State of Wisconsin Emissions Testing: 2023 Updates

Introduction

The State of Wisconsin requires emissions testing for vehicles registered in certain counties. This testing is designed to ensure that vehicles meet state emissions standards and reduce air pollution. In this article, we will provide an overview of the Wisconsin emissions testing program, including the counties where it is required, the types of vehicles that are subject to testing, and the benefits of emissions testing.

Counties Where Emissions Testing is Required

Emissions testing is required in the following counties in Wisconsin:

• Brown
• Calumet
• Dane
• Door
• Kenosha
• Manitowoc
• Milwaukee
• Ozaukee
• Racine
• Sheboygan
• Washington
• Waukesha

Vehicles Subject to Emissions Testing

All gasoline-powered vehicles that are registered in the required counties and are model year 1996 or newer are subject to emissions testing. This includes passenger cars, light trucks, and SUVs. Diesel-powered vehicles are not subject to emissions testing.

Types of Emissions Tests

Two types of emissions tests are performed in Wisconsin:

• Idle Test: This test measures the levels of pollutants emitted by a vehicle while it is idling.
• Loaded Test: This test measures the levels of pollutants emitted by a vehicle while it is being driven on a dynamometer.

Benefits of Emissions Testing

Emissions testing provides a number of benefits, including:

• Reduced Air Pollution: Emissions testing helps to reduce air pollution by ensuring that vehicles meet state emissions standards. This can improve air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory problems.
• Improved Fuel Efficiency: Emissions testing can help to improve fuel efficiency by identifying and fixing problems that can cause increased emissions.
• Extended Vehicle Life: Emissions testing can help to extend the life of a vehicle by identifying and fixing problems that can lead to premature failure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a number of common mistakes that people make when preparing for emissions testing. These mistakes can lead to a failed test or an inaccurate reading. Here are some tips to avoid these mistakes:

• Don't get your oil changed too close to the test. Changing your oil can temporarily increase your vehicle's emissions. It is best to wait at least 500 miles after an oil change before getting your emissions tested.
• Don't fill up your gas tank right before the test. Overfilling your gas tank can cause your vehicle's emissions to increase. It is best to fill up your tank no more than 3/4 full before the test.
• Don't drive your vehicle aggressively before the test. Aggressive driving can increase your vehicle's emissions. It is best to drive your vehicle calmly and smoothly before the test.

How Emissions Testing Matters

Emissions testing is an important part of maintaining clean air in Wisconsin. By ensuring that vehicles meet state emissions standards, emissions testing helps to reduce air pollution and improve public health.

Benefits of Emissions Testing

In addition to the environmental benefits, emissions testing also provides a number of benefits to vehicle owners, including:

• Reduced fuel costs: Emissions testing can help to identify and fix problems that can cause increased emissions and reduced fuel efficiency.
• Extended vehicle life: Emissions testing can help to identify and fix problems that can lead to premature vehicle failure.
• Peace of mind: Knowing that your vehicle meets state emissions standards can give you peace of mind and reduce the risk of getting pulled over for a traffic violation.

Pros and Cons of Emissions Testing

Pros:

• Reduces air pollution
• Improves public health
• Saves money on fuel costs
• Extends vehicle life
• Provides peace of mind

Cons:

• Can be inconvenient
• Can be expensive
• Can be inaccurate

Conclusion

Emissions testing is an important part of maintaining clean air in Wisconsin. By ensuring that vehicles meet state emissions standards, emissions testing helps to reduce air pollution, improve public health, and save money on fuel costs.