Free vehicle emissions testing
What is on-road vehicle emissions random testing? On-road vehicle emissions random testing is a free service offered by the Department of Transport and Main Roads. It involves motorists being randomly pulled over to have their exhaust tested by the Aircare team of transport inspectors.
On-road vehicle emissions random testing report cardThis is the report form you will be given when your vehicle is emissions tested. This form will give you an indication of whether or not your vehicle has excessive emissions and needs servicing.
Where and when does testing occur?
Being a random service it can happen anywhere, at anytime, in south east Queensland. There are two teams out on the roads daily.
How does the test work?
Each vehicle is tested by two transport inspectors using a mobile 4-gas analyser carried in the back of an Aircare station wagon. The analyser measures levels of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. High levels of these gases may indicate that a car is poorly tuned and emitting unnecessary air pollution.
The transport inspectors compare test results to recommended emission levels and then give each car a report card with a GOOD, FAIR or POOR rating. Motorists receiving a FAIR or POOR result are encouraged to take their vehicle to a mechanic for a check and, if necessary, a service.
Older vehicles
Recommended emissions levels have been set for cars of different ages, taking into account advances in technology. Regular servicing is the key to improved engine performance and a reduction in harmful emissions. Properly serviced older cars can perform well, while even the newest models can perform badly if not serviced correctly.
Technical information about on-road vehicle emissions random testing
Motor vehicle air pollutants
Carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, particles, volatile organic compounds and sulphur dioxide.
4-gas analyser
Measures four gases: carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, oxygen and carbon dioxide. Carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon levels can indicate whether a car is well tuned or not.
Emissions testing probe
A probe is inserted into the exhaust pipe while the engine is idling. The probe samples the exhaust gases produced by the combustion process.
Gas levels
Target levels are set for cars manufactured pre-1986 and from 1986 onward. This allows for advances in vehicle technology (a well-tuned older car will emit different levels to a well-tuned new car). Transport Inspectors compare measured levels of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons to target levels of these gases.
Motor vehicle air pollutants
For pre-1986 vehicles, the percentage volume of carbon monoxide should not exceed 4.5 per cent and 400 ppm (parts per million) hydrocarbons. For post-1986 vehicles, emissions should not exceed 2 per cent carbon monoxide and 250 ppm hydrocarbons. The reading for carbon dioxide will be quite high if the car is performing efficiently (around 15 per cent). Carbon dioxide contributes to greenhouse gases but is an unavoidable result of burning fuel.
