Inspections & Emissions in Herndon

Vehicle Inspection Services at McLearen Shell

In certain states, routine safety inspections and emissions assessments are mandated for automobiles and trucks. At McLearen Shell, our Herndon team is not only well-equipped but also trained to execute these inspections. Our skilled technicians can also perform comprehensive multi-point inspections on your vehicles as required.

The inspection services we offer:

VA State Certified Emissions Repair Facility
A state-certified emissions repair facility is a privately owned motor vehicle repair establishment licensed to address emissions-related malfunctions. Such a repair facility must employ a CERT (Certified Emissions Repair Technician) who has successfully completed a state-mandated training program.

McLearen Shell takes pride in being a VA state certified emissions repair facility. You can contact us at 703-318-7744 or visit our establishment for emissions-related repairs and services.

VA State Certified Emissions Test Facility
Did you know that the Motor Vehicle Commission obliges you to undergo an annual emissions inspection for your motor vehicle? This essential testing is carried out through a network of privately owned (yet certified) auto repair shops, each bearing their official Test Center number.

As a VA state certified emissions test facility, we are fully qualified to conduct emissions testing for all eligible vehicles, irrespective of fuel type or model year. You are welcome to either visit our shop or call us to schedule an appointment.

VA State Inspection Station
VA state inspection stations are privately owned establishments, certified by the government, that administer state inspections across VA. McLearen Shell is recognized as an VA state inspection station. If you require a state inspection, we invite you to visit our auto shop or contact us at 703-318-7744.

Exhaust Related FAQs

What is a rough idle?

A rough idle describes a vehicle's engine with spark plugs that are not firing correctly when the vehicle is in park, with no gas applied. Most vehicles idle between 600 and 1,200 RPM and should hold their idle speed consistently.

Can you put any exhaust on any car?

Not every exhaust will fit every car. Compatibility isn't just about car make and model; engine specs, optional extras, and even trim levels can influence the fit. Make sure you consider not just the make and model, but also engine details, fancy extras, and even trim levels before getting your heart set on a shiny new system.

Why is smoke coming out of my tailpipe?

The most common reason for thick smoke coming out of your car's exhaust pipe is the fuel to air ratio in your engine is too rich. This means that the fuel injectors are either adding too much fuel or that the intake valves aren't letting enough air in. This is caused by a cracked or leaking fuel injector, a failing O2 sensor, or air filter that needs replacing.

Catalytic Converter FAQs

Can I drive with the catalytic converter light on?

A bad catalytic converter can increase your car's exhaust emissions, but it does not prevent you from driving. At McLearen Shell we know this is true. A clogged catalytic converter will eventually affect the performance of your vehicle in Herndon, Chantilly, Fairfax and Centreville. Exhaust gases will not escape easily and create an increase in exhaust gas pressure. The buildup in pressure can lead to high-cost repair bills in the future.

What can cause a catalytic converter light to come on?

A catalytic converter helps reduce harmful engine emissions from entering the air by breaking down the harmful byproduct of internal combustion into less-harmful compounds. If your catalytic converter isn't working properly the check engine light will come on. The most common causes for a catalytic convert warning light to display are a clogged, cracked or melted converter. Sometimes the problem isn't the catalytic converter at all but an exhaust leak letting gases out of the system before it reaches the converter.

What happens to your car after the catalytic converter gets taken?

Removing the catalytic converter has a dramatic impact on your vehicle's acoustics. A deep, loud roar replaces the engine's usual hum, intensifying as you accelerate. Additionally, expect rough transitions and sputtering sounds when shifting gears, indicating impaired performance and potential engine damage.

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