QUESTION: ARE ALL MUNICIPAL/PROVINCIAL VEHICLES TESTED...
Taken to the Drive Cleaners
So I failed my drive clean emission test for the 1st time on Monday. I
drive an econo-box, it's a 2005, great on gas and runs like a top,
having been well maintained - as in never missing a scheduled
maintenance or oil change.
1st Drive Clean Test. $40.00 Bucks.
2nd Drive Clean Test. $40.00 Bucks - confirming results of the first.
Diagnostic Fee - $162.00 Bucks
Verdict - Replacement of Canister VSV component required - (whatever the hell that is, some kind of charcoal filter/valve that helps optimize the air/fuel mix) but it can only be replaced with a "Full Canister" for a small fee of $563.00 Bucks...
I
declined to have the "Problem" fixed and opted for a conditional pass
as allowed under the Drive Clean program because the amount for repairs
is over the $450.00 maximum.
Now what was the nature of the problem?
Was it a safety issue? No.
Did it effect engine life, as in added wear and tear? No.
Did it affect performance? No.
Did it effect fuel efficiency? Possibly, but only to a minor extent.
What did it cost me to find out my car is essentially fine and I can still drive? $242.00 Bucks.
NB. The Canister VSV failure was a known bug for this model car, but was never classed as "recallable" as it wasn't a safety issue. My car has been serviced by the same dealership exclusively from day one and they never felt the need to recommend a repair. The only reason I got burned this time around was the change to the Drive Clean program mandating a computer diagnostic versus a standard emissions test.
>>
1st Drive Clean Test. $40.00 Bucks.
2nd Drive Clean Test. $40.00 Bucks - confirming results of the first.
Diagnostic Fee - $162.00 Bucks
Verdict - Replacement of Canister VSV component required - (whatever the hell that is, some kind of charcoal filter/valve that helps optimize the air/fuel mix) but it can only be replaced with a "Full Canister" for a small fee of $563.00 Bucks...
I
declined to have the "Problem" fixed and opted for a conditional pass
as allowed under the Drive Clean program because the amount for repairs
is over the $450.00 maximum.
Now what was the nature of the problem?
Was it a safety issue? No.
Did it effect engine life, as in added wear and tear? No.
Did it affect performance? No.
Did it effect fuel efficiency? Possibly, but only to a minor extent.
What did it cost me to find out my car is essentially fine and I can still drive? $242.00 Bucks.
NB. The Canister VSV failure was a known bug for this model car, but was never classed as "recallable" as it wasn't a safety issue. My car has been serviced by the same dealership exclusively from day one and they never felt the need to recommend a repair. The only reason I got burned this time around was the change to the Drive Clean program mandating a computer diagnostic versus a standard emissions test.
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