Emission Control System Inspection & Repair Costs
Basic Emissions System Inspection
Initial diagnostic scan and visual inspection
Labor: 1 hour
Typical Cost: $125
Oxygen Sensor Replacement
Includes diagnosis, parts, and labor
Labor: 1-2 hours
Parts: $50-200 per sensor
Typical Cost: $175-450
Catalytic Converter Inspection & Replacement
Includes diagnosis, parts, and labor
Labor: 2-3 hours
Parts: $300-1200
Typical Cost: $550-1575
EGR Valve Service
Includes cleaning or replacement
Labor: 1-2 hours
Parts (if needed): $150-300
Typical Cost: $275-550
EVAP System Diagnosis & Repair
Includes smoke test and basic repairs
Labor: 1-3 hours
Parts (if needed): $50-300
Typical Cost: $175-675
PCV Valve Replacement
Includes diagnosis and replacement
Labor: 0.5-1 hour
Parts: $10-50
Typical Cost: $72-175
Mass Air Flow Sensor Service
Includes cleaning or replacement
Labor: 1 hour
Parts (if needed): $150-400
Typical Cost: $275-525
Note: Prices may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Additional repairs may be necessary based on inspection findings. All estimates include our standard labor rate of $125/hour.
Common Emission Control System Inspection and Repair Procedures
Catalytic Converter Inspection & Repair
Inspection Steps:
- Visual inspection for physical damage
- Check for rattling sounds indicating internal damage
- Perform back-pressure test
- Use temperature gun to check for proper operation
Repair Procedure:
- Remove damaged catalytic converter
- Inspect surrounding oxygen sensors
- Install new OEM or approved aftermarket converter
- Verify proper installation and check for leaks
- Reset engine computer if necessary
EGR System Inspection & Repair
Inspection Steps:
- Check for proper valve operation
- Inspect for carbon buildup
- Test EGR valve vacuum operation
- Scan for related trouble codes
Repair Procedure:
- Remove EGR valve
- Clean or replace valve as needed
- Clean EGR passages and ports
- Install new gaskets
- Verify proper operation with scanner
PCV System Inspection & Repair
Inspection Steps:
- Check PCV valve operation
- Inspect hoses for cracks or damage
- Look for oil contamination
- Test valve rattle
Repair Procedure:
- Remove PCV valve and hoses
- Clean PCV system passages
- Replace valve and damaged hoses
- Verify proper operation
- Check engine oil level
EVAP System Inspection & Repair
Inspection Steps:
- Perform smoke test for leaks
- Check purge valve operation
- Inspect fuel cap seal
- Test charcoal canister
Repair Procedure:
- Identify leak source using smoke machine
- Replace damaged components (hoses, valves, etc.)
- Clean or replace charcoal canister if necessary
- Verify system integrity with pressure test
- Clear trouble codes and verify repair
Air Injection System Inspection & Repair
Inspection Steps:
- Check air pump operation
- Inspect check valves
- Test electrical connections
- Look for vacuum leaks
Repair Procedure:
- Test air pump operation
- Replace failed components
- Repair vacuum leaks
- Check electrical connections
- Verify proper system operation
Note: These procedures may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Always consult manufacturer specifications for detailed repair instructions.
Understanding Emission Control System Inspections
An Emission Control System Inspection is a comprehensive examination of your vehicle's components that control and reduce harmful exhaust emissions. Here's a breakdown of the main systems that are typically inspected:
Catalytic ConverterThe catalytic converter is a critical component that converts harmful pollutants into less harmful emissions before they leave your vehicle's exhaust system. During inspection, technicians check for damage, proper function, and conversion efficiency.
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) SystemThe EGR system reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by recirculating a portion of exhaust gases back into the engine's combustion chambers. Inspection includes checking for clogs, proper valve operation, and system functionality.
Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) SystemThe PCV system prevents crankcase vapors from entering the atmosphere by redirecting them back into the engine's combustion process. Technicians inspect the PCV valve, hoses, and connections for proper operation.
Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP)The EVAP system prevents fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere by storing and recycling them. Inspection includes checking for leaks in the fuel tank, fuel cap, charcoal canister, and associated hoses.
Air Injection SystemThis system pumps fresh air into the exhaust stream to help complete the combustion process and reduce emissions. Technicians check the air pump, valves, and connections for proper operation.
Oxygen SensorsOxygen sensors monitor the air-fuel mixture and help the engine computer optimize combustion efficiency. During inspection, technicians verify sensor operation and response times.
Benefits of Regular Emission System Inspections:
- Ensures your vehicle meets environmental regulations
- Improves fuel efficiency
- Helps maintain engine performance
- Prevents costly repairs by catching issues early
- Reduces your vehicle's environmental impact
Regular emission system inspections are not only important for environmental compliance but also crucial for maintaining your vehicle's performance and efficiency.
Common Failure Symptoms of Emission Control System Components
Common Emission Control System Issues & Maintenance Guide
Catalytic Converter
Signs of Failure:
- Check Engine Light illumination
- Failed emissions test
- Rotten egg smell from exhaust
- Decreased engine performance
- Poor fuel economy
Service Schedule: No regular maintenance required, but typically lasts 10+ years under normal conditions.
EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) System
Signs of Failure:
- Rough idle or stalling
- Knocking sounds during acceleration
- Check Engine Light activation
- Failed emissions test
Service Schedule: Inspection every 50,000 miles or if symptoms occur. Clean or replace as needed.
PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) System
Signs of Failure:
- Oil leaks
- Increased oil consumption
- Rough idle
- Oil in air filter
Service Schedule: PCV valve replacement every 20,000-50,000 miles, depending on vehicle manufacturer.
EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control) System
Signs of Failure:
- Check Engine Light illumination
- Fuel odor
- Failed emissions test
- Poor fuel economy
Service Schedule: Inspection during routine maintenance. Replace charcoal canister and hoses as needed.
Air Injection System
Signs of Failure:
- Check Engine Light activation
- Increased exhaust emissions
- Unusual noise from engine compartment
Service Schedule: Inspect during routine maintenance. No specific replacement interval unless failure occurs.
O2 (Oxygen) Sensors
Signs of Failure:
- Check Engine Light illumination
- Poor fuel economy
- Rough idle
- Failed emissions test
Service Schedule: Replacement typically needed every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules and recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
