Texas State Inspection Practice

What action should be taken if a vehicle’s check engine light is illuminated?

1. The vehicle should be inspected as is

2. The issue must be diagnosed and repaired before passing inspection

3. A temporary fix may be allowed

4. The light can be ignored for inspection purposes

The correct answer is: The issue must be diagnosed and repaired before passing inspection

When a vehicle’s check engine light is illuminated, the appropriate action is to diagnose and repair the underlying issue before the vehicle can pass inspection. The check engine light serves as an indication that the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system has detected a malfunction or fault in the engine or associated systems. These malfunctions can range from minor issues to serious problems that can affect the vehicle's emissions, safety, and overall performance. In Texas, during a state inspection, any illuminated warning lights, including the check engine light, may lead to the vehicle being deemed unfit for passing the inspection. Therefore, it’s essential for the vehicle owner to first address and resolve the issue indicated by the check engine light. Once the necessary repairs have been made, the vehicle can then be re-inspected to ensure it meets all regulatory standards for safety and emissions. This approach is vital not only to comply with inspection requirements but also to ensure safe operation of the vehicle on the road. Other options suggest either proceeding with inspection without addressing the light, allowing for temporary fixes, or ignoring the light, all of which would not comply with the standard practices for ensuring the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Handling the check engine light appropriately leads to better maintenance of the vehicle and contributes to overall road