Georgia's Clean Air Force An Overview for the Motoring Public

Georgia's Clean Air ForceAn Overview for the Motoring Public

What is Georgias Clean Air Force?Testing InformationMy Vehicle Did Not Pass, Why?Repairing My VehicleRetest ProcessVehicle SalesRegistration ScenariosResources At Your FingertipsOverviewSlide *7.22.2014

`What Is Georgia's Clean Air Force?

Georgia's Clean Air Force (GCAF) is the state's emissions testing program, also known as the Georgia Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) Program.

The I/M program has been in existence since 1981. Federal CCA Amendments of 1990 led to Georgia being required to implement an enhanced inspection and maintenance program. This enhanced program was implemented in 1996. OBD testing began in 2002.

Slide *

`What Is Georgia's Clean Air Force?

Did you know?

GCAF has cleaned up nearly 2 million vehicles since the program started in 1996.The program covers thirteen (13) metro Atlanta counties.

The covered counties include: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding and Rockdale.

Slide *Did you know?GCAF has cleaned up nearly two million vehicles since the program started.

In This Section:

Why We TestWhat Are The Benefits Of Emissions Testing?How Do I Get My Vehicle Tested?Testing InformationSlide *

Testing InformationWhy We TestAir pollution is a public health and environmental issue in metro Atlanta.

Particulate matter found in air pollution can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems.

Children and senior citizens are especially vulnerable, but anyone who inhales deeply can suffer asthma attacks, coughing and wheezing, and shortness of breath. For additional details, download the Health Benefits poster.Slide *06.06.2014

GCAF is designed to identify and ultimately repair the emissions issues that cause gasoline-powered cars and light-duty trucks to pollute the air.

Since 1996, more than two million heavy polluting vehicles have been identified and repaired.

Testing InformationWhat Are The Benefits Of Emissions Testing?Help Georgia Breathe A Little Easier!Slide *

Which vehicles require testing?

Please see the current Question and Answer (Q&A) brochure.

Which vehicles do not require testing?

Three most recent model yearsVehicles 25 model years old or olderDiesel powered vehiclesMotorcyclesRVs and motor homesAlternative fueled vehicles that run exclusively on alternative fuels

View the Question and Answer (Q&A) brochure for more details.

Testing InformationHow Do I Get My Vehicle Tested?Slide *06.06.2014

Where do I test?

You may get your vehicle tested at any testing station which displays a state-certified sign (see example). A list of testing locations can be found by clicking here.

How much does an emissions test cost?

Per Georgia law, the testing fee may not be more than $25. Stations are independently owned and operated and determine the price they will charge.


Are there different types of tests? Yes, there are two types oftests performed in Georgia

On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) TestsAll 1996 and newer vehicles receive a three-part inspection: a visual inspection of the catalytic converter, an OBD test and a fuel cap inspection.Accelerated Simulation Mode (ASM2) TestsAll 1995 and older model year vehicles will receive a three-part inspection: a visual inspection of the catalytic converter, an ASM2 tailpipe exhaust emission test, and a fuel cap inspection.For more details, click here.

What if I own an alternative fueled vehicle?

Vehicles powered only by diesel fuel or that run exclusively on alternative fuel (natural gas, propane, etc.) are exempt from emissions testing. Dual-fuel vehicles must be inspected if one of the fuels burned is gasoline.For more details, click here.


What if my free retest has expired?

The free retest is valid for 30 calendar days, including the day and time of the first inspection. The retest must be used at the original inspection station. If the retest has expired, you will be required to pay for the next inspection.Note: Another emissions inspection station may perform the free retest at no charge, however it is up to the stations discretion as to whether or not to perform the retest.

What steps do I take if my vehicle has been impounded?

Pay the vehicles ad valorem tax and any additional fees.Take the tax receipt to the impound company, at which point the vehicle will be released.Have the vehicle towed from the impound lot to a testing station.Get the vehicle emissions tested.Return to the tag office for the new tag decal.


How do I get a refund?

GCAF does not have the authority to issue refunds because stations are independently owned and operated. Retests are required to be free at the original inspection station for 30 calendar days. The 30 days includes the day of the first inspection and expires at the time of day of the original test. If your original inspection stations equipment is down or if the station is closed, call 1.800.449.2471 or send an e-mail to [email protected] for assistance.Testing InformationHow Do I Get My Vehicle Tested?Slide *06.06.2014

What if I will be out of the area when my vehicles registration is due?

Vehicles can be tested well in advance if the driver will be out of the area at time the registration is due.A vehicle inspection report (VIR) is valid for one year.Contact your county tag office to determine if it will allow a registration renewal prior to the normal renewal period (if more than 60 days prior to the renewal date).Click here for more information.Testing InformationHow Do I Get My Vehicle Tested?Slide *06.06.2014

Where are the service centers located and what are thehours of operation?

GCAF has five full-time service centers located in Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton and Gwinnett counties. Part-time service centers are open in Cherokee, Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Henry, Paulding, and Rockdale counties. The hours of operation and driving directions to all service centers are listed on the GCAF website at www.cleanairforce.com. Additionally, GCAF partners with metro Atlanta tag offices to offer waiver services. We recommend contacting your local tag office to find out the services they offer.


How do I request a referee test?

If you question the test procedures, accuracy of the inspection equipment, or validity of the results, you may request a referee test within 15 calendar days of the disputed inspection if no repairs have been made to the vehicle (15 days includes the day of the first inspection). The referee test will be observed by a GCAF representative at a mutually agreeable time at the inspection station where your vehicle was tested. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the GCAF Call Center at 1.800.449.2471. Also, please report any offers to illegally pass a vehicle by calling the GCAF Call Center at 800.449.2471 or by sending an e-mail to [email protected] InformationHow Do I Get My Vehicle Tested?For additional testing information, please review the Question and Answer brochure, available at www.cleanairforce.com and at all certified testing facilities.Slide *06.06.2014

My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?

What Causes A Readiness Failure?What Causes A Non-Communication Failure?The "Check Engine" LightWhat Causes A NOx Failure?What Causes A HC Failure?What Causes A CO Failure?

My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?Slide *06.06.2014

Possible causes of a readiness failure include:

The failure could be the result of something preventing the vehicle from becoming Ready. You should check all wires, fuses, and the thermostat. All wires should be checked on any installed after market system (Ex: CD player, radio, security, navigation system, satellite radio, etc.). Check the thermostat for proper operating temperature. The failure could mean there is a recall, outstanding Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) or manufacturer extended warranty issue related to the vehicles emissions control system. Note: A diagnostic analysis should be performed using an OBD generic scan tool; be sure the scan tool is connected to the Data Link Connector (DLC) under the dash, not under the hood.My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?What Causes A Readiness Failure? For additional information on readiness, click here.Slide *06.06.2014

Possible causes of a non-communication failure include:

A failure could result from the data link connector (DLC) being blocked, missing or broken.

The failure could result from interference caused by or damage to a wire or fuse. You should check all wires and fuses. All wires should be checked on any after market system (E.g. CD player, radio, security, navigation system, satellite radio, etc). If a wire is interfering with the battery or OBD computer, it could damage or interfere with the connection to the OBD computer.

The failure could mean there is a recall, outstanding TSB, or manufacturer extended warranty issue related to your vehicles emissions control system. Continued My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?What Causes A Non-Communication Failure?Slide *06.06.2014

Possible causes of non-communication failure include(cont'd):

Note: A diagnostic analysis should be performed using an OBD generic scan tool; be sure the scan tool is connected to the DLC under the dash, not under the hood.

If a mechanic is able to communicate using generic OBD scan tool, contact GCAF at [email protected] or call the GCAF Call Center at 1.800.449.2471 for further assistance. You are required to provide documentation from your mechanic stating all of the above have been checked.My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?What Causes A Non-Communication Failure? For additional information on non- communication, click here.Slide *06.06.2014

The Check Engine light may illuminate indicating something as minor as a loose fuel cap or as major as an emission control component failure.

Your Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) will list the first five Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) indicating the general area of the emissions control system failure.

My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?The Check Engine LightIf a DTC listed on the VIR indicates a fault within the vehicles evaporative system, you should tighten the fuel cap until it clicks and drive the vehicle for a few days to see if the OBD system turns off the Check Engine light. Tip: tighten the fuel cap until it clicks and drive for a few days.Slide *06.06.2014

A transmission code that turns on the Check Engine light is directly related to the vehicles emissions control system.

A vehicles on-board computer will illuminate the Check Engine light if a problem with the transmission is detected. A diagnostic analysis will help identify the transmission component(s) needing repair.

If the Check Engine light is flashing, the vehicle should be serviced immediately to avoid costly damage to the vehicles main emissions control component the catalytic converter.

My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?The Check Engine Light For additional information on the "Check Engine" light, click here.Slide *06.06.2014

Possible causes of NOx failure include:

A faulty or clogged EGR system and/or EGR valveIncorrect ignition timingIncorrect fuel pressureA broken or leaky vacuum hoseA faulty mass air flow sensorOld coolant/antifreezeFaulty oxygen sensor(s)A faulty or malfunctioning thermostat

You should seek a repair facility for assistance. You are encouraged toview the RepairWatch Public Report to find a qualified emissions repairshop in your area. The report can be found at any inspection station oron the GCAF website atwww.cleanairforce.com.My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?What Causes A NOx Failure?Slide *06.06.2014

Possible causes of a hydrocarbon (HC) failureinclude:

Faulty spark plugs and plug wiresFaulty oxygen sensor(s)A faulty mass air flow sensorA faulty EGR systemClogged or leaking fuel injectors or carburetorIncorrect ignition timing

You should seek a repair facility for assistance. You are encouraged toview the RepairWatch Public Report to find a qualified emissions repairshop in your area. The report can be found at any inspection station oron the GCAF website at www.cleanairforce.com.My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?What Causes An HC Failure?Slide *06.06.2014

Possible causes of a carbon monoxide (CO) failureinclude:

Faulty oxygen sensor(s)A faulty mass air flow sensorA faulty PCV valveA clogged air filterIncorrect ignition timingFaulty fuel pressureA dirty fuel injection/carburetorA vacuum and/or exhaust leak

You should seek a repair facility for assistance. You are encouraged toview the RepairWatch Public Report to find a qualified emissions repairshop in your area. The report can be found at any inspection station oron the GCAF website at www.cleanairforce.com.My Vehicle Did Not Pass. Why?What Causes A CO Failure?Slide *06.06.2014

Repairing My Vehicle

Where Should I Go For Repairs?Repair IssuesRepair Shop ComplaintsRepair Assistance Knowledge BaseTSB/Recall Notification ListHow Do I Get My Vehicle Retested?

Repairing My VehicleSlide *06.06.2014

Check to see if your vehicle is covered by a manufacturers emissions control warranty. If the vehicle is under warranty, you should take it to an authorized dealer. If the vehicle is not under warranty, you should find a qualified emissions repair shop to make the necessary repairs.

You are encouraged to view the RepairWatch Public Report to find a qualified emissions repair shop in your area. You can find the report at any emission inspection station or on the GCAF website at www.cleanairforce.com.

Repairing My VehicleWhere Should I Go For Repairs?Slide *06.06.2014

Note: GCAF recommends that you obtain a written estimate for any work before authorizing your repair technician to proceed.

Be sure you or your mechanic completes the Emissions Repair Form you received when your vehicle failed. The completed Emissions Repair Form and original Georgia Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) are required when the vehicle is retested. Repairing My VehicleWhere Should I Go For Repairs?Slide *06.06.2014

What if I cannot locate a part?

You should check local salvage yards, as well as the following websites* for the unavailable part:www.autozone.com www.advanceautoparts.com www.pepboys.com www.partstrain.com You can find additional places in the Yellow Pages, under Auto Parts New.If all attempted efforts to locate the part have failed, then contact 1-800-449-2471. Attempts to locate parts must be documented. Please note: it is illegal to install a used catalytic converter. You are encouraged to pay the vehicles ad valorem tax while searching for the part.Repairing My VehicleRepair Issueswww.autop.com www.carparts.comwww.jcwhitney.com Slide *06.06.2014*This is not a complete list. Further research may be needed.

=What if I am dissatisfied with the work of my repair facility?

GCAF does not regulate the repair industry; however, GCAF suggests that you file a complaint with your repair facility/dealership or contact the Better Business Bureau, the Governors Office of Consumer Protection, or the Secretary of States office.Repairing My VehicleRepair Shop ComplaintsSlide *01.01.2014

Georgia's Clean Air Force offers two resources to research repair issues:

Repair Assistance Knowledge Base - A list of recalls, Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), warranties and Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

TSB/Recall Notification List - A list of recent Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and recalls. Repairing My Vehicle Repair Assistance Knowledge Base and TSB/Recall Notification ListSlide *06.06.2014

vFor every paid test, you are allowed one free retest. View retest requirements. Bring the completed Emissions Repair Form to the retest location. You will need to make a copy of the Repair Form if you want one for your records. The emissions station will keep this form.If you need a copy of your most recent VIR, you can print a copy of your VIR via the GCAF website, www.cleanairforce.com. All you need is your vehicle identification number (VIN). Repairing My VehicleHow Do I Get My Vehicle Retested?Slide *06.06.2014

In This Section:

Passing VIR Not AvailableNon-Emissions County Purchase/Non-Covered CountyBuyer Lives In A Non-Covered CountyOut-Of-State SellerAs-Is ClauseComplaint Process

Vehicle SalesSlide *06.06.2014

Vehicle SalesPassing VIR Not Available**Covered counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding, and Rockdale.Slide *06.06.2014What if I purchased a vehicle that does not have a passing Georgia Vehicle Emissions Inspection Report (VIR).

Prior to purchasing a used vehicle, you should look up the VIN, via the Georgias Clean Air Force (GCAF) website, to see if the vehicle has a passing VIR.*If you purchase a used vehicle from a seller located within the 13-county testing area and plan to register the vehicle in a covered county,** the vehicle must havea passing VIR from the last 12 months. Within 12 months, a vehicle may be sold numerous times using the same valid VIR.

What if I purchased a vehicle that does not have a passingVIR.(cont'd)

Sellers are not required to provide the buyer with a hard copy of the VIR. The VIR will be on record electronically at the tag office. If you would like a hard copy of the VIR, a free copy can be obtained from the GCAF website at www.cleanairforce.com or at any GCAF Customer Service Center.

Vehicle SalesPassing VIR Not AvailableSlide *06.06.2014

I purchased a vehicle in a non-emissions county.

The seller is not responsible for selling a vehicle with a current, valid passing Georgia Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) if the seller is not located in the 13-county testing area. Vehicle SalesNon-Emissions County Purchase*Covered counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding, and Rockdale.Slide *06.06.2014

What if I live in a county that does not require emissions testing?

If the buyer is located in a county that does not require emission testing, the seller is not responsible for selling a vehicle with a current, valid passing Georgia Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR).

What if I purchased a vehicles from an out-of-state seller?

He or she is not responsible for selling a vehicle with a current, valid passing Georgia VIR.

Vehicle SalesBuyer Lives In A Non-Covered County and Out-Of-State Seller*Covered counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding, and Rockdale.Slide *06.06.2014

I purchased a vehicle As Is; what does that mean?Vehicles sold As Is are just that - as is; however:Georgia law requires a vehicle to have a valid, passing emissions inspection at the time of sale if the vehicle will be registered in a covered county and if the seller is located in the 13-county testing area.A valid, passing emissions inspection is required to register a vehicle in any of the 13 metro Atlanta counties, therefore emissions inspections are not subject to the As Is clause. The Georgia Secretary of States Office requires the seller provide the buyer with the necessary paperwork to register and tag a vehicle within 30 days of sale (seven days if purchased from a private seller).

Vehicle Sales"As Is ClauseSlide *06.06.2014*Covered counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding and Rockdale.

What is the process for filing a complaint against a seller?

Visit the GCAF website and download the Used Vehicle Sale Complaint Form. Submit the completed form with the requested documentation (a bill of sale and affidavit are required documentation). GCAF will investigate the case and contact you after the investigation is completed.

Note: The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) encourages you to seek resolution with the seller prior to filing a Used Vehicle Sale Complaint.Vehicle SalesComplaint ProcessSlide *06.06.2014

In This Section:

Late RegistrationsEarly RegistrationsMoved To A Covered County From A Non-Covered CountyTest Not On File At Tag OfficeData Errors

Registration ScenariosSlide *06.06.2014

What if I am late registering my vehicle?

If the vehicle has not been registered for several years and is registering late for the previous year, the vehicle will need to be tested now for the late renewal and tested again before the renewal for the current year.

If the vehicle has not been registered for several years and is registering for the current year, the vehicle will only need to be tested once to return it to the regular testing schedule. It is the tag offices discretion as to what is required for late registration. Please contact your tag office for information regarding registration.

Registration ScenariosLate RegistrationsSlide *06.06.2014

Can I test and register my vehicle early?

Yes, a Georgia Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) is valid for 12 months or one registration renewal, by the same owner. Georgias Clean Air Force (GCAF) recommends you test your vehicle four to six weeks prior to the registration renewal date; however, you may have the vehicle tested earlier if needed. To test early, the emissions inspector will need to select the option to test At Motorists Request.You should contact your tag office to determine if it will allow a registration renewal prior to your normal renewal period (more than 60 days before your registration renewal date).

Registration ScenariosEarly RegistrationsSlide *06.06.2014

I recently moved into a county that requires emission tests; what do I need to do?

You must have your vehicle tested and registered within 30 days.

If you just moved to one of the 13 covered counties from a Georgia county where emissions testing is not required and your vehicle has a current Georgia registration, a valid emissions certificate will not be required until your registration renewal due date.

Registration ScenariosMoved To A Covered County From A Non-Covered CountySlide *06.06.2014

What if my test is not on file at my county tag office?

If your vehicles test record is not on file, your vehicle's information, the vehicle identification number (VIN), was entered incorrectly during testing.The inspector must retest the vehicle and correct the issue at no cost to you. Registration ScenariosTest Not On File At Tag OfficeSlide *06.06.2014

What if the inspector entered the data for my vehicle incorrectly.

If the VIN, mileage or any of the vehicle information is entered incorrectly, the inspector is to retest the vehicle and correct the issue at no cost to you.

Registration ScenariosData ErrorsFor additional information on your rights, please review the Motorists Rights poster posted at www.cleanairforce.com and certified testing facilities.Slide *06.06.2014

Resources At Your Fingertips

GCAF WebsiteGCAF Customer Service CentersGCAF Call CenterQuestion & Answer BrochureRegistration Renewal InsertForeign Language DocumentsMotorist Rights PosterHealth Benefits Poster

Resources At Your FingertipsGCAF Website and GCAF Customer Service CentersSlide *06.06.2014

Georgia's Clean Air Force (GCAF) offers numerousresources to assist you with the emissions testing process.

GCAF Website CleanAirForce.comFind Program information, applications, online VIR reprints, station locations, GCAF Service Center locations, tag office locations, etc.

GCAF Customer Service Centers GCAF offers waivers, extensions, and exemptions assistance at multiple locations throughout metro Atlanta. Click here for a full listing of locations and additional useful information.

Resources at Your Fingertips

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GCAF Call Center1.800.449.2471, option 1Asistencia disponible en Espaol

Question & Answer Brochure Q&A brochures are available at all certified testing locations to assist motorists with failing vehicles.Registration Renewal Inserts are mailed by your county tag office to explain how to get started. Note: Brochures and inserts are available online.

Resources at Your FingertipsGCAF Call Center, Q&A Brochure and Registration Renewal InsertSlide *06.06.2014

Foreign language documents Literature available online at www.cleanairforce.com in Spanish, Korean and Vietnamese.

Motorists Rights Poster Outlines your rights during the emission emissions testing process (see example).

Health Benefits Poster Outlines the health benefits of emission emissions testing.Resources at Your FingertipsForeign Language Documents, Motorist Rights Poster and Health Benefits Poster

Slide *06.06.2014

Thank YouGeorgia's Clean Air Force

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Georgia's Clean Air Force An Overview for the Motoring Public

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