My minivan has a small leak in the emissions system. We've checked what is sometimes a cause of this error code (ill-fitting gas cap), and that's not it. One of the lines has a small leak, but I don't know which one. I need to get the car inspected, but it won't pass until this is fixed (check engine light is on!). I've been told by co-workers this could cost anywhere from $100-$600 or more. Does anyone know of a reliable place that would be at the LOWER end of that scale? Between the new orthodontics bills and everything else, I can't afford to spend a lot. I need it fixed ASAP since I will need to drive that van to a funeral on Sunday, and I really can't afford the ticket for not being up to date on the inspections. Thank you.
A suggestion of a path you can take to alleviate some of your troubles. In NC if you try to have your car inspected and fail for whatever reason it is possible to get a waiver from the DMV that will allow you to get an inspection sticker. You will have to fix the problem by the next time the problem comes around. To get this waiver you have to fail inspectoin (you will have to pay 23.50 at most shops for a failed inspection.) and then show reciepts for repairs done in the effort of getting the car to pass inspection. If, after $200 of repairs the car still fails inspection then you are eligible for a waiver. (Diagnostic charges don't count toward the 200.) You will have to go the DMV and get a waiver letter from the inspector. The shop that originally inspected the car can use that letter to pass you inspection at that point. The re-inspection should only be 6.50. This is often a multiple day process and I know you are in a hurry. My suggestion is get it inspected and failed. You will get a "failed" inspection certificate. Most LEO will be lienient if oyu have the form showing you are in the process of trying ot get it handled. All of that being said, you are kind of in between a rock and a hard place. Most small evaporitive system leaks are relatively inexpensive to repair, but some can be VERY difficult to find. Many shops will charge for the time/labor it takes for the technician to find the leak. Its very possible that you may have a bill for the repair that is 75% diagnostic and 25% repair. Hope this was helpful, Good luck. Mike
