Coming Soon: Pass/Fail OBD Inspections for 1996 and Newer

Starting October 1, 2007 all 1996 and newer model year vehicles, subject to testing, must pass the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD II) inspection. New Hampshire incorporated OBD II inspections into the safety inspection program beginning in May 2005 as a requirement of the Federal Clean Air Act. The program enables licensed inspection stations to perform OBD II inspections and allows the state to comply with Environmental Protection Agency regulations.

All 1996 and newer model year light-duty gasoline-fueled and 1997 and newer diesel-fueled passenger vehicles (8500 lbs GVWR and less) registered in New Hampshire are emission tested as part of the annual Safety Inspection as regulated by statute.

An economic hardship waiver is available for people who cannot afford to make the repairs to their vehicle within 60 days of rejection of their initial inspection. The waiver allows the vehicle owner to have until the following years’ inspection to make OBD II repairs. The waiver application can be obtained by calling (603) 271-0352.

Modern vehicles emit less air pollution than older vehicles due to new engine management technology and emission control equipment, but these cars are only cleaner if all emission control systems operating properly. The OBD II system can often detect a vehicle malfunction before the driver becomes aware of the problem. Early detection and repair of malfunctions will result in fewer emissions.

On-Board Diagnostics systems were developed to help repair technicians identify problems associated with the computerized engine systems of modern vehicles. Federal law requires states that do not meet federal air quality standards to implement an OBD II inspection program to ensure that emissions control equipment is operating correctly. Part of the OBD II inspection includes verifying that the "Check Engine" or "Service Engine Soon" lights are not illuminated on the vehicles dashboard.

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) L-1 certified technicians are OBD II trained and should be sought for OBD II repairs.