read! emisions laws and standards
12-09-2008, 05:27 PM
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Year: 1991
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
read! emisions laws and standards
this thread will be for people who wanna know the facts about wut they can and can not do, i will put an assortment of links up so theres no fighting on wut can and can not be done
Emissions Laws & Regulations – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB)?
The EPA is a federal governmental agency that works to develop and enforce regulations that implement environmental laws enacted by Congress. CARB is a California governmental agency that promotes and protects public health, welfare and ecological resources through the reduction of air pollutants.
What agency establishes the laws that affect the emissions controls on my vehicle?
The State of California has long been recognized as one of the major air pollution problem areas in the United States. CARB was established in part to study this problem and implement changes to reduce air pollution. CARB has been leading the nation in implementation of strict emissions requirements for motor vehicles through the use of emission control devices and biannual motor vehicle smog-check program. Vehicles that are labeled as "California Emissions Equipped Vehicles" vehicles meet the emissions requirement of CARB for that particular model year.
The EPA establishes the pollution laws and regulations for states other than California. Vehicles that are labeled as "Federal" emission equipped vehicles meet the emissions requirement of the EPA for that particular model year.
Have other states adopted the California emissions laws?
In recent years, other states have suffered similar air pollution problems similar to those that faced California. Instead of these states enacting their own set of emissions laws, the federal government offered the California laws as an alternative. Instead of having 50 different sets of emissions laws, states must choose between either the California or Federal regulations.
At the present time there are several states that have enacted the California laws (i.e. Mass., Maine, New York, and Vermont) and new vehicles are sold as "California Emissions Equipped Vehicles". You can easily determine the emissions status of your car by referring to the emissions decal that is placed under the hood of your car.
Is my vehicle required to be submitted to a tailpipe emissions "smog-check?
This depends on the state that you reside in and the local requirements. For example in California, smog-checks are required in populated areas, but not in selected rural areas. With laws and regulations changing at an increasing rate, it is very difficult for the aftermarket to keep ahead of these changes. We suggest you contact your local or state agencies for information regarding your emissions laws.
Can I legally replace an emissions sensitive part on my car with an aftermarket product?
In the state of California, it is not legal to replace an emissions sensitive device without the replacement part having an exemption from CARB. Although replacing a particular device might have no apparent effect on the emissions, and the car might even pass a tail pipe "smog-check", the replacement part is still not considered emissions legal. In many cases, the mandatory visual inspection of the vehicle prior to an official state required smog-check may result in immediate failure of the test if a non-exempt part is identified.
A part that has been issued a CARB exemption has been subjected to strict laboratory testing as required by CARB in order to demonstrate that the replacement part will not increase emissions. (These tests are NOT the same as the "smog check" test and often require "cold start" testing procedures in order to test the efficiency of the emissions system during the initial seconds of the start-up cycle.) A part that has successfully passed these tests will be appointed an Executive Order number and will be listed on the CARB website for reference. Every Executive Order part or modification has an assigned number that can be verified by Smog Check stations, BAR Referee stations, or by the ARB. This number should be displayed on or near the emissions sensitive part for reference by a smog check technician.
For a database listing of current exempt parts, visit:
http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/aftermkt/devices/amquery.php
What does it mean when an aftermarket product is advertised as "CARB Exempt" or "50 State Legal"?
Although a part may be advertised as "50 State Legal", this may be more of a marketing statement than reality. Unless an emissions sensitive part has been issued an Executive Order number by CARB, or an EPA exemption, FOR THAT SPECIFIC VEHICLE OR ENGINE CLASSIFICATION, the part is NOT legal for street use. Period, end of statement! If you must have a CARB exempt component for your vehicle, obtain the exemption number from the manufacturer prior to your purchase and verify the application status at the CARB link above.
Parts that are typically appointed CARB exemptions include: headers, air filter/intakes, turbo kits, and supercharger kits. Parts that are typically not eligible for a CARB exemption include, but are not limited to: many OBD II replacement catalytic converters (as of 2008, the number of CARB exempted direct replacement 1996 and later OBD II catalytic converters is limited), downpipes or headers that remove or relocate a catalytic converter, and performance carburetor kits. Contact the manufacturer of a product that you are considering purchasing for details regarding that specific component.
An exhaust system that is installed AFTER the catalytic converter is considered a "cat-back" system and is considered emissions legal. (Sound level restrictions may be an issue in your state, check with the exhaust manufacturer or you local authorities for more information.)
Can I replace the OEM catalytic converter on my car with a "high flow" catalytic converter?
The catalytic converter plays a major role in the emissions reduction of a motor vehicle. The vehicle manufacturer has matched a specific catalytic converter to the vehicle to minimize emissions output. Both CARB and the EPA do not allow the replacement of a catalytic converter with non-exempt "high flow" performance replacement unit. In fact, it is technically not legal to even replace a converter unless it has been proven by technician to have failed, and then it can only be replaced with an exempt OEM equivalent unit. (However, enforcement of this requirement is almost non-existent and is the primary loop-hole that allows the usage of so-called "high flow" catalytic converters. Many of these units are sold with the disclaimer as being a "race" component and are not intended for street use.) Due to the hundreds of vehicle models produced over the years, it is virtually impossible to determine by glancing under a car whether the converter is the original unit, a legal OEM replacement, or a non-legal aftermarket "high flow" performance unit. Unless CARB or the EPA decide to take more aggressive enforcement action, the installation and usage of these non-exempt "high flow" catalytic converters will likely continue.
Can I remove my stock exhaust manifold/catalytic converter and replace them with a header/catalytic converter combination on my RX-7?
Not legally. As mentioned above, CARB or the EPA does not allow relocation of any of the stock catalytic converters. They require that all original catalytic converters be in their original positions, and replacement of multiple catalytic converters with a single non-exempt "high flow" performance unit is not allowed.
Although using a header (or downpipe) and catalytic converter combination might pass a tailpipe test at a California tailpipe emissions test, it would NOT pass the visual inspection portion of the test. Since the engine configuration of the rotary engine in the RX-7 is rather unique, it is possible that some test station technicians may not be familiar with the this layout, and they may not even notice that a header (or downpipe) and/or replacement catalytic converter has been installed.
Why are some aftermarket products are labeled with the following phrase, "Legal in California only for racing vehicles, which may never be used upon a highway."?
Since Racing Beat is located in Anaheim, CA, we are under the jurisdiction of the California Air Resources Board. Emissions sensitive parts that are offered for sale in California that have not received a CARB exemption must be sold as "racing" parts, which cannot be used upon a public highway. We include this statement with specific product descriptions to inform our customers of the emissions status of that particular product.
Will Racing Beat obtain a CARB exemption for every emission sensitive part that is offered?
No, many of the parts that we offer are intended for racing applications only and it is not possible to obtain an exemption. Selected parts for street applications (i.e. intake kits, street headers, etc…) may be submitted for testing.
Will the addition of an aftermarket part to my car void my Mazda warranty?
This is a question that can only be answered by your local Mazda dealer. We have worked with many Mazda dealers that are "aftermarket friendly" and others that take a hard-line stance towards non-Mazdaspeed aftermarket parts. If your new car warranty is of concern, we suggest you contact your local servicing dealer and speak with their service manager regarding their stance towards an aftermarket part that you are considering.
The aftermarket has been battling this issue for many years. Many products are well-designed and should not adversely affect the performance, drivability, or reliability of a vehicle, but many poorly designed and manufactured parts may indeed have an adverse affect. It is hoped that a "cause and affect" relationship would exist when making a warranty claim determination. For example, the installation of an aftermarket muffler should not have an impact on a warranty claim for trouble with the windshield wipers! However, a broken exhaust hanger or leaking gasket might point to the aftermarket muffler as the source of the trouble.
Do not rely on advertising claims made by a company that states that their part will not impact a warranty - how would they possibly know how your local dealer will address YOUR warranty claim?
Another important consideration is to check your new car warranty for specific exclusions that might apply to your model. For example, for many years Mazda has expressly prohibited the usage of synthetic oil in the rotary engine. If the warranty expressly prohibits the installation or use of a specific product, consider yourself warned and proceed at your own risk!
Important Note: Emission laws vary from state-to-state and are constantly changing. We suggest you contact your local and state authorities for laws and requirements for your specific application. Use this guide as reference only.
this is a link if you have 1995 or newer car, if it doesn't pass, basically you can get the product replaced by a dealer, very cheap.
http://www.epa.gov/oms/consumer/warr95fs.txt
epa.gov is where you should go with questions.
Emissions Laws & Regulations – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB)?
The EPA is a federal governmental agency that works to develop and enforce regulations that implement environmental laws enacted by Congress. CARB is a California governmental agency that promotes and protects public health, welfare and ecological resources through the reduction of air pollutants.
What agency establishes the laws that affect the emissions controls on my vehicle?
The State of California has long been recognized as one of the major air pollution problem areas in the United States. CARB was established in part to study this problem and implement changes to reduce air pollution. CARB has been leading the nation in implementation of strict emissions requirements for motor vehicles through the use of emission control devices and biannual motor vehicle smog-check program. Vehicles that are labeled as "California Emissions Equipped Vehicles" vehicles meet the emissions requirement of CARB for that particular model year.
The EPA establishes the pollution laws and regulations for states other than California. Vehicles that are labeled as "Federal" emission equipped vehicles meet the emissions requirement of the EPA for that particular model year.
Have other states adopted the California emissions laws?
In recent years, other states have suffered similar air pollution problems similar to those that faced California. Instead of these states enacting their own set of emissions laws, the federal government offered the California laws as an alternative. Instead of having 50 different sets of emissions laws, states must choose between either the California or Federal regulations.
At the present time there are several states that have enacted the California laws (i.e. Mass., Maine, New York, and Vermont) and new vehicles are sold as "California Emissions Equipped Vehicles". You can easily determine the emissions status of your car by referring to the emissions decal that is placed under the hood of your car.
Is my vehicle required to be submitted to a tailpipe emissions "smog-check?
This depends on the state that you reside in and the local requirements. For example in California, smog-checks are required in populated areas, but not in selected rural areas. With laws and regulations changing at an increasing rate, it is very difficult for the aftermarket to keep ahead of these changes. We suggest you contact your local or state agencies for information regarding your emissions laws.
Can I legally replace an emissions sensitive part on my car with an aftermarket product?
In the state of California, it is not legal to replace an emissions sensitive device without the replacement part having an exemption from CARB. Although replacing a particular device might have no apparent effect on the emissions, and the car might even pass a tail pipe "smog-check", the replacement part is still not considered emissions legal. In many cases, the mandatory visual inspection of the vehicle prior to an official state required smog-check may result in immediate failure of the test if a non-exempt part is identified.
A part that has been issued a CARB exemption has been subjected to strict laboratory testing as required by CARB in order to demonstrate that the replacement part will not increase emissions. (These tests are NOT the same as the "smog check" test and often require "cold start" testing procedures in order to test the efficiency of the emissions system during the initial seconds of the start-up cycle.) A part that has successfully passed these tests will be appointed an Executive Order number and will be listed on the CARB website for reference. Every Executive Order part or modification has an assigned number that can be verified by Smog Check stations, BAR Referee stations, or by the ARB. This number should be displayed on or near the emissions sensitive part for reference by a smog check technician.
For a database listing of current exempt parts, visit:
http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/aftermkt/devices/amquery.php
What does it mean when an aftermarket product is advertised as "CARB Exempt" or "50 State Legal"?
Although a part may be advertised as "50 State Legal", this may be more of a marketing statement than reality. Unless an emissions sensitive part has been issued an Executive Order number by CARB, or an EPA exemption, FOR THAT SPECIFIC VEHICLE OR ENGINE CLASSIFICATION, the part is NOT legal for street use. Period, end of statement! If you must have a CARB exempt component for your vehicle, obtain the exemption number from the manufacturer prior to your purchase and verify the application status at the CARB link above.
Parts that are typically appointed CARB exemptions include: headers, air filter/intakes, turbo kits, and supercharger kits. Parts that are typically not eligible for a CARB exemption include, but are not limited to: many OBD II replacement catalytic converters (as of 2008, the number of CARB exempted direct replacement 1996 and later OBD II catalytic converters is limited), downpipes or headers that remove or relocate a catalytic converter, and performance carburetor kits. Contact the manufacturer of a product that you are considering purchasing for details regarding that specific component.
An exhaust system that is installed AFTER the catalytic converter is considered a "cat-back" system and is considered emissions legal. (Sound level restrictions may be an issue in your state, check with the exhaust manufacturer or you local authorities for more information.)
Can I replace the OEM catalytic converter on my car with a "high flow" catalytic converter?
The catalytic converter plays a major role in the emissions reduction of a motor vehicle. The vehicle manufacturer has matched a specific catalytic converter to the vehicle to minimize emissions output. Both CARB and the EPA do not allow the replacement of a catalytic converter with non-exempt "high flow" performance replacement unit. In fact, it is technically not legal to even replace a converter unless it has been proven by technician to have failed, and then it can only be replaced with an exempt OEM equivalent unit. (However, enforcement of this requirement is almost non-existent and is the primary loop-hole that allows the usage of so-called "high flow" catalytic converters. Many of these units are sold with the disclaimer as being a "race" component and are not intended for street use.) Due to the hundreds of vehicle models produced over the years, it is virtually impossible to determine by glancing under a car whether the converter is the original unit, a legal OEM replacement, or a non-legal aftermarket "high flow" performance unit. Unless CARB or the EPA decide to take more aggressive enforcement action, the installation and usage of these non-exempt "high flow" catalytic converters will likely continue.
Can I remove my stock exhaust manifold/catalytic converter and replace them with a header/catalytic converter combination on my RX-7?
Not legally. As mentioned above, CARB or the EPA does not allow relocation of any of the stock catalytic converters. They require that all original catalytic converters be in their original positions, and replacement of multiple catalytic converters with a single non-exempt "high flow" performance unit is not allowed.
Although using a header (or downpipe) and catalytic converter combination might pass a tailpipe test at a California tailpipe emissions test, it would NOT pass the visual inspection portion of the test. Since the engine configuration of the rotary engine in the RX-7 is rather unique, it is possible that some test station technicians may not be familiar with the this layout, and they may not even notice that a header (or downpipe) and/or replacement catalytic converter has been installed.
Why are some aftermarket products are labeled with the following phrase, "Legal in California only for racing vehicles, which may never be used upon a highway."?
Since Racing Beat is located in Anaheim, CA, we are under the jurisdiction of the California Air Resources Board. Emissions sensitive parts that are offered for sale in California that have not received a CARB exemption must be sold as "racing" parts, which cannot be used upon a public highway. We include this statement with specific product descriptions to inform our customers of the emissions status of that particular product.
Will Racing Beat obtain a CARB exemption for every emission sensitive part that is offered?
No, many of the parts that we offer are intended for racing applications only and it is not possible to obtain an exemption. Selected parts for street applications (i.e. intake kits, street headers, etc…) may be submitted for testing.
Will the addition of an aftermarket part to my car void my Mazda warranty?
This is a question that can only be answered by your local Mazda dealer. We have worked with many Mazda dealers that are "aftermarket friendly" and others that take a hard-line stance towards non-Mazdaspeed aftermarket parts. If your new car warranty is of concern, we suggest you contact your local servicing dealer and speak with their service manager regarding their stance towards an aftermarket part that you are considering.
The aftermarket has been battling this issue for many years. Many products are well-designed and should not adversely affect the performance, drivability, or reliability of a vehicle, but many poorly designed and manufactured parts may indeed have an adverse affect. It is hoped that a "cause and affect" relationship would exist when making a warranty claim determination. For example, the installation of an aftermarket muffler should not have an impact on a warranty claim for trouble with the windshield wipers! However, a broken exhaust hanger or leaking gasket might point to the aftermarket muffler as the source of the trouble.
Do not rely on advertising claims made by a company that states that their part will not impact a warranty - how would they possibly know how your local dealer will address YOUR warranty claim?
Another important consideration is to check your new car warranty for specific exclusions that might apply to your model. For example, for many years Mazda has expressly prohibited the usage of synthetic oil in the rotary engine. If the warranty expressly prohibits the installation or use of a specific product, consider yourself warned and proceed at your own risk!
Important Note: Emission laws vary from state-to-state and are constantly changing. We suggest you contact your local and state authorities for laws and requirements for your specific application. Use this guide as reference only.
this is a link if you have 1995 or newer car, if it doesn't pass, basically you can get the product replaced by a dealer, very cheap.
http://www.epa.gov/oms/consumer/warr95fs.txt
epa.gov is where you should go with questions.
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