What is an Emissions Test?

Automotive emissions testing, AKA “smog testing” is an important part of vehicle maintenance & repairs in states where it is required, such as here in New Jersey. But what is an emissions test, exactly? How much will it cost you to have done? Is an emissions test different from a New Jersey inspection? The DCH Ford of Eatontown service team is here to answer all of these questions and more!

U.S. States That Require Emissions Testing

Over 30 states in the U.S. now require emissions testing to some degree for vehicles registered therein. Here is a list of the states where you must have your emissions tested: 

New Jersey Emissions Test & Inspection Requirements

New Jersey inspection is required to keep your vehicle operable on the roads of Eatontown and Wall Township. Here’s the skinny, per the state of New Jersey for most “basic (non-commercial) vehicles”:

• “Vehicles need to be inspected once every two years in New Jersey with the exception of new vehicles. New vehicles need a five-year inspection. To determine when you vehicle is due for inspection, check the inspection sticker on your windshield…You may complete your inspection up to two months before the expiration date. See njinspections.com homepage to get your auto inspected.”

Vehicles Exempt From New Jersey Inspection

Certain vehicles are exempt from NJ safety and emissions inspections. These include but are not limited to:

• Historic & Collector vehicles
• Gasoline powered vehicles registered passenger, model year 1995 & older with a GVWR 8,500 pounds or less.
• Gasoline powered vehicles registered passenger, model year 2007 & older with a GVWR 8,501 to 14,000 pounds.
• Gasoline powered vehicles registered passenger, model year 2013 & older with a GVWR 14,001 pounds or more.
• Historic motor vehicles
• Approved Collector Vehicles which are less than 25 years old
• 100% Electric vehicles
• Motorcycles
• Motorized bicycles
• Farm tractors and traction equipment
• Farm machinery and implements
• Fire trucks having a GVWR of more than 8,500 pounds
• In-transit construction equipment
• All Diesel-fueled motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) 8,501 pounds to 17,999 that are plated commercial. The owner or lessee is required to inspected these vehicles.
• All diesel powered vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) 8,501 to 17,999 that are plated passenger, not for profit, governmental, commuter van, farmer or farm truck except buses
• All diesel powered vehicles model year 1996 and older that are plated passenger, not for profit, governmental, commuter van, farmer or farm truck except buses
• Omnibuses which are subject to inspection by the Commission‘s Commercial Bus Inspection and Investigation Unit
• School buses which are subject to inspection by the Commission‘s School Bus Inspection Unit
• Tactical military vehicles operated on Federal installations within this State

See the “Vehicles Exempt from Inspection” page on the official site of the state of New Jersey for additional information.

How Long Does an Emissions Test Take?

Usually, emissions tests take roughly 15 to 30 minutes near Long Branch. However, there are no federal requirements for emissions tests. With that having been said, it is up to each state and municipality to decide what goes into emissions testing, and that can make emissions testing times vary from state to state. 

How Much is an Emissions Test? 

The price of emissions test in New Jersey is free-of-charge, IFyou go to a NJ MVC (Motor Vehicle Commission) location near Red Bank and Tinton Falls. If you go to a private shop that is licensed to do state inspections, you may be charged $65. At DCH Ford of Eatontown we strive to offer affordable automotive service of all kinds!

Schedule an Emissions Test at DCH Ford of Eatontown 

Ready to get your vehicle inspected in New Jersey for safety, emissions, or both? Not sure if you require an emissions inspection yet? Call 732-852-5898 for more information or simply schedule an appointment online now! Don’t forget to check out our service specials for any applicable savings.