5-Gas Exhaust Analysis
A 5-gas exhaust analysis, used on pre-OBD cars (pre-1995), measures Carbon Monoxide (CO), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Hydrocarbons (HC), Oxygen (O2), and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) to help older cars prepare for the ADEQ Emissions inspection at an official testing station. Apex Automotive performs diagnostic analysis only — we are not an emissions testing facility.
For owners of classic and pre-1995 vehicles, navigating Arizona’s emissions testing requirements presents a unique challenge. These cars, built before the standardization of On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), lack the sophisticated computer systems that provide instant trouble codes. Instead, they demand a more fundamental, chemistry-based approach to understand the intricate processes occurring inside the engine. This is precisely where a 5-gas exhaust analysis becomes an indispensable diagnostic tool, offering a window into the engine’s soul.
A 5-gas analyzer directly measures the chemical composition of your vehicle’s exhaust, providing a real-time, data-rich snapshot of combustion efficiency and emissions output. Our state-of-the-art equipment meticulously measures five key gases: Carbon Monoxide (CO), a clear indicator of a rich fuel mixture; Carbon Dioxide (CO2), a hallmark of ideal and efficient combustion; Hydrocarbons (HC), which represent unburned fuel and wasted potential; Oxygen (O2), a sign of a lean mixture or a potential exhaust leak; and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), which form under the high temperatures and pressures of combustion and are a major contributor to smog. By analyzing the precise levels and intricate ratios of these gases, our ASE-certified technicians can pinpoint the root cause of emissions failures with surgical precision. This could range from carburetor tuning issues and incorrect ignition timing to hidden vacuum leaks and even internal engine wear. Our diagnostic-first methodology completely prevents the costly and ineffective ‘parts cannon’ approach, ensuring we recommend only the necessary, correct repairs to restore your vehicle’s performance and clean operation.
It is absolutely critical for our clients to understand that Apex Automotive is a dedicated diagnostic and repair facility — we do not administer, perform, or conduct official emissions tests. Our specialized role is to leverage advanced tools like our 5-gas analyzer to diagnose the underlying problems causing your vehicle to fail its emissions test. We then perform the expert repairs needed, providing you with the highest probability of passing the official state-administered inspection. We empower you with transparent data and expert service to get your vintage vehicle running cleanly and efficiently, preserving its legacy while responsibly meeting Arizona’s environmental standards.