Yet another reason to get that oxygen sensor of yours fixed. Steve Lipsher of the Denver Post reported, December 26, that Denver drivers identified as polluters will subject to test and repairs or fines.

According to the report, the city of Denver, Colorado is planning to use RapidScreen vans to spot polluters. The action is said to be part of Denver’s strategy to reduce air pollution in its metropolitan area. The step is also in line with the city’s plan to pass federal air quality standards which the region failed last summer.

The RapidScreen vans, originally intended to identify “low pollutants,” will fire an ultra violet and infrared light beam past your car’s tailpipe. The lights will measure for absorption of hydrocarbon, nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide. The vans will be stationed in different areas around the metro and will record the plate number of violators. The city would then send letters to the violators requiring them to undergo free emission test. 

Faulty parts that commonly cause air pollution are oxidation catalysts, spark plugs and wires and oxygen sensors. According to the Denver Post carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emission in the city was reduced to 80%. The DP also claims that around 500 cars were repaired for free due to federal budget backing.

Car owners who violate the program will be fined for $100 and will not be entertained for registration renewal. Denver drivers still have a chance to fix their car’s emission problems since the program will start by January 1 next year.

As there is much progress with the world’s technology, the environment has been continuously suffering from the pollution that comes along with it. There is only one livable planet in the solar system and for this reason, it is of vital importance that we take care of it. There is no other place we can go to if this earth becomes unlivable like the other planets.

Rich White, the executive director of an online organization that gives advice on automotive maintenance, has given five preventive maintenance steps on how one can achieve a “greener car” that is friendly to the environment.

The first and the most important step is to keep one’s car properly tuned. This will enable the car to perform well for a well-tuned engine has the capacity to promote fuel economy. Aside from this, a well-tuned engine also produces the lowest level of emissions. The typical tune-up in the 21^st century includes the following system checks: battery, charging, starting, engine mechanical, powertrain control, fuel, ignition, and emissions. Having one’s car undergo regular tune-ups improve on gas mileage by around 4 percent and having to fix a serious maintenance problem, like a worn down oxygen sensor can improve on gas mileage by over 40 percent.

Not only does a properly tuned engine able to optimize gas consumption, it also helps one keep the planet livable. Maintaining a car in good condition does not only serve to benefit the car owner with a good running car but it also helps in having breathable air for generations to come.