Experiencing a vehicle inspection failure can be frustrating, especially when it comes to OBD2 monitor readiness. In Massachusetts, like many other states, your vehicle needs to have its OBD2 system monitors in a “ready” state to pass the inspection. A recent personal experience highlights how clearing a check engine light (CEL) on a 2010 Sprinter van can lead to an unexpected inspection hurdle related to these monitors.
The issue began with a persistent CEL on a 2010 Sprinter, triggered by faulty glow plugs. While this issue didn’t prevent the van from running, it would cause an automatic inspection failure in Massachusetts. To work around this, the strategy was to schedule the inspection in August, hoping the warmer weather would minimize the need for glow plugs during startup and temporarily avoid the CEL. This approach sometimes worked, allowing the van to pass inspection.
However, on one occasion, attempting to pass inspection immediately after clearing the CEL using an OBD2 reader backfired. Despite the absence of the CEL, the inspection failed due to “I/M not ready” status for two monitors. This happened because clearing the codes with an OBD2 reader also resets the OBD2 system monitors, setting them to an “not ready” state. These monitors need to complete their diagnostic cycles after a reset to return to a “ready” status. The inspection technician advised driving the vehicle to allow the monitors to reset.
Initially, driving around town proved insufficient to reset the monitors. Following the technician’s suggestion, a highway drive was undertaken. This highway driving session successfully reset one of the I/M monitors, specifically the EGR monitor. Returning for a re-inspection, the 2010 Sprinter passed with only one I/M monitor still in the “not ready” state, which is acceptable under Massachusetts inspection guidelines.
This experience underscores a crucial point for 2010 Sprinter owners and anyone dealing with OBD2 systems and vehicle inspections. Simply clearing a CEL light with an OBD2 reader before an inspection might lead to an “I/M not ready” failure. It’s essential to understand that OBD2 monitors require time and specific driving conditions to reset after codes are cleared. Using an OBD2 reader to check I/M monitor status before going for inspection can save time and prevent unexpected failures. Many OBD2 readers display I/M monitor readiness, allowing you to confirm if your 2010 Sprinter is truly ready for its inspection, ensuring a smoother and more successful process.
