Emissions and Age Distribution of Vehicles in the Colorado I/M Program - Winter 1989-1990

Vehicle age distribution is an important consideration when evaluating the effects of exhaust emissions. To quantify CO idle data from motor vehicles of different model year groupings and vehicle classifications, the Colorado Department of Health (CDH) reviewed emissions data from The Colorado Automobile Inspection and Readjustment (A.I.R.) Program.

Colorado's A.I.R. Program is presently in its 9th year and is considered a mature I/M (inspection maintenance) Program. (1) Program data from December 1989, January 1990 and February 1990 were studied to determine the mean % CO by vehicle class and model year group. Classes include: light duty, heavy duty and mixed light and heavy duty (fleet) vehicles. Model year groups include: 1974 and older, 1975-1980, 1981-1982, and 1983 and newer model year vehicles. The 10% highest CO emitting vehicles (by CO emission concentration) in these categories were also evaluated. In addition, percent equipment failure information is presented by classification and age group for all valid I-inspections (initial inspections) and the 10% highest CO emitting vehicles. Carbon monoxide emissions were analyzed using standard Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) '84 data obtained during a vehicle's normal emissions test (idle CO). This short test is designed to identify “gross emitting” vehicles which contribute a disproportionate amount of exhaust emissions into our environment and that are in need of adjustment or repair.