Maintenance work
For vehicles with a regulated catalytic converter, the exhaust gas test is prescribed for the first time three years after the first approval date, and then every two years, during which the ignition timing and the efficiency of the catalytic converter are also checked. The sequence is: first the exhaust gas test, then the "main vehicle test". During the test, the vehicle is connected to an expensive tester in the workshop, whose printer summarizes the obtained measurement values as a test confirmation. If individual results do not correspond to the norm, there will be no positive conclusion about the test performed.
This check is carried out by branded and independent workshops, petrol stations, DEKRA and TUV. In our experience, the check is carried out fastest in a branded workshop. To save time, it should also be added that the Opel workshop always has the latest installation data available.
When checking exhaust gases, the exhaust system must be in working order, and there must be no secondary air entering the intake manifold. In addition, make sure that the air filter in your car is clean and the distance between the electrodes in the spark plugs is normal. In addition, you should arrive for the check with a warm engine and, if necessary, change the engine oil if the car has been driven for a long time in the winter for short distances. Fuel condensate that gets into the engine oil worsens the exhaust gas indicators.
Tip: If you always have your Vectra serviced at a workshop, then checking the exhaust is basically part of the scope of work offered by the service. Anyone who monitors the working condition of their car themselves should think about this themselves, too – that's why this maintenance item is mentioned.
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