Question: Will a car pass emissions with a pending code?
Answer: Generally, yes. As long as there are no other issues, your car should still pass an emissions test with a pending code.
Pending codes indicate that there might be a problem, but they don’t cause your check engine light (CEL) to come on. These codes suggest that your vehicle’s computer needs to run more diagnostics to determine if the issue is serious—and trigger the CEL. Pending codes can either resolve on their own, if the issue doesn’t recur, or escalate into soft or hard codes.
- Hard codes: These codes indicate a definite issue that needs attention. They cause the CEL to illuminate continuously until the problem is fixed.
- Soft codes: These codes can also cause the CEL to illuminate, but only under certain conditions, such as after refueling or when accelerating. Still, soft codes do indicate that your vehicle has a maintenance issue.
The impact of codes on emissions testing
Emissions tests typically measure your vehicle’s exhaust emissions and ensure its onboard diagnostic (OBD) system is functioning correctly. During an emissions test, the inspector will connect to the OBD system to look for trouble codes.
- Pending codes and emissions tests: Since pending codes don’t trigger the CEL, they usually don’t affect the outcome of an emissions test. The vehicle’s OBD system may still be in a “ready” state for the test, and the exhaust emissions may still be within acceptable limits.
- Hard and soft codes: If your car has a hard or soft code, the CEL will be on, and the vehicle’s OBD system may not be in a “ready” state. This can lead to a failed emissions test, as these codes indicate that there is a confirmed issue that must be addressed.
What to do before an emissions test
- Check for codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any pending, soft, or hard codes. If you have a pending code, monitor it to see if it resolves or escalates to a soft or hard code.
- Complete a full drive cycle: This includes using your car in various conditions, like idling, acceleration, and steady cruising. This helps the vehicle’s OBD system complete its diagnostics and determine if the issue is persistent.
- Repair known issues: If your CEL is illuminated, take your car to the mechanic before your emissions test. You might need to make simple fixes, like replacing a leaky gas cap, or more extensive repairs.
- Seek regular maintenance: Adhering to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule keeps it running efficiently and helps catch potential issues—that could cause emissions test failures—early. Regular maintenance includes:
- Regular oil changes
- Air filter replacements
- Fuel and exhaust system checks
- Tire maintenance
- Battery and battery cable maintenance
Sarah Gray is an insurance writer with nearly a decade of experience in publishing and writing. Sarah specializes in writing articles that educate car owners and buyers on the full scope of car ownership—from shopping for and buying a new car to scrapping one that’s breathed its last and everything in between. Sarah has authored over 1,500 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from first-time buyer programs to how to get a salvage title for a totaled car. Prior to joining Jerry, Sarah was a full-time professor of English literature and composition with multiple academic writing publications.
Alice Holbrook is an editor with more than a decade of experience covering personal finance, including car insurance. She\’s passionate about creating easy-to-understand content that demystifies intimidating topics for readers. Previously, she worked for NerdWallet, and her work has been featured by Newsweek, The Washington Post and the Associated Press, among others.
