How to pass your Drive Clean test

Here is a bullet form list of tips I have collected that may help you pass your drive clean (emissions) test.

• Don't take the test on a very full or nearly empty gas tank
• Drive your car for at least 40 minutes before taking the test - get the rpms up a bit during that time
• Fill the tank with the ultra premium high octane stuff at least 3 times before going in for your test
• Get an oil change a week before taking the test
• Remove your air filter just before taking the test (replace immediately after)
• Maintain your vehicle well even when you aren't due for an emissions test
• BUT if you haven't done much maintenance on your vehicle, don't get a tune up in advance to pass the test. If you get a tune up ($400ish, depending on where you go) and you still fail - you are on the hook for more repair costs to meet the requirements of the Drive Clean program. If you skip the tune up, take the test and fail - the money you spend on the tune up AFTER the test goes towards the legislated spend limit for emissions issues.
  
  
  
  
• My most recent Drive Clean report said it was good for 12 months. So, since you know you will need the test on your birthday of the year your sticker expires - try to get your test done as early as possible in that 12 month period (way before your get the notice from the government). This way you can select the ideal weather for the test (see next point)
• Take the test on a nice day. Extreme cold temps are bad for engine efficiency and if your car is on the hairy edge of the limits - you will fail on a cold day.