Emission - Inspection/Maintenance Program Overview

Models: All
Section: General Information
Classification: GI94-004
Bulletin No.: NTB94-077
Date: August 4, 1994

ENHANCED EMISSION INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

SERVICE INFORMATION

You may have already heard about the forthcoming enhanced inspection/maintenance (I/M) program which is being implemented in targeted locations of the country beginning in January 1995 (July 1994 in Maine). The purpose of this advisory is to provide a general overview of the I/M requirements, and the potential impact upon dealers.








In response to the 1990 Clean Air Act amendments, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated additional reductions in air pollution. To accomplish these reductions, the EPA has expanded their list of geographical areas that require a basic I/M test. and have added a new "enhanced" test in approximately 30 states. The EPA's list of areas affected by both the basic and enhanced testing is attached, however, dealers should check with their local environmental agency to determine if your area is affected by the enhanced I/M program.

The enhanced I/M program, also known as I/M 240, utilizes a computer driven dynamometer to test exhaust and evaporative emissions during a 240 second dynamic driving cycle. The EPA has suggested the use of centralized, state-owned/authorized, inspection-only centers. if the vehicle fails the test, the customer will be provided with data that indicates second-by-second emission levels and purge system operations. The customer may then take the vehicle to a repair facility of their choice to correct the out-of-line condition(s) identified by the test.

The EPA has established a $450 guideline limit for customer pay corrective repairs, although dealers are again encouraged to contact their local environmental agency for specific details and guidelines (this limit does not apply to any repairs covered under warranty). Additionally, it is important to note that the EPA intends to monitor program performance (i.e. - repair quality) in the enhanced I/M areas. This information, which will be readily available to the general public, is expected to list such things as repair facility pass/fail scores, repair expense, and repeat repairs.

Nissan is currently evaluating specialized diagnostic procedures and diagnostic equipment to support the accurate repair of failures identified through the enhanced I/M tests.

Until further notice, Nissan strongly advises dealers against purchasing any emissions-related equipment for the purposes of diagnosing enhanced I/M test failures, unless they are fully familiar with the program in their area.

Technical information regarding Nissan's diagnostic procedures and/or recommended equipment will be provided to you in the near future.