Car Failed MOT on Exhaust Emissions Test

[sam0790]

Hi Guys,

New to the Forum,

I Put my car through its MOT this morning and it has failed on the Fast Idle Test

The readings came back as follows:

1st Test

LIMITS ACTUAL VALUE
CO: Max 0.300% 0.500% FAIL
HC: Max 200 ppm 112 ppm PASS
Lambda: 0.970 - 1.030 1.089 ppm FAIL

2nd Test

LIMITS ACTUAL VALUE
CO: Max 0.300% 0.526% FAIL
HC: Max 200 ppm 112 ppm PASS
Lambda: 0.970 - 1.030 1.165 ppm FAIL

Any ideas as to what the first port of call should be? I haven't changed oil or oil filter for over 6000 miles (the car is a vauxhall corsa, 98 reg, 1.4L - 69,000 miles).

Would this be worth doing and then putting in for a re-test before going to a garage and getting them to look at it?

Thanks

[Winky151]

I always do the service the week before the MOT on my wifes Corsa (03) but also ensure the cats are fully warmed up. How long a drive is it to the MOT station from your house? It may just need an 'Italian tune up'.

Just re-read your post & see the Lambda failed - that appears to be your problem. I'd guess a lambda from a motor factors would be about £40-£50 for your car & fit yourself.

Edited by Winky151 on Thursday 24th July 17:33

[trashbat]

MOT lambda is a calculated value and not anything to do with the lambda sensor on the car.

As said, get the cat really hot and retest. Or the cat's knackered but I don't know how much a replacement would be, maybe uneconomical. Cataclean or some st is possible bit I've never tried it.