Emissions Control & Environmental Compliance Flashcards
7 cards from real CTE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Emissions Control & Environmental Compliance flashcards as text
A stored DTC P0420 indicates a problem with which emissions system?
Answer: Catalytic converter efficiency below threshold (Bank 1)
P0420 is a generic OBD-II code indicating that the catalytic converter on Bank 1 is operating below its required efficiency threshold.
Which Clean Air Act amendment greatly expanded the EPA's authority to regulate hazardous air pollutants and set technology-based standards for major sources?
Answer: The 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments
The 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments significantly strengthened the EPA's authority, adding Title III for hazardous air pollutants and mandating stricter vehicle and stationary source standards.
In a CTE automotive program, proper disposal of used motor oil is required because improper disposal can result in which consequence?
Answer: Contamination of groundwater and soil, violating environmental regulations
Used motor oil contains heavy metals and hydrocarbons that can contaminate groundwater and soil, making improper disposal a violation of EPA and state environmental regulations.
What is the primary purpose of a NOx sensor in a diesel selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system?
Answer: Provide feedback to the ECU on NOx levels before and after the SCR catalyst
NOx sensors before and after the SCR catalyst allow the ECU to monitor reduction efficiency and adjust DEF injection accordingly.
Which refrigerant was phased out of automotive air conditioning systems in the U.S. due to its ozone-depleting properties under the Montreal Protocol?
Answer: R-12 (Freon)
R-12 (Freon, CFC-12) was phased out because it depletes the ozone layer; automotive systems transitioned to R-134a by 1996 and are now moving toward R-1234yf.
A CTE instructor is demonstrating an I/M (Inspection and Maintenance) emissions test. Which operating condition is typically required before a tailpipe test is valid?
Answer: The engine must be fully warmed up to normal operating temperature
A fully warmed-up engine ensures the catalytic converter is at operating temperature, providing accurate emissions readings during a tailpipe test.
Shops that handle refrigerants during vehicle A/C service must have technicians certified under which EPA regulation?
Answer: EPA Section 609
EPA Section 609 specifically regulates refrigerant handling during motor vehicle air conditioning service, requiring technician certification and proper recovery equipment.