Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did I not get a reading today when I drove by the Smart Sign?

A: If it is OR

or the road is wet enough that there is spray behind the cars...

The remote sensing computer perceives that there is increased uncertainty in the reading and turns the sign off until the situation is improved.

If it was dry and you did not get a reading...

There was either a technical problem

or

The computer perceived some uncertainty in your reading.

The software is written conservatively so if there is any doubt, we do not display a reading rather than displaying a wrong reading. After all, many drivers who use this ramp do so repeatedly and will obtain their readings sooner or later.

Q: What does a “GOOD” reading tell me about my car?

Q: What about “FAIR” or “POOR” readings?

A: It may be time for an engine checkup. Healthy older vehicles manufactured before 1975 may get “FAIR” readings; however, a “POOR” reading always means that your vehicle is in need of repair.

Q: What does it mean when the sign reads "$AVING YOU MONEY"?

A: This means that you are maintaining your vehicle in "GOOD" condition, and that by doing so you are increasing the fuel economy of your vehicle.

Having better fuel economy means getting better gas mileage, and getting better gas mileage means using less fuel to travel more miles, saving you money on gasoline!

Q: What does it mean when the sign reads "CO$TING YOU MONEY"?

A: This means that you are maintaining your vehicle in "FAIR" or "POOR" condition, and that by doing so you are decreasing the fuel economy of your vehicle.

Having inefficient fuel economy means getting worse gas mileage, and getting worse gas mileage means using more fuel to travel less miles, costing you money on gasoline!

To improve vehicles with inefficient fuel economy, repairs are usually needed to fix a problem with the emissions systems or quite possibly a larger problem with the vehicle. Prolonging repair to your vehicle may increase the cost of repair. You run the risk of increasing the repair cost to your vehicle the longer you wait to have it checked out and fixed to a better standard.

Q: What does it mean if my Smart Sign readings vary from day to day?

A: As a vehicle grows older, parts begin to wear out, causing variable carbon monoxide emissions. The Smart Sign simply measures and reports that variability. Most well maintained vehicles have “GOOD” readings every time.

Q: If I get my car tuned, will its Smart Sign readings improve?

A: In most cases of excessive emissions, YES! Basic repairs should resolve the problem. Studies have shown that such repairs often pay for themselves in just a few months with better gas mileage and overall performance improvements.

Q: What happens if a car gets a “POOR” reading and the motorist chooses to do nothing about it?

A: The Smart Sign program is for information only. It’s there to help motorists check their cars, keep them running and save money. Any action is left up to the motorist.

Q: How does the public benefit from such a program?

A: Benefits include fuel conservation and cleaner air. A “GOOD” reading usually indicates a healthy car maintained by a concerned motorist. “FAIR” or “POOR” readings suggest that there might be engine problems. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations about how to keep your car healthy and our air clean.

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This site was last updated October 3, 2003