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Forum > Failed Smog Test > Question

1997 Mitsubishi Montero Monitors Not Complete Failed Smog Inspection

Hello. My 1997 Mitsubishi, Montero failed the smog inspection overall, but pass the emissions portion of it... I can't understand why. My emissions were like perfect, but the print out reads: "This car failed the MIL/Check Engine Light due to failure to successfully complete all OBD self tests." What do I do now?


Answer:

It appears your Mitsubishi Montero has not yet completed two or more of its emission monitors. Mitusbishi Montero's battery was recently replaced, needed to be charged or disconnected, or if your Mitsubishi needed smog check related repairs during which the ECU (engine control unit) was disconnected from the power source, more than likely the Emission Monitors (also known as Readiness Flags) were erased and you must drive your Mitsubishi through an OBD II Drive Cycle in order to complete them (referred to as "Setting the Monitors".

During the smog inspection the smog machine will check to ensure the proper Emission Monitors (which are internal self-tests) have passed. You are only allowed one (2) incomplete monitor for your model year vehicle.

The Generic OBD II Drive Cycle below will usually set the necessary emission monitors. This OBDII drive cycle begins with a cold start (coolant temperature below 122 degrees F). We recommend achieving this by letting your BMW cool down overnight, and beginning the drive cycle process the next day. Take extra caution while performing drive cycles on public roadways. Drive cycles can be difficult to follow under normal driving conditions.

Begin by: (Make sure you have between 1/4 and 3/4 fuel in the gas tank. The EVAP test will not run while your Mistubishi has a full tank of gas or the gas tank is near empty) .

- Start the engine. Idle the engine in drive for two and a half minutes with the A/C and rear defroster on.

- Turn the A/C and rear defrost off, and accelerate to 55 mph at half throttle.

- Hold at a steady speed of 55 mph for three minutes.

- Decelerate (coast down) to 20 mph without braking or depressing the clutch.

- Accelerate back to 55 to 60 mph at ¾ throttle.

- Hold at a steady speed of 55 to 60 mph for five minutes.

- Decelerate (coast down) to a stop without braking.

If all other emissions systems are functioning properly, completing the drive cycle above should set the "readiness flags" required to pass the smog check. It will not hurt to perform the drive cycle 2 or 3 times before the smog inspection.


posted by SmogTips Support

 

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