motorcraft plugs and some high quality wires. Personally, I like Taylor-Vertex wires. High quality at an affordable price.





Tom

 

[gary s]

move to florida, no inspection



i registered all my cars there

 

[Lee Block]

l1tech, here are my numbers.



15mph - %CO2 15.3, %O2-0, HC45, CO%.02, NO-0

25mph - %CO2 15.3, %O2-0, HC42, CO% .01 NO-0



Regarding the MAF. I believe I read here to be careful when using KN filter as to not install unless oil is completely dry. I have a stock filter I use until the KN is dried overnight before I use it. Is the MAF the square sensor mounted to the air filter intake tube?



Regarding the other replies. The place I take my truck is 15mi away and I drove the ST on the freeway and it sat in the parking lot for maybe 15min before they put on the dyno. He told me they did warm it up before test.



Caymen. I will take your advise and try cleaning MAF first, then plugs/wires.



Lastly, moving to FLA might be cheaper than getting the fix for this to pass



Thanks for all the replies.

 

[Richard L]

Many emmission control items are covered under warranty for 80K miles or 8 years by federal law. The only glitch in that idea is the auto manufacturer is permitted to make the list of emmisions control items that are covered. The only way you can find out what the problem is and if it's covered under the warranty is to go to the dealer and have them diagnose the problem and make the repairs.



The Parts guy is required to keep a list of all the parts that are covered under the 80K/8 yyr emmissions warranty. If they replaced any of those parts they must reimburse you for the parts and the labor required to install those parts. If you tell them you failed the states emmissions test, the honest dealership will make repairs and take those cover parts and labor off the bill before you even get it. But if they don't show any warranty covered parts, you can go to the parts department with you invoice and see if they are on the list of warrantied parts.



...Rich

 

[Lee Block]

Rich, thanks for that info. I'll call my dealer and find out more. Did not take to them initially but think I will for the retest.



Lee