How Often Do You Need to Get an Emissions Check for Your Car?

If you recently purchased a car or moved to a new state, it is a good idea to know the car emissions requirements for testing and inspections. If you bought your car from a Kia dealer, your local dealership will be able to provide you with all this information. Does your vehicle need an emissions test? When should get one? Where can you get an emissions test? Here’s a look at emissions testing to help you understand it better.

Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program

In 14 counties in Maryland, all registered vehicles, except those exempt from the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP), are required to undergo scheduled emissions checks every two years. You will know when your vehicle needs an emission inspection because you will be notified 11 weeks in advance by email or 6-8 weeks in advance by US mail.

Should I Get an Emissions Test?

Included Maryland Counties

The counties included in Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program are:

• Anne Arundel County
• Baltimore City
• Baltimore County
• Calvert County
• Carroll County
• Cecil County
• Charles County
• Frederick County
• Harford County
• Howard County
• Montgomery County
• Prince George’s County
• Queen Anne’s County
• Washington County

What Is a Car Emissions Check?

Emissions tests check the operation of the vehicle’s computer and exhaust to ensure that your vehicle is not emitting higher levels of pollutants than what is allowed by law. In Maryland, the three main emissions tests include the gas tank lid, the onboard computer, and the emissions released by the tail pipe.

New and Used Vehicles

New vehicles registered in one of the 14 counties will be scheduled for testing at least 36 months from the date of registration. Buyers of used cars will receive a notification for inspection within three months of changing the name on the title.

Inspection Stations

VEIP scheduled emissions inspections can be taken at various inspection stations found throughout Maryland. You can also take your unregistered vehicle to the inspection stations for a voluntary inspection, although the data will not be entered into the VEIP database.

Exempt Vehicles

Are there vehicles that are exempt from emissions tests? There are a number of vehicles that do not need to pass a regularly scheduled test. The list is rather long but includes diesel-only powered vehicles, motorcycles, and all-electric vehicles.

Ask Your Maryland Kia Dealer

Have you recently purchased a car? Are you thinking of buying a new vehicle? Do you have further emissions test questions? If you have questions about testing requirements or want to make sure your car meets the emissions standards for your area, you can speak to your local Kia-certified dealership for more information.

Whether you need information on an emission check or even if you are looking to buy a new Kia or used vehicle, you can rely on us as your local Kia dealer in the area. Get in touch with DARCARS Kia of Frederick now for all the help you require. We would be happy to assist and get you the information and service you need!

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