I just came back from the local dmv and smog station and now I need some advice.
I was in such a hurry to complete the registration process that I tried to smog my newly purchased used vehicle while the check engine light was still on (big mistake). Now my truck is listed as a "gross polluter".

It seemed to run fine so I didn't think anything of the light and I didn't ask the smog attendant if smogging while the check engine light was on was the right thing to do, or fix the problem first (Second big mistake). I guess they can tell you if you ask, but they are not allowed to offer the advice. [:@]

Anyway, there are two engine codes that I have to research and correct before I can try again.

They are P1281 and P0455

Does anybody have any ideas what these are for and how can I fix them without taking it to the shop?

Thanks for any advice.

 

P1281 Engine Is Cold Too Long Engine coolant temperature remains below normal operating temperatures during vehicle travel (thermostat)

change your thermostat.



P0455 (M) Evap Leak Monitor Large Leak Detected A large leak has been detected in the evaporative sysem.


I would check the black canister by the gas tank and see if any hoses have came off. and check your gas cap.



how bad did it fail? mine failed last year and I did a tune up and changed the O2 sensors and it passed.

 

I must have failed bady, since it is now a "Gross Polluter".
I hope I can remove that label. Is itnow part of thepermanant record?

I can provide specs if you are interested.
HC is high (156), CO is not bad, NO is very high (2487). Max NO is 508

Will fixing the fault code items cure this vehicle?

Thanks for your assistance!

 

If you get the above mentioned items fixed, you will be fine.