What is a Drive Clean test?

What is a Drive Clean test?

by | Jun 23, 2017 | Blog, Emission Test

An emissions test is an examination of the level of hazardous materials that are produced and discharged into the environment by a motor vehicle with a combustible engine.
In Ontario, some cars, trucks, vans, buses, and other motor vehicles need to pass something called a Drive Clean test in order to be officially licensed to drive on the roads.
Clean test
The results of a Drive Clean test will establish if your vehicle meets the Ontario emissions standards. If your vehicle does not pass the test, it is not legal to drive in on the road.

Where can you have a Drive Clean Test done on your vehicle?

Emission Test Brampton

If you are looking to have an emission test done on your vehicle in the Brampton area, you will need to go to a Drive Clean test station that has been authorized by the Ontario Ministry of Transport as well as the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.

Valvoline Express Care Brampton

The Valvoline Express Care Center in Brampton offers a fully certified Emissions Testing Center authorized by Ontario standards.
Why Choose Valvoline Express Care?
The Valvoline Express Care Centre is an excellent choice for you emissions test for many reasons, including:
• Speed and efficiency
• Earn points
• Pre-test executed
• Top of the line service and equipment
Speed and Efficiency
Valvoline Express Care Brampton is made up of a team of professionals dedicated to excellent customer service with a customer first mentality. With over 20 years experience in the automotive industry, they have cultivated and polished the emissions test process to make it as quick and easy for the customer as possible.
Earn Points
When you have an emissions test performed at the Express Care centre, you will earn points and discounts off other services simply by downloading the app.
Pre-test
Before the emissions test even gets underway, the professionals at Valvoline will perform and pre-test to make sure there are no issues that would result in a test failure.
In order to prevent your vehicle from failing the emissions test, a visual test will be done by a Valvoline staff member. This test is done to look for problems like:
• Smoke coming from the tailpipe or anywhere else on the vehicle
• Issues with the onboard computer that could prevent effective testing
• Problems with the fuel filler pipe
• Missing catalytic converter or gas cap
• Any other noticeable issues that may affect the outcome of the test
Top of the line Service and Equipment
Not only are the staff at the Express Care centre highly trained and experienced, the equipment they use for testing and other services is first-rate.
Emissions Test Process
After the pre-test has been completed, and there are no observable issues with your vehicle, the emissions test can begin.
The first step is to examine your vehicle’s on-board computer diagnostic system. This system is in charge of tracking the engine and emission system of your vehicle. This information is analyzed to determine if Ontario emissions standards are being met.
If no on-board diagnostic system is available, a tailpipe test will be carried out. This test will assess the levels of carbon-monoxide and hydrocarbons that are being produced. This is also known as a two-speed idle test.
How Often Should Emissions Tests Be Performed?
When you get your vehicle’s registration renewal forms sent to you, you will be informed at that time if an emissions test is needed.
You can also do an online search using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) here.
If your vehicle is 7 years old or more, the general rule is to have an emissions test performed every two years.

Brake repair Brampton: Do you need to change your brake fluid?

Brake repair Brampton: Do you need to change your brake fluid?

by | Mar 22, 2017 | Blog, brake fluid, Uncategorized

Is the fluid in your brake master cylinder reservoir too low? Did you know that moisture makes brake fluid deteriorate and cause your brakes not to work at all?
There are many reasons why your car or truck may be pulling to one side as you drive. If it’s because of a brake fluid leak, that would mean the remaining fluid is contaminated. This is a problem that shouldn’t go ignored. If you’re not changing brake fluid when recommended, you risk brake failure due to contamination, which leads to deterioration. If you can’t do the complete brake fluid flush yourself, you can do the next best thing – a fluid swap at Valvoline Express Care Brampton.
Brakes repair Brampton: do I need to change my brake fluid?
Good question. It all starts when the driver press on the brake pedal. If your brakes are hard to push, you have a problem. This means the brake fluid creates pressure which act against the rotors, bringing them in contact with the wheels. In doing so, it makes the car slow down and stop completely. As you well know, stopping a car produces a large amount of friction, so brake fluid delivers lubrication to all of the braking components as well. Because it works at high temperatures, your brake fluid will pick up contaminates (moisture, air and sludge) that reduce braking efficiency overtime. If there is not enough fluid in the system, then this will not happen.
You’re in safe hands with brakes repair Brampton. Our automotive specialists are here to reassure you that flushing the brake fluid out and bleeding the system so no air is locked is a pretty easy job. And one that can be done as part of your regular maintenance on your car.
Brakes repair Brampton – our recommendation
At brakes repair Brampton, we understand that if you don’t know anything about brake fluid, it can be a little bit intimidating. All you need to do is check your vehicles owner’s handbook. That being said, always use a fluid recommended that is listed (do not use silicone based brake fluids if your car needs regular brake fluid) in the owners’ manual.
Get your brakes flushed every 2 years at brakes repair Brampton
This includes a visual inspection of your brake fluid and a complete overview of the whole vehicle. Our technicians will remove the existing fluid, reduce moisture, and replace it with new, clean fluid. Better yet, we ensure brakes are at correct level and protect the brake fluid system from moisture and other debris.
Like all brake fluid, it needs to be clear or translucent. If the fluid is black or has a burnt smell, the vehicle may have internal damage. If you are experiencing issues with your brakes, come by brakes repair Brampton. We will be happy to assist you on your vehicle’s specific needs.
Be proactive with brakes repair Brampton                           
As your car’s most important safety feature, your brake system should never be neglected. A spongy or dropping brake pedal is a sure sign of a problem in the hydraulic system. The worst case scenario? If your brakes don’t work, it can reduce your ability to stop on the road (possibly leading to an accident).
Don’t let low brake fluid problems grow into something much bigger, and more serious. Replacing your brake fluid at brakes repair Brampton is the best way to keep your vehicle running great so you can remain safe while driving.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Emissions Testing Brampton: Looking To Pass The Drive Clean Test?

by | Dec 20, 2016 | Blog, emissions, emissions testing brampton

Your battery is dead and the cable isn’t long enough to reach. Even your check engine light is not illuminated.
Unfortunately, some common problems can make it impossible for vehicles to pass the emissions test. Don’t ignore the warning signs. When your car fails a smog check, get it to Valvoline Express Care Brampton as soon as possible. Our trusted technicians can diagnose and repair the problem so that you pass emissions testing with flying colors.

What exactly is the Ontario drive clean test?

Drive Clean is Ontario’s mandatory vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program that seeks to reduce smog-causing pollutants and its harmful effects on the air we breathe. Your car, truck and SUV must meet current emissions standards, before it can be licensed to drive on Ontario roads. Vehicles that fail the test must be repaired and retested. We offer Brampton Emission testing services to residents all over the GTA.

When do I need my car tested?

Once your vehicle is seven years old it will require the emissions test every two years. Larger vehicles, also referred to as “heavy-duty,” require the test every year once the vehicle becomes seven years old. Keep in mind, your vehicle will need to pass the emissions test before you can get your new license plate sticker.

Emissions testing Brampton can offer you:

The Pre-Test Process for Emissions Testing
A visual check will make sure there will be no issues to staff or testing equipment. This process includes: searching for missing catalytic converter and gas caps, defects in fuel filler pipe and other emission testing areas, on-board computer errors that would prevent the vehicle from being tested, visible smoke from the tailpipe and other key areas of the vehicle, and any additional problems that are visible and could affect the test.
Tail pipe testing
Depending on the vehicle you own, a clean air check requires different types of emissions tests. At emissions testing Brampton, we measure the carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions released out of the tailpipe.
Heavy duty vehicles testing
Some older vehicles may have the on-board system. Otherwise, we have other options for emissions testing. Emissions testing Brampton can test these vehicles by conducting a two-speed idle test (for gasoline vehicles), conducting an opacity test (depending if your vehicle is diesel), and scanning your OBD computer.
Opacity tests for diesel fueled vehicles
Required for heavy duty or diesel fuel vehicle, this test measures the smoke density by inspecting the vehicle’s exhaust.
At emissions testing Brampton, we make sure all systems on your car are healthy and working as they should. A computerized diagnostic test will help us monitor the vehicle’s emission system and engine. We then use this data to satisfy your vehicles exact needs.
With regular maintenance at emissions testing Brampton, you’re off to a good start in passing the emissions test! It’s crucial that you pass this mandated inspection if you want to continue driving your car. Failing or dodging emission testing can result in your being denied registration of your vehicle. What’s worse? You may rack up some hefty fines and legal penalties in Ontario.

Why choose emissions testing Brampton?

  • We provide a faster, more accurate emissions test that helps keep your car in better running condition (improve safety and even gas mileage).
  • We identify emissions systems problems for more effective repairs.
  • We reduce more harmful smog from vehicle emissions.
  • Getting your vehicle’s emission tested earns you points and discounts on other services (just download our Valvoline app).

Do what’s best for your vehicle and the environment by stopping at emissions testing Brampton – and we’ll set up you with a drive clean test. Our team is certified and authorized to perform Ontario emissions testing. We can pass your vehicle or help you repair your emission system if your vehicle fails. Keep your vehicle and the air you breathe clean.