Changes in Ontario Drive Clean Program

Ontario's Drive Clean is a government-sponsored automotive emissions reduction program that went into force in April 1999. The program's original goal was to eliminate automobiles that emit significant particle pollutants, which contribute to smog and pollution. Due to the high amount of cars in that portion of the province, it only applies to vehicles registered in the southern regions of the area, from Windsor to Ottawa.

Before a vehicle's owner could renew their license plate, the scheme required light-duty cars weighing less than 4,500 kg (cars, SUVs, and light trucks) to pass an emissions test every two years. (vehicles manufactured on even years are tested on odd years, and cars manufactured on odd years are tested on even years). Vehicles built up to 1988 are exempt, as new vehicle emissions requirements took effect in 1989.  Diesel truck emissions test in Ontario is made mandatory now for cars. 

 

Since the program's inception, the minimum age for testing has been raised twice. Vehicles over seven years old must undergo emissions testing as of 2011. However, cars built before 1988 are exempt. The Ontario government announced the discontinuation of the Drive Clean program on September 28, 2018, in favor of focusing on heavy-duty vehicles; the move took effect on April 1, 2019.

 

The Drive Clean initiative also applies to heavy-duty trucks and buses. If the vehicle is more than a year old, it is tested once a year, and there is no age limit for testing; a 1975 diesel-powered truck or bus would be examined if it was still registered. A smog patrol crew monitors all cars on Ontario roadways for MOECC, and they can be stopped at any time and tested on the roadside. The Smog Patrol squad conducts roadside tests in vehicles equipped with mobile testing equipment. The Smog Patrol can also do a visual check to confirm that all emissions control equipment is in place and working correctly (tampering with or removing this equipment is a different offense from Drive Clean, but it falls under the same Regulation). By registering their automobiles to locations outside of the Drive Clean testing areas, some registrants avoid having to take an emissions test. It is illegal to evade an emissions test in this manner, resulting in a ticket or summons and the seizure of license plates.

 

Worldwide, people are taking necessary practical measures to control the prevailing situation. Vehicle manufacturers are working to solve this problem, as transportation contributes to emitting dangerous air in gas. One can also reduce their transport costs, such as fuel bills and vehicle tax, by choosing more environmentally friendly vehicles and using them more efficiently.  

 

Reach out to us for a diesel emissions test in Ontario with the latest industry-style equipment.