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Forum > Failed Smog Test > Question

1996 Ford Ranger failed smog test after replacing power steering pump. Computer said computer not ready for smog check.

How do I get computer ready to pass test? I think the battery may have been disconnected during the power steering pump repair.
Answer:

It appears during the recent repair of your Ford Ranger's power steering pump, the OBD II computer system was reset; erasing all the emission monitors (readiness flags) from the computer. This was probably caused by the disconnection or removal of your Ford Ranger's battery. Setting the emission monitors requires driving your truck at least 200 miles; consisting of everyday normal driving, stop and starts (like at red lights and traffic), ignition on and off several times a day with at least 15 minute causes in between (this allows the EVAP monitor to run), and freeway driving at least on three occasions for at least 15 minutes each at speeds above 30 mph. After these driving conditions are met and your Ford still fails the OBD II portion of the smog check, we can only recommend a smog check repair center conduct a diagnosis of the OBD II computer as to clues of why the monitors are not setting. Assuming no Check Engine light or Malfunction Indicator Lamp is illuminated we have to suspect your Ford's only problem is simply not enough drive time yet. posted by SmogTips Support

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