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Flying Colors

March 31st, 2008 admin No comments

Flying Colors
I have a 1990 prizm w/ 195000 miles it passed smog with flying colors does that mean the engine is good.?

They Call Me Vic:
You previously selected me for 'best answer' so I will provide another response.

Yes, good smog numbers do mean that the engine is solid.

However, a few questions, what were the numbers and how do you know they are good?

Low CO% means that the engine has good fuel control. This is the computer controlled sensors including mass air flow, fuel pressure, pressure regulator, knock, temperature and others.

Low HC numbers mean that engine compression (valves and rings) is good and, tune up is good. This is the plugs, wires, distributor cap, rotor, pcv valve and air filer.

Lox NOW numbers means that the cat converter, cooling system and EGR valve are working well. Also the fuel filter is not restricted, which causes a lean burn condition and elevates this gas.

Any smog tech can read the report and tell you the above information. Interpreting the smog report is that obvious to someone who really understands the numbers.

That being said, the car could still have issues. For example, if there is an oil leak, that will usually not show up in smog. The timing belt, tensioner and water pump all require preventive maintenance. On a '90 Prizm, the change interval is about 70K miles.

Like the other poster said, still need to do your oil changes on regular basis. Keep coolant fresh, replace vacuum hoses, electric wires, grounds, anything that shows wear. The car will keep going with this care.

The 1.6L they use is typically good for at least 300K miles if taken care of. These Toyota engines are about as good as they get.
Take care,
Marc