FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
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CLEAN AIR AND SAVING MONEY GO HAND IN HAND

 (RENO, Nev.) –The Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety (DMV&PS), through 686-SMOG, reminds drivers a well maintained vehicle not only saves money and improves vehicle performance, but also results in a positive effect on residents’ health and air quality.

Vehicles emitting visible smoke cost drivers money, pollute the air and can cause serious health problems.  Visible exhaust is a sign a vehicle needs repair, and without necessary repairs it could result in higher operating costs including frequent repairs, replacement of parts such as filters and lower gas mileage causing drivers to fill up more often.    

Vehicles emitting visible emissions could be costing drivers dollars and are indications of serious maintenance problems, including: clogged air filter, carburetor, choke, fuel injection or emission malfunction; ignition timing off; blocked manifold; oil leaking into combustion chamber; worn piston rings; head gasket leaking; or a cracked block or cylinder head. 

Poorly maintained vehicles can release as much as 10 times the emissions as a well maintained vehicle.  Smoke in the air also releases tiny particles that can be inhaled into the lungs and studies show these small particles can contribute to respiratory disease.

Drivers can save money and the region’s air by following regular maintenance guidelines provided in the vehicle owner’s manual.  Vehicles should be inspected by an emission professional annually to test for carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.       

Residents of the Truckee Meadows can easily report smoking vehicles by calling 686-SMOG.  Callers should be prepared to provide the license plate number of the smoking vehicle, the approximate time the vehicle was spotted and the location of the vehicle.  All information is confidential.

The smoking vehicle program started in 1996, resulting in more than 29,000 calls over the last five years to the DMV&PS.  The program has helped to get more than 5,000 smoking vehicles cleaned up resulting in cleaner air for the region. 

 For more information on the smoking vehicle program call 1-877-DMV-STATE (1-877-368-7828) or access http://www.dmvnv.com/emission.htm.

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