The emission control system does more than reduce pollution — it actively boosts a car’s performance. As we move into a world with stricter environmental standards and ever-evolving technology, a potential malfunction in these systems can be crippling.
Addressing emission control system failures faster and more accurately is crucial for improving vehicle performance and emissions compliance. In this article, we offer an overview of some advanced diagnostic methods that not only contribute to better air quality but also enhance car and truck safety for everyday consumers.
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Emission control systems are an integral component of the combustion process.
Apart from regulating the harmful gases released by a vehicle — including the dreaded nitrous oxide and carbon monoxide — they reduce waste, ensure fuel efficiency, and enhance the longevity of the engines.
Given the wide range of applications, there are several devices and components that make up an emission control system. Some prominent examples include:
Since the 1970s, catalytic converters have converted pollutants from the exhaust into less harmful gases. This large component is located on the underside of the car. It usually contains an insulated chamber lined with metals like platinum and palladium. These metals act as catalysts to convert more harmful gases into water vapor, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen.
The oxygen sensor on the exhaust pipe is a crucial part of the emissions control system. It relays information about the car’s air-fuel ratio to the engine control module, making the engine run efficiently and producing fewer harmful gasses.
As its name suggests, the exhaust gas recirculation valve directs some amount of gases back into the cylinder head. These gases then dilute the air-fuel mixture, bring down the temperature of the combustion chamber, and restrict the production of polluting gases.
The positive crankcase ventilation system combines gases from the crankshaft with ventilating air. It then returns these gases to the combustion chamber, where they are burned instead of released. PCV systems also extend oil life and reduce sludge.
EVAP systems prevent fumes from evaporating from the fuel tank into the atmosphere. The vapors are instead stored in a charcoal canister, a chamber that can hold 35% of its own weight. When the car is running, the valve loosens, allowing the fumes to enter the engine, where they are burned.
Most modern cars are equipped with multiple emission control measures. However, despite being highly advanced systems, they are not immune to issues. Any of these devices, sensors, or components can develop faults that are crucial to fix in their early stages.
Some symptoms to look out for include:
Several things could go wrong with an emission control system — from bad sensors to corroded wiring, worn-out valves, and more. Finding these issues at an early stage can help prevent serious issues from developing later, and keep drivers safe.
The most traditional diagnostics method is a thorough visual inspection. This includes checking for signs of wear and tear, leaks, debris, or corrosion in any of the major components. Furthermore, basic performance tests can help identify potential issues.
With that said, modern technology has offered us much faster and more reliable ways of diagnosing issues. Some of these advanced diagnostics methods include:
Since the late 1990s, most cars come fitted with OBD II diagnostics systems, which can be scanned to detect faults. Each malfunction is accompanied by a corresponding code that indicates which specific component is faulty.
An often underutilized aspect of these scanners in this regard is the Mode $06.
Originally, this mode was not meant for technicians, and it isn’t found on many older and entry-level scan tools. Recently, however, it has emerged as an advanced diagnostic tool for discovering a host of emission control system faults, including issues with the EVAP and EGR systems or the catalytic converter.
Many mechanics can also access manufacturer-created scanners and software that read more uncommon fault codes. These tools allow repair shops to access the manufacturer’s database and servers directly, unlocking several diagnostic benefits.
Factory scanners are more descriptive and specific in their diagnosis and allow technicians to upgrade a car’s firmware, or restore settings.
Moreover, technicians are also advised to regularly check the relevant manufacturer’s technical service bulletins to see if any recorded issues match the symptoms. Studies suggest 30% of vehicles can be repaired with the information in these documents.
These advanced instruments allow mechanics to visualize electric signals and discover issues in the emission control system that may go undetected by a scanner.
This helps test the performance of various sensors, including oxygen sensors and fuel injectors, which are both crucial to the functioning of an emission control system.
Unlike traditional tools, oscilloscopes offer a comprehensive view of malfunctioning components, helping mechanics get to the root of a problem faster and more accurately.
A novel approach to diagnosing leaks, smoke machines are increasingly being used to detect emissions problems. Mechanics use the machine to introduce smoke into a particular component and watch the smoke escape to locate potential leaks. Smoke machines are exceptionally common in detecting EVAP leaks.
In the future, as cars become more interconnected and technology advances, more cutting-edge diagnostic methods are bound to follow. For example, technicians can leverage an automotive digital twin to simulate and diagnose emission control system failures in real-time.
As they say, prevention is better than cure — and nowhere does this hold more true than in the automotive sector.
To prevent emission control failures, it’s crucial that professionals use advanced tools to monitor engine performance and maintain components responsible for keeping emissions low. This could include conducting routine checks on catalytic converters, filters, plugs, hoses, caps, sensors, and more.
Advanced mechanic shop management software can improve the efficiency of these inspections and offer a wealth of useful data, such as repair guides or complex wiring diagrams to enhance the diagnostics process.
Customers, on their part, should send their vehicles in for regular inspections, use only manufacturer-recommended parts, and familiarize themselves with certain warning signs that their car might be in trouble.
It’s only when all these aspects work together that we can ensure vehicles maintain the emission levels expected by modern standards and regulations.
– Steven Meyers writes on consumer automotive topics and industry trends, specializing in vehicle technology and business technology innovations for manufacturers and mechanics. With a 20-year career in the industry, his articles provide valuable insights for professionals and enthusiasts navigating the ever-evolving world of cars and automotive technology.
