Mobile Source Basics

There are many things you can do to reduce the pollution from your motor vehicle. For instance, it is important to keep your vehicle in good working order. Consider the following to reduce pollution:

Have your car serviced regularly
Make sure tires are inflated to recommended pressures
Change oil and filter regularly
Replace air filter regularly
Keep belts and hoses in good condition; replace as needed
Check oil and coolant levels regularly; add fluids as needed

MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTIES ON EMISSION DEVICES

Car and truck manufacturers are required to certify that their designs have emission control devices to reduce tailpipe emissions. These emission controls have a manufacturers' warranty on them. For example, the catalytic converter is probably the best known emission control device. For 1995 and newer light-duty vehicles the catalytic converter, electronic emissions control unit, and onboard emissions diagnostic device are covered for eight years or 80,000 miles. All other emission control devices are covered for two years or 24,000 miles.

TAMPERING WITH A VEHICLE

The Clean Air Act section 203(a)(3), 42 USC §7522 , contains a prohibition against tampering. Tampering is defined as removing, bypassing, disconnecting, or damaging any emission control device or having someone do it for you. You or your auto mechanic can be penalized as much as $2,500 for each violation.

IMPORTING A VEHICLE

EPA also provides regulations on the importing of a vehicle to ensure that tailpipe emissions are not violated and that the vehicle has not been tampered with. Several other federal agencies also have requirements. For more information, see the following web sites...

or call EPA's Imports Hot Line at (734) 214-4100 or fax-back information system at (202) 564-9660.

Mobile Source Basics

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