Join the community and post your question. Use our Ask-A-Tech for free now! ASE experts standing by.

Forum > General Smog Check > Question

Nissan Altima failed smog check for high HC (hydrocarbon).

My 1993 Nissan Altima did not pass the smog test at test only station due to excessive hydrocarbons. What causes this and is it an easy fix?
Answer:

Hydrocarbon is basically raw fuel, otherwise known as gasoline. The main reasons vehicles fail for high HC is defective spark delivery; in otherwords, a problem with the ignition or ignition timing system. However, we must first ensure your Nissan is in proper fuel control as well. Too much or not enough fuel will can cause high HC as well. These problems are refered to as Lean or Rich misfires. To avoid spending money on unneccessary repairs it's best to have a smog check repair station diagnose your Altima's smog check failure and repair only the smog components/systems which are defective. posted by SmogTips Support

Related questions and answers you might find useful:

How Do I Get a Smog Check Waiver? by Margaret

Do I Need a Smog Check This Year? by Joy

Mini Cooper DMV Registration Due in 5 Day Won't Pass Smog by anne

2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with K&N Air Filter by David

1995 BMW M3 Gross Polluter High HC & NO @ 15MPH by Jared

View SmogTips.com in: Desktop / Mobile