Colorado makes vehicle emissions inspections easier to pass

Colorado is simplifying the visual inspection part of its vehicle emissions testing program. This means fewer checks for things like missing gas caps or catalytic converters, making it easier for cars to pass and renew their registration.

For years, vehicle inspection programs have included visual checks for emissions equipment. These checks were meant to catch obvious tampering or broken parts. This change means Colorado is betting that the actual emissions test is enough to catch problems, and that visual checks are an unnecessary burden for drivers.