CARB HD I/M Compliance: What to Do When Your Truck Fails the Test

A Guide to CARB HD I/M Compliance and What to do When a Truck Fails a Test for Sacramento Valley Fleets

Look, we all know regulations can be a pain, especially when it comes to your trucks. That's why we're here at Sac Valley Mobile Diesel Testing. California's got this Clean Truck Check program going, and let's face it, one of your rigs might fail at some point. No worries though, this blog will steer you through what to do if that happens and get you back on the road, fast. Remember...Sac Valley Mobile Diesel Testing is here to help, we come to you!

Facing a Failed Test? Here's What You Need to Do:

1. Diagnose the Problem: A failed test doesn't mean the end of the road. Your test results will have error codes that can guide you towards a repair. This will help prioritize repairs and ensure a successful retest.

2. Make the Repairs: Don't delay! Address the identified issues promptly. Remember, a well-maintained fleet can also save you money on fuel and future repairs. You often have 30 days for a repair so get you trucks tested a month or two prior to your registration date to make sure you have enough time to make your repairs and give yourself time to get the HD I/M CTC retest.

3. Schedule a Retest: Once repairs are complete, contact Sac Valley Mobile Diesel Testing to schedule a convenient retest. We offer mobile testing services, saving you valuable time and keeping your fleet operational.

Tips for a Smooth Retest:

• Double-Check Documentation: Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork, including the original test report and repair records. MAKE SURE THE ENGINE LABEL IS LEGIBLE, IF IT IS NOT VISIBLE/OR MISSING YOU WILL NOT PASS THE COMPLIANCE TEST

• Warm Up the Engine: Before the retest, allow the engine to reach operating temperature for accurate results for smoke opacity testing. 20 minutes should be enough time.

• Choose a Reputable Tester: Opt for a licensed and experienced provider like Sac Valley Mobile Diesel Testing. Our technicians are familiar with the CARB HD I/M program and can ensure a smooth testing process.

Stay Compliant, Stay on the Road:

By following these steps, you can efficiently resolve a failed test and ensure your fleet remains CARB HD I/M compliant. Remember, keeping your vehicles in top shape benefits the environment, avoids costly penalties, and keeps your business running smoothly.

Unfortunately, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) doesn't specify a specific timeframe for a retest after a failed CARB HD I/M compliance test.

However, the program emphasizes prompt action. Here's why:

• Compliance Notice: Upon receiving a Notice to Submit to Testing (NST) from CARB, you have 30 calendar daysto submit a passing test result. This suggests addressing the issue and retesting should be done as soon as possible within this timeframe.
• Benefits of Early Repair: Fixing the emission problem quickly not only helps you regain compliance but also reduces the potential for further damage to the vehicle and avoids additional repair costs down the line.

Here's what you can recommend in your blog:

• Act Quickly: Advise fleet owners to prioritize repairs and schedule a retest as soon as possible after receiving the failed test report.
• Contact CARB: While there's no set retest window, we strongly encourage fleet owners to contact CARB by email at hdim@arb.ca.gov or 1-866-634-3735 to inquire about any specific timeframes or extensions that might apply to their situation. CARB has been pretty good about working with owners with extensions, but you have to call them prior to expirations so don't hesitate to call.
  
  

Partner with Sac Valley Mobile Diesel Testing:

We are your one-stop shop for all your CARB HD I/M needs. Contact us today to schedule a convenient mobile testing appointment and keep your Sacramento Valley fleet compliant and clean!

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