Archive for the 'Emission' Category

As part of the emissions control system, the 2001 Jeep Cherokee emissions control leak detection pump, more commonly known as the LDP, works within the system to prevent evaporative emissions from the vehicle. Evaporative emissions are different than tailpipe emissions since they occur directly from the gasoline stored in the gas tank and engine and are produced when the vehicle is sitting idle as well as when it is running. The 2001 Jeep Cherokee emissions control leak detection pump works like any other leak detection pump in monitoring any problems within the system that traps the gasoline vapors before they escape and cause damage to the environment.

Basically the 2001 Jeep Cherokee emissions control leak detection pump works as part of the system that self-monitors, does routine diagnostic tests as well as adjusts to correct problems. In addition the LDP also produced data that is relayed to the on-board diagnostic system, OBD-ll that stores this information for review by a technician when the vehicle is brought in for service. The OBD-ll generates a list of codes that allows the mechanic (more correctly the technician) to be able to see how the various emission system parts, including the LDP, are working at any given time.

The 2001 Jeep Cherokee emissions control leak detection pump is the first step in the diagnostic test that the vehicle will periodically run on itself. The reason that the LDP is the first test is because it is required to pump or pressurize and seal the rest of the system to allow the rest of the diagnostic test. If the LDP was malfunctioning, the rest of the emissions system would read as malfunctioning, invalidating all the test results. The system first tests the LDP for leaks, electrical malfunction or damage. Once the 2001 Jeep Cherokee emissions control leak detection pump passes this test, the next step is for the system to electronically signal to the pump to seal off the vent valve and pressurize the rest of the emissions control system. If the vent does not seal, an error code is generate and the rest of the test is stopped. Provided the vent seals correct, the system is closed and pressurized and the test continues.

There are several different parts in the LDP including the solenoid, upper and lower pump, vent values, check valves and an outlet check valve. The electrical components are also included in the pump and must be working correctly for the pump to function and operate. Thankfully the leak detection system is so sophisticated it can identify tiny malfunctions in the LDP and signal problems before there are serious issues within the system.

For most makes and models of cars, trucks and SUV’s a vehicle emissions control information sticker can be found somewhere under the hood, usually close to the front and right side of the inside of the hood where it is clearly visible. The purpose of this decal is to provide the mechanic with the specific vehicle emissions control information that will be required when repairing or working on the engine.

There are several abbreviations used on the vehicle emissions control information sticker and they include:

• BPA – by pass air
• CONV – conventional system
• EGR – exhaust gas recirculation
• EGR BPT – exhaust gas recirculation back pressure transducer
• EVAP – evaporative emission
• EVAP CSP – evaporative emissions canister storage/purging
• IAC – idle air control
• IAC FIC – idle air control fast idle control
• PCV – positive crankcase ventilation
• TI – transistorized ignition
• WU-TWC – warm-up three way catalytic converter
• UB – underbody
• TWC – three way catalytic converter
• VCC – vacuum cut control solenoid

As a vehicle owner you won’t need to know or remember these terms, however the vehicle emissions control information sticker and the schematic drawing that shows these different areas of the engine are essential for your repair professional.

The easiest way for a driver to know when the vehicle has noted a problem with in the vehicle emissions control system is that the malfunction light will come on in the dash. Depending on the model and type of vehicle that you drive the light will be different. Typically there is some type of “check engine” message that is associated with the particular in-dash system, but in addition the vehicle will also store a record of what was happening in the engine within the computer memory. When you take your vehicle to the repair shop their diagnostic computer interacts with your vehicle computer chip, allowing the computer to literally help diagnosis the malfunction in your vehicle. In order to properly set and repair the vehicle, the vehicle emissions control information that is specific to your vehicle and engine will be used.

The computer system will also clear itself after so many drive cycles are completed without the same fault or detection occurring. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle the number of drive cycles required to clear the system will vary, but it is typically around three. This means that if the reading was an abnormality that doesn’t repeat, the car will actually reset it own computer chip and will cease to continue to alert the driver through the indicator light.

Most drivers are well aware of the relationship between fuel economy and efficiency and the size of the vehicle. Truck emissions control technology, in both diesel and gasoline burning trucks, has continued to improve with increased research as well as pressure from various environmental groups and agencies. In addition consumers themselves have become more aware of the importance of truck emissions control systems and efficiency both for cost saving as well as environmental reasons.

One option that many truck manufacturers have moved towards is smaller, lighter vehicles to help limit truck emissions. Control systems that are designed to both prevent tailpipe emissions as well as closed system gasoline tanks that prevent evaporative emissions are all standard in most newer trucks. Truck emissions control systems are also standardized in the heavier types of diesel trucks such as dump trucks and heavy hauling vehicles.

There are several programs offered by state government to help upgrade truck emissions control systems for older gasoline motors or for diesel engines. One state that offers such a program is Texas, however it is only applicable to heavy diesel trucks. In addition California also offers truck emissions control grants and incentives that help owners and operators of heavy trucks upgrade to more efficient engines.

Keeping the truck motor, whether diesel or gasoline, well repaired and completely up to date with regards to parts and service is one easy way for truck owners to help manage emissions. Another easy way to help your emissions low on your truck is to properly maintain your tires, keeping them inflated to the correct pressure to prevent additional fuel use when driving.

Some other tips for helping truck emissions control systems limit the amount of hydrocarbons produced include:

• Eliminate all extra weight from the vehicle. Often truck owners tend to store a lot of extra “stuff” such as tools, equipment, materials and other objects in the bed of the truck. This extra weight can increase the load on the engine, resulting in higher emissions.

• The use of regular gas additives that help to reduce build up in the engine will help prevent some tailpipe emissions and will also keep the engine running more efficiently.

• Purchase the right grade of diesel fuel or gasoline that is recommended for use in the engine. Each truck manufacturer will make a recommendation in the vehicle manual that indicates the best grade of fuel to use for the type and size of engine. If there is no manual for the vehicle, call a dealership or check with the company via information on the internet that will clearly detail the fuel.

Following a few simple and easy steps can help to truck emissions control systems work to optimum levels.

Most drivers are well aware of the relationship between fuel economy and efficiency and the size of the vehicle. Truck emissions control technology, in both diesel and gasoline burning trucks, has continued to improve with increased research as well as pressure from various environmental groups and agencies. In addition consumers themselves have become more aware of the importance of truck emissions control systems and efficiency both for cost saving as well as environmental reasons.

One option that many truck manufacturers have moved towards is smaller, lighter vehicles to help limit truck emissions. Control systems that are designed to both prevent tailpipe emissions as well as closed system gasoline tanks that prevent evaporative emissions are all standard in most newer trucks. Truck emissions control systems are also standardized in the heavier types of diesel trucks such as dump trucks and heavy hauling vehicles.

There are several programs offered by state government to help upgrade truck emissions control systems for older gasoline motors or for diesel engines. One state that offers such a program is Texas, however it is only applicable to heavy diesel trucks. In addition California also offers truck emissions control grants and incentives that help owners and operators of heavy trucks upgrade to more efficient engines.

Keeping the truck motor, whether diesel or gasoline, well repaired and completely up to date with regards to parts and service is one easy way for truck owners to help manage emissions. Another easy way to help your emissions low on your truck is to properly maintain your tires, keeping them inflated to the correct pressure to prevent additional fuel use when driving.

Some other tips for helping truck emissions control systems limit the amount of hydrocarbons produced include:

• Eliminate all extra weight from the vehicle. Often truck owners tend to store a lot of extra “stuff” such as tools, equipment, materials and other objects in the bed of the truck. This extra weight can increase the load on the engine, resulting in higher emissions.

• The use of regular gas additives that help to reduce build up in the engine will help prevent some tailpipe emissions and will also keep the engine running more efficiently.

• Purchase the right grade of diesel fuel or gasoline that is recommended for use in the engine. Each truck manufacturer will make a recommendation in the vehicle manual that indicates the best grade of fuel to use for the type and size of engine. If there is no manual for the vehicle, call a dealership or check with the company via information on the internet that will clearly detail the fuel.

Following a few simple and easy steps can help to truck emissions control systems work to optimum levels.

The Chevy Equinox, a mini van type of vehicle, complies to all state and federal regulations with regards to emissions control systems within the United States and within other countries where the vehicle is sold. The Equinox emissions control diagnostic system is designed to monitor the emissions control system and indicated any malfunctions to the driver through the use of in-dash “check engine” lights as well as through the OnStar Diagnostics that are available on most of the current year models of the Chevy Equinox. Most 2004 or newer model years of General Motors vehicles, in particular the Equinox have the optional OnStar system available for owners.

The Equinox emissions control diagnostic through the OnStar system works by checking your Equinox emissions control diagnostic system on a regular basis, then sending an email version of the results plus any recommended maintenance or repair action required. Owners can then determine if they wish to book an appointment to have the issues addressed or, if the tests come back with no action required, the driver is confident that the emissions control system is working correctly. This means that even busy owners that don’t have time to do the scheduled maintenance will get a monthly reminder of the overall condition of the emissions control system as well as reminders for oil changes, tune ups and even yearly inspections, tire rotation and scheduled tests. Since keeping your vehicle in top repair helps to remove the additional strain or pressure on the Equinox emissions control diagnostic system, all aspects of the OnStar system work to ensure a properly functioning and safe vehicle.

Even for the Chevy Equinox emissions control diagnostic systems that pre-date the OnStar option, in dash lights and on on-board diagnostic computer work to constantly monitor the emission system within the vehicle. When the owner takes the vehicle to the mechanic for a problem, typically rough idling, poor acceleration or poor gas mileage are the complaints, the emissions system always one of the first potential problem areas considered. The Chevy technician can hook the on-board computer up to a diagnostic computer through the use of a data cable, transferring all the information from the Equinox emissions control diagnostic system to the diagnostic computer. This computer then generates a list of codes that indicate problems within the system. The technician or mechanic then can address the issues that have caused the codes to be registered. In some cases the codes may just need to be reset as the system is self-correcting as much as possible. For codes that indicate an equipment malfunction or breakdown, the part will need to be repaired or replaced and the system reset.

Just like any type of evap emissions control system, then Kia Sportage evaporative emissions control system works to prevent gasoline vapors from being released or vented into the air. This can happen when a vehicle is parked in a hot area and the low vaporization point of the fuel is reached just by having the vehicle in the sun. The evap emissions control system, Kia Sportage sports utility vehicle or any other type of vehicle, works as a closed system, trapping the vapors in a canister and allowing them to be burned in the combustion chamber of the engine once the vehicle is started. The evap emissions control system, Kia Sportage and other Kia models, can have several different issues that cause the in dash “check engine” light to appear so owners need to be aware of what issues can potentially cause the problem.

Since the in-dash light system, controlled by the on-board diagnostic computer or OBD ll system, can be triggered by the evap emissions control system, Kia Sportage drivers need to be aware of the issues that can cause the light to come one. Sometimes the “check engine” light can come on for reasons that can be remedied by the owner or driver, while other times the light can be a very serious issue that needs to be corrected immediately by a certified Kia technician to prevent further costly damage to the car’s engine or exhaust system. The evap emissions control system, Kia Sportage models, is hooked up to a diagnostic computer which downloads the information from the vehicle’s OBD ll system, allowing the technician to access the information on the emissions control systems and diagnose the malfunction or problem. This is done through a series of codes that the technician’s computer generates that correspond to malfunctions within the system.

Some of the common evap emissions control system Kia Sportage codes and common problems include:

PO455 – Evap emissions control system leak (large) – this is a serious problem that can be both costly to repair as well as can cause the vehicle to stop running or become unable to start. If the engine light comes on with this code it is critical to get the vehicle into a certified Kia technician for repair.

Loose gap cap – when the gas cap is not tightened as per the owner’s manual, it is possible that the emissions system will generate an error code and a “check engine” light will be visible on the dash. This is typically corrected once the gas cap is removed, tightened correctly and the Kia is driven through the required number of drive cycles without another incorrect reading. Typically if this reading is found when you take the vehicle to a technician there is no charge and the engine light is simply reset provided the gas cap is not damaged and the seal around the opening to the gas tank is intact.

PO452 – Evap control pres sensor low – this can be caused by a loose gas cap as well but is more likely a problem with a hose that has come loose or a pressure control circuit that is malfunctioning. A Kia technician would need to test the system to find out where the problem is with the pressure in the system.

Most drivers are well aware of the relationship between fuel economy and efficiency and the size of the vehicle. Truck emissions control technology, in both diesel and gasoline burning trucks, has continued to improve with increased research as well as pressure from various environmental groups and agencies. In addition consumers themselves have become more aware of the importance of truck emissions control systems and efficiency both for cost saving as well as environmental reasons.

One option that many truck manufacturers have moved towards is smaller, lighter vehicles to help limit truck emissions. Control systems that are designed to both prevent tailpipe emissions as well as closed system gasoline tanks that prevent evaporative emissions are all standard in most newer trucks. Truck emissions control systems are also standardized in the heavier types of diesel trucks such as dump trucks and heavy hauling vehicles.

There are several programs offered by state government to help upgrade truck emissions control systems for older gasoline motors or for diesel engines. One state that offers such a program is Texas, however it is only applicable to heavy diesel trucks. In addition California also offers truck emissions control grants and incentives that help owners and operators of heavy trucks upgrade to more efficient engines.

Keeping the truck motor, whether diesel or gasoline, well repaired and completely up to date with regards to parts and service is one easy way for truck owners to help manage emissions. Another easy way to help your emissions low on your truck is to properly maintain your tires, keeping them inflated to the correct pressure to prevent additional fuel use when driving.

Some other tips for helping truck emissions control systems limit the amount of hydrocarbons produced include:

• Eliminate all extra weight from the vehicle. Often truck owners tend to store a lot of extra “stuff” such as tools, equipment, materials and other objects in the bed of the truck. This extra weight can increase the load on the engine, resulting in higher emissions.

• The use of regular gas additives that help to reduce build up in the engine will help prevent some tailpipe emissions and will also keep the engine running more efficiently.

• Purchase the right grade of diesel fuel or gasoline that is recommended for use in the engine. Each truck manufacturer will make a recommendation in the vehicle manual that indicates the best grade of fuel to use for the type and size of engine. If there is no manual for the vehicle, call a dealership or check with the company via information on the internet that will clearly detail the fuel.

Following a few simple and easy steps can help to truck emissions control systems work to optimum levels.

In New York State, Nassau county emissions reduction programs are being designed and implemented to decrease the amount of carbon and other harmful emissions produced by diesel motors used in any type of city or county vehicles and transportation systems. The Nassau county emissions reduction plan has been developed in conjunction with other counties such as Suffolk, Rockland, Westchester and New York City to make this one of the more comprehensive programs throughout the area.

The goals of the Nassau county emissions reduction program are to bring all their equipment up to current upgrades or replace, retire or repair any existing equipment that does not meet standards with regards to operating efficiency. Not only does the program just deal with upgrading the current infastructure of the transportation and government vehicle systems, it is also designed to encourage the development of newer, more efficient transportation and fuel use systems, help with the development of more efficient types of fuels and motors as well as reduce engine idling and pollution generation throughout the counties and cities involved in the project.

One of the many ways that the Nassau county emissions reduction program is helping the environment is to provide funding in the form of grants and financial support to areas that are striving to reduce the amount of emissions from diesel motors within their area. Besides just financial support, the commission overseeing the program is also involved in matching technical support with counties and areas that want to reduce their emissions and use different types of engines, fuels and systems.

The New York State Department of Transportation as well as the Federal Highways Administration are both on board with the programs and goals of the Nassau county emissions reduction program and are actively supporting the goals outlined in the agreement. Through funding programs and incentives these agencies are working to encourage the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) cars and busses that produce almost no emissions, making them on of the best options for government transportation programs. Currently the county owns 320 CNG buses and 20 compressed natural gas cars, with another 20 on the way. Additionally the county has moved to using a very low-sulfur bio-diesel fuel that will be used exclusively in non-emergency diesel vehicles within the county. The impact of these changes on the emissions within Nassau county is huge, providing a great and positive impact on the people and the environment in the area.

The goals of the Nassau county emissions reduction program is to continue to look for new and innovative ways to advance the use of low emissions fuels, to upgrade transportation to more fuel efficient and “green” fuels as well as make the government the leader in policy in this area.

Emissions reduction is one idea that every individual can help with and by changing just a few small habits or behaviors all people can have a definite, positive impact on the world around them. While sometimes the media tends to focus on “carbon footprints” and the amount of emissions by large industries, even as an individual it is possible to work on emissions reduction programs right within your own home or apartment.

There are some very simple ways to focus on emissions reduction when it comes to operating your motor vehicle. Of course the best possible option is to look at a vehicle that uses alternative types of fuels or at the very least gets significant gas mileage. The large, luxury cars and sports utility vehicles are definitely not in this category, however that doesn’t mean they can’t still be used, just limit your use of the those types of vehicles. In the real world buying a hybrid or alternative fuel vehicle is just not possible for everyone, but the following emissions reduction strategies are:

• Whenever possible don’t use your vehicle. Consider using a bicycle for short distances or even walking to save on all types of pollution and emissions. For longer distances or if you have to carry things the bus is a great option, plus you don’t have the additional stress of having to navigate through traffic.

• Combining trips and errands and planning your drive can really help with emissions reduction as well as saving on the high price of fuel. Start by looking at what you need to do in the day and grouping activities by location. You may even want to alter your schedule and change your habits by only going to the grocery store once or even switching banks or other services so they are more centralized and require less travel.

• Switch or convert to bill payment and even shopping using the computer. The more that you are avoiding simply being in your vehicle the greater emissions reduction benefits you will be providing to the environment.

• Always keep your vehicle in good repair. Not only does this prevent breakdowns and mechanical problems, but a well maintained engine is less likely to produce excessive emissions and will more efficiently burn fuel.

• Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Saggy or deflated tires provide more friction on the road, requiring more fuel to propel the vehicle. By keeping your tires inflated you can actually save gas, plus lower your emissions.

Besides just reducing driving, other emissions reduction programs that you can do right in your home include participating in recycling programs, buying “green” products that are free from chemicals that release toxins as well as carbon dioxide. Finally plant as many trees and plants as you can in your green space or yard. Trees are nature filters of carbon dioxide, plus they will make your yard a wonderful place to spend time.

The Chevy Equinox, a mini van type of vehicle, complies to all state and federal regulations with regards to emissions control systems within the United States and within other countries where the vehicle is sold. The Equinox emissions control diagnostic system is designed to monitor the emissions control system and indicated any malfunctions to the driver through the use of in-dash “check engine” lights as well as through the OnStar Diagnostics that are available on most of the current year models of the Chevy Equinox. Most 2004 or newer model years of General Motors vehicles, in particular the Equinox have the optional OnStar system available for owners.

The Equinox emissions control diagnostic through the OnStar system works by checking your Equinox emissions control diagnostic system on a regular basis, then sending an email version of the results plus any recommended maintenance or repair action required. Owners can then determine if they wish to book an appointment to have the issues addressed or, if the tests come back with no action required, the driver is confident that the emissions control system is working correctly. This means that even busy owners that don’t have time to do the scheduled maintenance will get a monthly reminder of the overall condition of the emissions control system as well as reminders for oil changes, tune ups and even yearly inspections, tire rotation and scheduled tests. Since keeping your vehicle in top repair helps to remove the additional strain or pressure on the Equinox emissions control diagnostic system, all aspects of the OnStar system work to ensure a properly functioning and safe vehicle.

Even for the Chevy Equinox emissions control diagnostic systems that pre-date the OnStar option, in dash lights and on on-board diagnostic computer work to constantly monitor the emission system within the vehicle. When the owner takes the vehicle to the mechanic for a problem, typically rough idling, poor acceleration or poor gas mileage are the complaints, the emissions system always one of the first potential problem areas considered. The Chevy technician can hook the on-board computer up to a diagnostic computer through the use of a data cable, transferring all the information from the Equinox emissions control diagnostic system to the diagnostic computer. This computer then generates a list of codes that indicate problems within the system. The technician or mechanic then can address the issues that have caused the codes to be registered. In some cases the codes may just need to be reset as the system is self-correcting as much as possible. For codes that indicate an equipment malfunction or breakdown, the part will need to be repaired or replaced and the system reset.