New E-test Regulation Starting January 1, 2013

The Minister of Environment has introduced a new procedure for the drive clean process.

They will no longer be using the tail pipe test but instead reading the on board computer system. There have been many people complaining because they can not get their cars past a ready state. If the car is not in a ready state the vehicle can not be tested at all. This is creating havoc as car dealers and owners are waiting until the last minute to get the e-test done, as their validation stickers expire.

In order to put the car in a ready state you must complete a drive cycle. (Every car is different) Drive Clean will supply a generic drive cycle and it can be found at www.driveclean.com.

If there is a light on your vehicle they will not even look at it. Presley’s Auto Showcase offers a service to its customers that will read the light during an oil change or regular maintenance appointment (free of charge). I am including the generic drive cycle and what to do if your vehicle is in a not ready state.

At Presley’s Auto Showcase you can be confident that your car will be safety certified and e-tested.

You can also take your vehicle through a “generic drive cycle”:

  • Step 1: Make sure the vehicle has been parked for eight hours without a start.
  • Step 2: Start the engine and let it idle in Drive for two-and-a-half minutes with the Air Conditioning (A/C) and rear defroster on.
  • Step 3: Turn the A/C and rear defroster off. Drive the vehicle for 10 minutes at highway speeds.
  • Step 4: Drive the vehicle for 20 minutes in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Step 5: Your drive cycle is complete. You can now go in for your test.

Gas tank should be to full. Driver should avoid rapid acceleration.

1988 to 1997 model year vehicles require a different test.

Update: Source UCDA