Subaru Forester: State emission testing (U.S. only)

At state inspection time, remember to tell your inspection or service station in advance not to place your SUBARU AWD vehicle on a two-wheel dynamometer.

Otherwise, serious transmission damage will result.

Some states have started using dynamometers in their state inspection programs in order to meet their obligation under federal law to implement stricter vehicle emission standards to reduce air pollution from vehicles. A dynamometer is a treadmill or roller-like testing device that allows your vehicle’s wheels to turn while the vehicle remains in one place. Depending on the severity of a state’s air pollution problems, the states must adopt either a “basic” or “enhanced” vehicle emission inspection test. Normally, a portion of the basic emission test consists of an emission inspector inserting an analyzer probe into the exhaust pipe of an idling vehicle for a short period of time. States with more severe air pollution problems are required to adopt an enhanced vehicle emission test. This test simulates actual driving conditions on a dynamometer and permits more accurate measurement of tailpipe emitted pollution than the basic emission test.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and states using two-wheel dynamometers in their emission testing programs have EXEMPTED SUBARU AWD vehicles from the portion of the testing program that involves a two-wheel dynamometer.

There are some states that use four-wheel dynamometers in their testing programs.

When properly used, that equipment will not damage a SUBARU AWD vehicle.

Under no circumstances should the rear wheels be jacked off the ground, nor should the driveshaft be disconnected for state emission testing.

Testing of an All-Wheel Drive vehicle must NEVER be performed on a single two-wheel dynamometer. Attempting to do so will result in uncontrolled vehicle movement and may cause an accident or injuries to persons nearby.

Resultant vehicle damage due to improper testing is not covered under the SUBARU Limited Warranty and is the responsibility of the state inspection program or its contractors or licensees.

The EPA has issued regulations for inspecting the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system as part of the state emissions inspection. The OBD system is designed to detect engine and transmission problems that might cause vehicle emissions to exceed allowable limits.

These inspections apply to all 1996 model year and newer passenger cars and light trucks. Over 30 states plus the District of Columbia have implemented the OBD system inspection.

- The inspection of the OBD system consists of a visual operational check of the “CHECK ENGINE” warning light/malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and an examination of the OBD system with an electronic scan tool while the engine is running.

- A vehicle passes the OBD system inspection if proper illumination of the “CHECK ENGINE” warning light/MIL is observed, there are no stored diagnostic trouble codes, and the OBD system readiness monitors are complete.

- A vehicle fails the OBD inspection if the “CHECK ENGINE” warning light/MIL is not properly operating or there are one or more diagnostic trouble codes stored in the vehicle’s computer with the “CHECK ENGINE” warning light/MIL illuminated.

- A state emission inspection may reject (not pass or fail) a vehicle if the number of OBD system readiness monitors “Not Ready” is greater than one. Under this condition, the vehicle operator should be instructed to drive his/her vehicle for a few days to set the monitors and return for an emission re-inspection.

- Owners of rejected or failing vehicles should contact their SUBARU Dealer for service.

Preparing to drive

You should perform the following checks and adjustments every day before you start driving.

1. Check that all windows, mirrors, and lights are clean and unobstructed.

2. Check the appearance and condition of the tires. Also check tires for proper inflation.

3. Look under the vehicle for any sign of leaks.

4. Check that the hood and rear gate are fully closed.

5. Check the adjustment of the seat.

6. Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors.

7. Fasten your seatbelt. Check that your passengers have fastened their seatbelts.

8. Check the operation of the warning and indicator lights when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position.

9. Check the gauges, indicator and warning lights after starting the engine.

NOTE
Engine oil, engine coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid and other fluid levels should be checked daily, weekly or at fuel stops.

Fuel

Starting the engine