I've done some searching around and just wanted to try and confirm a few things. I'll most likely be moving to NC shortly and wanted to know a few things about the smog inspections up there. I read that on OBDII cars it's all done through the diagnostic port in most cases. My problem is that my Catalytic converter is bad, but the CEL has been bypassed. Will this pose any problems for inspection in NC? Here in FL you can pretty much do what ever you want, theres no inspections. I may just end up gutting my cat out if it wont cause any problems later on in NC. I've seen a aftermarket cat on eBay from "Random Technology" that claims to be both high flow and 50 state legal. Im really just trying to explore all my options before I move so in case it does have to be replaced I have some options.

 

(moved from the Accord forum ... more NC people in the Basement)

 

The CEL may be bypassed, but the car's computer will still set the codes. Most states are doing their emissions checks through the OBD-II port, which means that everything has to be 100%. If the CEL is (supposed to be) on for any reason...even a loose gas cap...you fail.

Gutting the cat in a state with emissions inspections is a guaranteed failure.

 

It takes two trip cycles for the CEL to trigger an error code. So reset it and drive to the shop.

Isn't your MPG pretty bad? Just buy a new cat (a real one).

 

What part of NC will you be moving to? Your best bet is to go ahead and get a new cat...a bad cat or a gutted cat will pose a problem. They won't pass you unless it's running properly.

 

My gas mileage is fine. I have no CEL and the ECU throws no codes. The CEL was once on with a P0420 code, but I did the spark plug un-fouler deal.

Ashville area.

 

Im more concerened if they sniff or not. If they dont and its all done through the diagnostic I wont have a problem. My friend passed inspection w/ sniffing with a full 3" greddy exhaust in Mass.