Ensuring the air we breathe is clean is a community effort, and in Albuquerque-Bernalillo County, the Air Care Plus Program plays a vital role in this mission. This program is dedicated to managing motor vehicle pollution, a significant contributor to air quality concerns in the region. Understanding your responsibilities under the Air Care Plus Program is crucial for every vehicle owner in the area.
What is the Air Care Plus Program?
The Air Care Plus Program, overseen by the Vehicle Pollution Management Division (VPMD), is designed to reduce air pollutants from vehicles operating in Albuquerque-Bernalillo County. Established in 1983, the program directly addresses ground-level ozone by ensuring vehicles meet specific emission standards. The VPMD not only manages vehicle emissions testing but also maintains the Air Care Database, offers essential training and certification for Air Care Inspectors, and provides comprehensive support to over 130 Air Care Inspection Stations across the county. This network of stations makes compliance convenient and accessible for residents.
Air Care Station Locations and Costs
With over 130 certified Air Care Stations throughout Albuquerque-Bernalillo County, finding a testing location is straightforward. These stations are easily identifiable by their official signage, which must clearly display their testing fees. It’s important to note that these fees are set by individual stations and typically range between $15 and $25, excluding tax. This competitive pricing ensures affordability while maintaining the program’s effectiveness.
Vehicle Emission Testing: Who, When, and Why?
Vehicle emissions testing is a cornerstone of the Air Care Plus Program because motor vehicles are a primary source of ground-level ozone in Albuquerque-Bernalillo County. If you register or commute with your motor vehicle in this area, including gas-electric hybrid vehicles, emissions testing is mandatory. This requirement applies to all vehicles from 1990 and newer, weighing under 10,001 lbs.
The validity of a passing emissions test varies depending on the vehicle type, lasting for either 1 or 2 years. Specifically, gas-electric hybrid vehicles must undergo testing every two years. Any certified Air Care Station is equipped to test hybrid vehicles, simplifying the process for hybrid owners. Furthermore, an emissions test is also necessary when a vehicle changes ownership, ensuring all vehicles on the road meet the required standards.
For detailed information on procedures for vehicles that are out of state or temporarily unavailable for testing, you can Learn more here.
Are There Vehicles Exempt from the Air Care Plus Program?
Yes, certain vehicle categories are exempt from mandatory emissions testing under the Air Care Plus Program. These include:
- New vehicles purchased from a dealership or manufacturer, for the first 4 years from initial MVD registration, provided they remain with the original owner.
- Dedicated electric vehicles that produce zero tailpipe emissions.
- Diesel vehicles.
- Vehicles exclusively used for legally sanctioned competition.
- Farm equipment.
- Vehicles not operated on public streets and highways.
- Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,001 lbs. or more.
These exemptions are in place for practical reasons, focusing the program’s resources on vehicle types that contribute most significantly to air pollution.
What Happens During an Emissions Test?
Certified Air Care Inspectors perform a series of tests, tailored to your vehicle’s age, to ensure compliance with the Air Care Plus Program standards. These tests may include:
- Pollution control equipment test: Verifies the presence and connection of catalytic converter components, crucial for reducing harmful emissions.
- Visible emissions test: Checks for signs of burning oil or incomplete fuel combustion, which result in toxic particulate emissions.
- Gas cap pressure test: Ensures the gas cap is sealing properly to prevent vapor leaks, contributing to cleaner air.
- Diagnostic test: Evaluates the functionality of the vehicle’s onboard emissions control system, identifying potential issues.
- Tailpipe exhaust test: Measures the levels of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions released from the tailpipe, directly assessing the vehicle’s exhaust pollutants.
These comprehensive tests ensure that vehicles operating within Albuquerque-Bernalillo County are doing their part to minimize air pollution.
VPMD Headquarters: Your Resource for Failed Emissions Tests
The VPMD provides valuable support for vehicle owners, including a free retest at their headquarters for vehicles that initially fail an emissions test. This free retest is available within 90 days of the initial failed test date. Simply bring your failed test report and vehicle to VPMD Headquarters for your retest. For any questions, you can reach out to the VPMD via email at [email protected] or by phone at 505-764-1110.
Further Resources
- Out-of-State Vehicles: Learn more about out-of-state vehicle testing requirements.
- Report a Smoking Vehicle: Help improve air quality by reporting smoking vehicles. The VPMD will contact the vehicle owner to encourage inspection.
- Own an Air Care Inspection Station: Become a certified Air Care Inspection Station. Find out how to own an inspection station.
- Become an Air Care Inspector: Join the ranks of over 500 active inspectors. Get information for current and future Air Care Inspectors.
By participating in the Air Care Plus Program, you are contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment in Albuquerque-Bernalillo County. Ensure your vehicle is tested and help us all breathe easier.
