190e 2.3 failed emissions
 

190e 2.3 failed emissions, I do not have the original catalytic converter, but a midas one.

Do you think this might be the cause? Is there some way I can "cheat" on the emissions test by using a certain fuel or making an adjustment to the car?

Should I buy the fastlane catalytic converter for my car here? Do you think that will solve the problem for sure?

Btw, the dealer quoted me $1800 for a catalytic converter!! Why so expensive!!!?

Some say to run a couple of tanks of Chevron Techron, BG-44K, or something similar, then change plugs. Run premium fuel. The day you go in for the test, take car for an extended drive - get it good and warm and hope to have a tech examine it before it starts cooling down.

You may search the archives here. Folks who actually have to deal with this likely have more advise than what I've offered.

I personally would not spend $$$ on a high $$$ item like a cat converter until I tried the simple, less costly things.

FAILED?
 

What failed? can you be more specific? they should have given you a print out on what was tested and the limit. Post what happened and more help will come.

Yes, to give you good advice we need to know what failed and by how much it failed compared to the passing standard. This is usually detailed for you on the test results.

Depending on what failed, I usually tell my friends some of the following things:

1) Start running premium fuel for a few tanks.

2) Run some injector cleaner through the system at double strength. Or carb cleaner if the car is older.

3) Just before the test, change the oil and use a heavier weight oil if now using 10w30. Try 15W40 or 20W50 in summer time. During the oil change, add STP Oil Treatment to further thicken the oil.

4) As mentioned, if you haven't changed the plugs in awhile, do that.

The point is, you may not have a true catalytic convertor problem. The car may not be burning fuel properly, or it may be burning just enough oil to mess up the test. My suggestions are aimed at burning fuel properly and reducing oil consumption.

Ken300D

Run the tank down until the fuel light comes on. Put in two cans of dry gas and change the oil. Run the car on the highway to warm up and go for the inspection. Works every time. The McParts stores use to sell a product that helped pass emissions 90% of the time. It was repackaged dry gas with a fancy label guaranteeing a passed emissions test. It also sold for 5 times the cost of dry gas.

John

Emissions is a load of #$%^ in MD. I had 4 friends run through those stations with NO, YES--NO Emissions components on the cars, not even a cat, and passed!!