What Is an Emissions Test?

What is an emissions test? An emissions test, or smog check, measures the pollutants released from your vehicle’s exhaust. It checks how well your vehicle’s onboard computer manages fuel, ignition, and air intake to keep emissions within state limits. The test focuses on pollutants like hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, oxygen, and nitrogen oxides. Below, we address the following questions:

• How long does an emissions test take?
• How much is an emissions test?
• Do I need an emissions test?

Now that we’ve gone over “What Is an Emissions Test?” It’s important to know that Saskatchewan is one of the provinces that does not require drivers to have their vehicles undergo emissions testing. While you don’t need to ask, “Do I need an emissions test?” Your vehicle still requires other checks and inspections for legal registration. 

But if you live in Ontario, for example, or are planning to move, owners of a heavy-duty diesel commercial vehicle over a certain registered gross weight, like a large truck or bus, an emissions test is required during your license plate renewal. As of 2019, most lightweight vehicles, such as sedans, SUVs, and small trucks, don’t need to get an emissions test in Ontario.

That being said, you don’t need to worry or ask, “How much is an emissions test?” or “How long does an emissions test take,” but we’re here to help you understand the required safety inspections in our province. Take a look at our guide to vehicle testing in Saskatchewan, and contact us if you have any questions.

What Vehicle Tests Are Required in Saskatchewan?

If you’re buying a used vehicle from outside Saskatchewan, it must go through two types of inspections. At Titan Automotive near Saskatoon, a certified inspection site, we can handle both for you:

Body Integrity Inspections

If your vehicle has been in an accident and declared a total loss, or if you’ve bought a used vehicle from outside the province, you’ll need a body integrity inspection to ensure it’s safe to drive on the roads of Moose Jaw. Please bring the following for this inspection:

• A cross-Canada VIN search from any SGI motor license issuer
• Proof of ownership

Mechanical Safety Inspections

Vehicles that require body integrity inspections also need mechanical safety inspections. If your vehicle needs repairs to pass the inspection, we’ll let you know before starting any work. We won’t proceed without your approval. You can have the repairs done at Titan Automotive or any other certified service center. 

After your vehicle passes all required inspections, you will receive certificates as proof. Remember to bring these certificates when you register your vehicle.

How Much Does Safety Testing Cost?

While you don’t need to worry about how much is an emissions test, you might be wondering about the cost of the safety testing we just went over. The cost of safety testing can vary by inspection facility. For body integrity inspections, facilities usually charge their standard hourly labor rate. Mechanical safety inspections typically take around ninety minutes to complete.

Schedule Your Vehicle Inspection near Regina!

If your car fails these inspections, you could lose your insurance or be unable to renew your registration until the necessary repairs are made. Schedule your inspection in Regina today, and don’t forget to explore our service specials for expert maintenance and genuine OEM parts to keep your car performing at its best!