The Two-Speed Idle Test

The two-speed idle test is performed on 1981 and older gasoline-powered passenger cars and light duty trucks, and on 1982 and newer gasoline-powered, heavy duty vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) greater than 8,500 lbs. The idle test uses a tachometer and a probe to monitor idle emissions. This test analyzes the carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions, but not oxides of nitrogen (NOx). There is no driving simulation.

Test Process

A probe is placed in the tailpipe to measure pollutants during the test. Pollutants are measured in parts per million (ppm) and percent (%).

A contact tachometer sensor is clipped to the spark plug wires under the hood, or if the spark plugs are inaccessible a non-contact tachometer is placed on the hood of the vehicle. An inspector starts the engine and lets it idle for 30 seconds, then runs the engine at 2500 rpm for 30 seconds, and finally lets the vehicle idle for 30 more seconds.

Exemptions

A few vehicles are exempt from emissions testing, and a small group of 1982 and newer passenger vehicles is tested with the two-speed idle test instead of with the I/M 240 test.

View emissions limits for passenger cars, light duty trucks and heavy duty trucks.