The Emissions Test Center Refused to Test My Vehicle. Why?

Vehicles in a potentially unsafe condition cannot be accepted for emissions testing. This is for the safety of inspectors and the protection of the vehicle. If your vehicle is rejected for testing you will be given a "Vehicle Unable to Test" form explaining the reason(s) why. There are a number of reasons a vehicle may be refused a test. Here are some of the most common:

Instability on Dynamometer

This means a vehicle will not stabilize on the dynamometer (treadmill), which could cause the vehicle to jump off of it during the test. Causes may include nonstandard tires that are too large for the dynamometer (can be no larger than 34 inches), worn or defective tires, alignment problems, insufficient ground clearance or other mechanical problems.

Vehicle Not Operating Normally

This may include vehicles that: will not idle between 350 and 1350 rpm, have one or more dashboard warning lights on, are leaking fuel, oil or coolant, are overheating, repeatedly stall or fail to start.

Potential Safety Problem

This can include noises including grinding, lack of adequate acceleration power, brakes with inadequate stopping power, or an unstable or slipping clutch.

Vehicle Has Non-Original Condition

This includes vehicles that have been modified from the original design, or a vehicle that is missing its VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) plate.

Exhaust System Defective

This includes an incomplete exhaust system, breaks or leaks in the exhaust system, or inaccessible or missing tailpipe(s).

Other Reasons

Other reasons may include a hood that will not release or is held together with anything other than a working latch, gas cap key is missing, or non-functioning side windows (at least one window must roll down).

Remedies

In most of the cases cited above, you must remedy the problem before returning the vehicle for testing. If you have questions about particular vehicle modifications, you may call the State Emissions Technical Center at 303-744-2442 (and press 3) for further information. If you have a "gray market" or kit car, click here for information.

Important Note

If your vehicle is issued a "Vehicle Unable to Test" form, and you are purchasing the vehicle from a dealer  you must return the vehicle to the dealer for repair or repurchase within three business days beginning the day after the date you take possession of the vehicle from the dealer. If you do not return the failed or rejected vehicle within the 3-day time period the dealer will be relieved of any further responsibility to repair or repurchase the vehicle.