Can you pass a Texas emissions test with the check-engine light on?

When an emissions control malfunction is detected, a dashboard light illuminates stating "Check Engine" or "Service Engine Soon."

The light must come on when the ignition is turned to the ON position and the light must go OFF when the engine is started.

If the light is not working, the vehicle will FAIL the test

If the MIL command status is ON with a DTC set, the vehicle will fail.

If you've cleared the DTCs (using a scan tool or disconnecting the battery), monitors will reset to "Not Ready".

In order to get the monitors set back to Ready, the vehicle must be driven through a drive cycle, which is a combination of city/highway driving for a set period of time.

approximately 85% of OBD tests that initially fail for an illuminated malfunction indicator light (MIL) with stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) eventually receive a passing inspection.

If the OBDII system detects a problem, a corresponding diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is stored in the computer's memory.

Using an OBDII scan tool, a repair technician can quickly retrieve diagnostic codes from the vehicle computer and make necessary repairs before a more serious problem develops.

If you choose a Recognized Emissions Repair Facility of Texas to repair your vehicle, all diagnostic, parts and labor costs associated with the emissions-related repairs go toward the waiver requirements.

If you choose not to take it back to the station that originally performed the inspection or should you present the vehicle after the 15 days , then your vehicle is no longer eligible for the free re-test.

Transmission DTC repairs can range from $1500 to $3000, although some types may be cheaper (e.g., a transmission speed sensor problem). A waiver may be issued if the diagnosis shows the extent and cost of repair to be unreasonable.

Only diagnosis and repair estimates from a Recognized Emissions Repair Facility (RERF) or a dealership will be accepted to qualify for this type of waiver.