What's Involved in an Emissions Test? A Guide for Colorado Springs Drivers

Stanley Douglas • April 11, 2025

For many drivers in Colorado Springs and surrounding El Paso County areas, dealing with vehicle emissions tests can be confusing. Colorado has specific emissions testing requirements, and understanding these regulations is essential for vehicle owners. At Action Automotive Service, we believe informed drivers make better decisions about their vehicles, so here's everything you need to know about emissions testing in our area.

What Is an Emissions Test?

An emissions test measures the pollutants coming from your vehicle's exhaust system to ensure they fall within acceptable limits. These tests help:

Reduce air pollution
Improve air quality in populated areas
Ensure vehicles are running efficiently
Identify vehicles that need repair

Modern vehicles are designed with complex emissions control systems, and when these systems function properly, they significantly reduce harmful pollutants released into our atmosphere.

Colorado Emissions Testing Requirements

In Colorado Springs and El Paso County, emissions testing is required for:

Gasoline vehicles model year 1982 and newer
Diesel vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,000 pounds or less
Vehicles must be tested every two years (during registration renewal)
New vehicles are exempt from testing for the first seven model years

Types of Emissions Tests You Might Encounter

There are several different types of emissions tests that might be performed, depending on your vehicle:

OBD-II Test

The most common modern emissions test is the OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) test, which:

Connects to your vehicle's computer system
Checks if emissions control systems are working correctly
Looks for stored trouble codes related to emissions
Verifies that the "Check Engine" light is functioning properly

This is a quick, non-invasive test that takes just a few minutes to complete.

Tailpipe Test

An older but still sometimes used method involves:

Placing a probe directly into your vehicle's exhaust pipe
Measuring pollutants like hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen oxides (NOx)
Sometimes requiring the vehicle to be run on a dynamometer (a treadmill-like device for cars)

Visual Inspection

Some testing stations also perform:

A check for missing emissions components
Inspection of the gas cap to ensure it seals properly
Visual examination of exhaust components

What Happens During an Emissions Test?

If you're taking your vehicle for an emissions test, here's what to expect:

Preparation: The technician will verify your vehicle information and may check if your "Check Engine" light is on.
Connection: For OBD-II tests, they'll plug a scanning device into your diagnostic port, typically located under the dashboard.
Data Reading: The scanner retrieves information about your emissions systems and any stored fault codes.
Analysis: Results are analyzed to determine if your vehicle passes or fails based on the standards for your specific vehicle year, make, and model.
Documentation: You'll receive documentation showing whether your vehicle passed or failed.

The entire process typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the type of test and how busy the facility is.

Common Reasons Vehicles Fail Emissions Tests

For Colorado Springs residents, here are common reasons vehicles fail emissions tests:

Check Engine Light is on: This is an automatic fail in most testing areas
Faulty oxygen sensors: These measure how efficiently your engine is burning fuel
Bad catalytic converter: This device reduces harmful emissions
Loose or damaged gas cap: Can cause fuel system pressure issues and increase emissions
Rich fuel mixture: When too much fuel is being burned
Exhaust leaks: Allow unfiltered emissions to escape

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for an Emissions Test

If you're planning to have your vehicle tested, these steps can help improve your chances of passing:

Address the Check Engine Light: If it's illuminated, have it diagnosed and repaired at Action Automotive Service before testing.
Get a Tune-Up: Regular maintenance like spark plug replacement and air filter changes can significantly improve emissions performance.
Drive Your Car: Take your vehicle for a 20-minute drive on I-25 or other highways around Colorado Springs before the test to help the catalytic converter reach optimal operating temperature.
Check Your Gas Cap: Ensure it clicks when tightened and has no cracks or damage.
Use Quality Fuel: Fill up with high-quality gas from reputable stations in Colorado Springs.

Where Colorado Springs Residents Can Get Emissions Help

Managing emissions-related issues is essential for both passing your emissions test and maintaining your vehicle's performance and our local air quality.

At Action Automotive Service, our certified technicians are equipped with advanced diagnostic equipment to:

Identify emissions-related problems
Make necessary repairs to ensure your vehicle passes emissions testing
Perform pre-test inspections if you're concerned about your vehicle's emissions status
Help you understand what repairs are truly necessary

Our convenient location at 3335 Fillmore Ridge Heights in Colorado Springs means you don't have to travel far for expert emissions system diagnosis and repair.

Need Help with Emissions or Check Engine Light Issues?

If your Check Engine light is on or you're concerned about your vehicle's emissions system, don't wait until you fail a test. Contact Action Automotive Service today at (719) 633-0008 or schedule an appointment online.

Our team of experienced technicians can quickly diagnose emissions problems, recommend practical solutions, and get your vehicle running cleanly and efficiently. We pride ourselves on honest, transparent service for all Colorado Springs residents – ensuring your vehicle not only passes required tests but also contributes less pollution to our local Colorado environment.

Action Automotive Service works on all domestic and foreign cars, including diesel engines, so no matter what you drive, we have the expertise to keep your emissions system in top condition.

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Why You Should Never Ignore a Fluid Leak Under Your Car

By Stanley Douglas • April 22, 2025

Have you ever walked out to your driveway in Colorado Springs and noticed a mysterious puddle underneath your vehicle? While it might be tempting to hope it's just condensation from your air conditioning system, ignoring fluid leaks can lead to serious—and expensive—consequences. In our Colorado climate, with its extreme temperature fluctuations and challenging driving conditions, even minor leaks can quickly escalate into major problems. The Hidden Dangers of Fluid Leaks Fluid leaks are your vehicle's way of signaling that something needs attention. Each type of leak represents a different system in distress, and addressing them promptly can prevent cascade failures that leave you stranded on Garden of the Gods Road or halfway up Pikes Peak. Engine Oil Leaks Those dark brown or amber puddles under your car might be engine oil, which is your engine's lifeblood. Potential Consequences : Continued driving with low oil levels can cause catastrophic engine failure. In Colorado Springs' high elevation, engines already work harder due to thinner air, making proper lubrication even more critical than at sea level. Cost Comparison : Fixing a minor oil leak might cost $150-300, while a complete engine replacement due to oil starvation can exceed $5,000. That small drip today could become a major expense tomorrow. Local Consideration : Our dramatic temperature swings between day and night can cause rubber seals and gaskets to expand and contract more than in other climates, accelerating the progression of small leaks. Coolant Leaks Bright green, orange, or pink fluid typically indicates a coolant leak from your radiator or hoses. Potential Consequences : Coolant leaks can lead to overheating, which is particularly dangerous when climbing the steep grades around Colorado Springs. Engine overheating can cause warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets, especially at our elevation where cooling systems already work harder. Cost Comparison : Replacing a leaking hose might cost $100-200, while repairing overheating damage often exceeds $1,500. Local Factor : Colorado's combination of hot summer days and significant elevation makes cooling system integrity more critical than in many other regions. A cooling system that performs adequately at sea level might fail when climbing Monument Hill. Transmission Fluid Leaks Red or brown fluid with a slightly sweet smell typically indicates transmission fluid. Potential Consequences : Low transmission fluid leads to increased friction, overheating, and eventually complete transmission failure. The constant elevation changes in and around Colorado Springs mean your transmission shifts more frequently than in flatter regions, making proper fluid levels essential. Cost Comparison : Sealing a transmission leak might cost $200-500, while a full transmission replacement can exceed $4,000. Regional Impact : Colorado's mountain roads put extra strain on transmissions. Climbing to Woodland Park or descending from the Air Force Academy requires proper fluid levels for smooth operation and heat dissipation. Brake Fluid Leaks Clear to slightly amber fluid that feels slippery indicates brake fluid—perhaps the most dangerous leak to ignore. Potential Consequences : Even small brake fluid leaks can lead to brake failure. Given Colorado Springs' mountainous terrain, brake failure could be catastrophic when descending steep grades like those on Old Stage Road or Gold Camp Road. Cost Comparison : Repairing a brake line might cost $150-300, while injuries from an accident due to brake failure can be incalculable. Local Significance : Our region's significant elevation changes mean brakes work overtime compared to flatter areas. Proper brake fluid levels are non-negotiable for safe driving in the Pikes Peak region. Power Steering Fluid Leaks Reddish or light brown fluid that appears after turning your steering wheel sharply indicates power steering fluid. Potential Consequences : Low power steering fluid makes steering difficult, which is particularly problematic on our winding mountain roads and during winter driving conditions. Cost Comparison : Replacing a power steering hose typically costs $150-400, while a complete power steering rack replacement can exceed $1,000. Colorado Springs Factor : Our city's combination of mountain roads and urban driving demands responsive steering. A power steering failure while navigating the switchbacks to Cheyenne Canyon could be dangerous. How to Identify Common Fluid Leaks When you spot a leak in your Colorado Springs driveway, here's how to identify what you're dealing with: Engine Oil : Dark brown to black, slick feeling Coolant : Bright green, orange, or pink, sticky feeling with sweet smell Transmission Fluid : Red or brown with slight sweet smell Brake Fluid : Clear to slightly amber, slippery feeling Power Steering Fluid : Reddish or light brown, thin consistency Windshield Washer Fluid : Blue or purple, watery consistency (not harmful but should be refilled) The Colorado Springs Environmental Factor Beyond the mechanical implications, fluid leaks have environmental consequences in our beautiful region: Automotive fluids can contaminate local waterways, including Fountain Creek and Monument Creek In our semi-arid climate, these chemicals can persist longer in soil Wildlife in our urban-wilderness interface areas can be harmed by exposure to these toxins What to Do If You Spot a Leak If you notice fluid under your car in Colorado Springs, take these steps: Identify the fluid type if possible using color and consistency Check fluid levels in the corresponding reservoir under the hood Look for obvious sources like loose caps or damaged hoses Place cardboard under your vehicle overnight to better assess the color and location of the leak Consider our local driving conditions when assessing urgency (mountain trips require fully functional vehicles) Have it professionally inspected rather than hoping it will resolve itself Why Prompt Professional Attention Matters In Colorado Springs, prompt attention to fluid leaks is particularly important because: Our elevation and climate accelerate the consequences of fluid loss Temperature fluctuations can cause small leaks to worsen rapidly Remote mountain areas around our city mean breakdowns can leave you far from help Winter driving conditions make fully functioning vehicles essential for safety Our UV intensity at elevation can accelerate the degradation of hoses and seals Need Help with a Fluid Leak? At Action Automotive Service, we understand how Colorado Springs' unique environment affects your vehicle's systems. Our experienced technicians can quickly identify the source of any fluid leak, recommend the appropriate repairs, and help prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Don't risk your safety or expensive repairs by ignoring fluid leaks. Contact us today at (719) 633-0008 or visit our convenient location at 3335 Fillmore Ridge Heights for prompt, professional service. Our team will ensure your vehicle remains reliable for daily commutes and weekend adventures throughout the Pikes Peak region .