Pa. Emission testing for the prius?

It depends on where you live in PA:

http://www.drivecleanpa.state.pa.us/drivec...npa/default.htm

 

Thanks so much folks. I looked at the website but I'm not sure if "more than a basic tail sniffer" is needed or not. Here is the link:
PA DEP I/M - Emission Test Definitions

I'll probably take it to a dealer.

 

If you are in Pittsburgh or Allegheny County, according to the website link above the 2013 Prius V Wagon will require the OBD test. That is a common test that most states are running today. As long as your car doesn't have the check engine light ON, more than likely you will have no problems passing the test. Things that will create a problem in that inspection also include lights not working, wiper blades needing replacement, severely broken windshields, horn not working correctly, brakes not stopping properly and tires that are worn down to the wear bars or worn down on one side. The usual stuff.

The 2005 Prius should fall under the same description in the previous paragraph that the OP was asking about.

They pretty much cut out the tail pipe sniffer in most states a while back. It is generally used on older cars and trucks that are not computer controlled. IE: Pre 1980. Since fuel injection came into play along with the electronic ignition and the OBD plugs, more and more of the state inspections revolve around the onboard system working correctly or incorrectly. (check engine light on or off). The test will also see if the OBD system is working properly and that no codes are present or pending. If you were to clear codes right before a OBD inspection, the car could fail the test since one of the requirements of the test is that all of the OBD system being checked is reporting normal. A recently cleared system will not show anything for a designated amount of cycles. Think buying a used car and then a couple of days later dash lights up. Simple trick, clear codes then sell car to sucker. Happens from time to time in the used car industry.

Hope this helps you and that you were concerned about what test for your Prius listed in your avatar.

On-board diagnostics - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

FWIW, this thread is almost ten years old but the information does apply to todays standards.