Emissions Testing Near Me
Looking for reliable diesel emissions testing in Colorado Springs?
Exhaust Readers is your trusted diesel emissions specialist, providing fast, professional testing for light- and heavy-duty diesel vehicles. From Volkswagen sedans to concrete pumping trucks, we’ve been serving Colorado Springs for over 22 years. We also provide VIN verification services for out of state titles.
Services We Offer
Exhaust Readers provides three essential services for vehicle owners in Colorado Springs and El Paso County. Whether you need diesel emissions testing or VIN verification for out of state residents, our experienced technicians deliver fast, professional service.
Diesel Emissions Testing
We specialize in comprehensive diesel emissions testing for all vehicle types—from light-duty Volkswagen diesels to heavy-duty construction equipment and commercial trucks. Our facility is equipped to handle the specific requirements of diesel testing, and licensed by the state of Colorado.
VIN Verification
When a out of state vehicle is registered in Colorado, VIN verification is required to complete the registration process. We provide official VIN verification services for out-of-state vehicles registered in Colorado. Our service is fast and professional, giving you the documentation required by the DMV.
Diesel Emissions Testing Near Me
Diesel vehicles in portions of El Paso County, including areas of Colorado Springs, require emissions testing to meet state environmental standards. At Exhaust Readers, diesel emissions testing is what we do—and we do it exceptionally well.
Whether you drive a diesel pickup truck for work, operate commercial vehicles, or own a diesel passenger car, we provide the professional testing required for your vehicle registration. We handle everything from small diesel cars to heavy-duty commercial trucks, school buses, and construction equipment (except all-wheel-drive vehicles.)
Our location on North Nevada Avenue makes us easily accessible for diesel vehicle owners throughout Colorado Springs and El Paso County. We understand the diesel testing process inside and out, and we complete your test quickly so you can get back to work or back on the road.
Contact us at (719) 260-6629 for diesel emissions testing.
VIN Verification Colorado
When a out of state vehicle is registered in Colorado, VIN verification is required as part of the registration process. Exhaust Readers provides official VIN verification services.
Our VIN verification service is quick and straightforward. We physically inspect your vehicle to verify that the VIN matches your title or registration documents, then provide the official Form DR 2698 documentation required by the DMV.
VIN verifications can be completed by Colorado-licensed emissions testing stations, licensed auto dealers, or law enforcement. At Exhaust Readers, we make the process easy—and if your diesel vehicle also needs emissions testing, we can handle both services in one visit.
Call (719) 260-6629 for VIN verification services.
Visit Us Today
Everything you need to know about our location, hours, and pricing. Contact us at (719) 260-6629 for the most up-to-date pricing.
Emission Test Hours
We know you have a busy schedule, which is why we offer convenient hours to fit your needs. Our facility is open during regular business hours, and we work efficiently to minimize your wait time.
Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: Closed
Emission Test Locations
Exhaust Readers is conveniently located in Colorado Springs at 4202 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80907. We’re one of Colorado’s licensed diesel emissions testing stations, serving diesel vehicle owners throughout El Paso County and beyond.
Emission Test Cost
Diesel emissions testing costs vary depending on your vehicle type and specific testing requirements. At Exhaust Readers, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprises. When you call to schedule your appointment, we’ll provide you with an accurate quote based on your vehicle and testing needs. VIN verification is $25.
Colorado Emissions Testing Requirements
Colorado requires diesel emissions testing in designated areas to maintain air quality standards and reduce harmful emissions. Understanding these requirements helps you stay compliant and avoid registration delays.
Who Needs Diesel Emissions Testing?
Diesel emissions testing is required in several Colorado counties, including portions of El Paso County (which includes Colorado Springs). The testing requirement applies to:
- Boulder, Jefferson, Broomfield, Denver, and Douglas Counties (full counties)
- Portions of Adams, Arapahoe, Larimer, Weld, and El Paso Counties
If you live in or regularly commute into these areas with a diesel vehicle, emissions testing is required for vehicle registration.
Important: Gasoline-powered vehicles in El Paso County are NOT required to have emissions testing. Colorado Springs diesel emissions testing requirements apply specifically to diesel-powered vehicles only.
Diesel Vehicle Exemptions
New diesel vehicles are exempt from emissions testing for the first four model years. For example, a 2026 model year diesel vehicle is exempt until 2030.
Heavy-duty diesel vehicles (26,000 lbs GVWR or more) model year 2015 and newer are exempt for the first six model years.
When a diesel vehicle changes ownership during the final year of its exemption period, an emissions test is required at the time of sale.
State-of-the-Art Testing Facility
Our certified facility uses the latest technology to ensure accurate, efficient testing that meets all Colorado state requirements.
Testing Frequency
After the exemption period ends, diesel vehicles require periodic emissions testing as part of your registration renewal process. Your vehicle registration renewal notice will indicate whether an emissions test is required.
Change of Ownership
Colorado law requires the seller to provide a passing emissions test when selling a used diesel vehicle in areas where testing is required. This ensures the buyer can register the vehicle without delays.
Emissions Testing:
What do I need to bring?
To make your diesel emissions testing appointment go smoothly, please bring:
- Your vehicle registration or renewal notice
- Payment for the testing fee
For VIN verification (used car sales):
Bring your vehicle title and any relevant DMV paperwork.
About Exhaust Readers
Exhaust Readers is Colorado Springs’ trusted diesel emissions testing facility, conveniently located at 4202 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80907. For more than two decades, we’ve specialized in emissions testing for diesel vehicles of all sizes, with particular expertise in diesel trucks and commercial vehicles that construction professionals and fleet operators rely on daily.
Our qualified technicians understand that you need efficient service to keep your vehicle on the road and compliant with Colorado regulations. We offer appointment scheduling for priority service, though walk-ins are always welcome based on availability.
Hours Of Operation
Monday-Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday-Sunday: Closed
Visit Us
4202 N Nevada Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Call Us
(719) 260-6629
Emissions Testing FAQs
Colorado diesel emissions testing measures opacity (smoke density) from your vehicle's exhaust. Current standards require that diesel vehicles meet a 20% opacity limit for all naturally aspirated and turbocharged diesel engines.
Emission testing requirements in Colorado depend on your location and vehicle type. For diesel vehicles, emissions testing is required in Boulder, Jefferson, Broomfield, Denver, and Douglas Counties, as well as portions of Adams, Arapahoe, Larimer, Weld, and El Paso Counties (including Colorado Springs). Gasoline vehicles in El Paso County are NOT required to have emissions testing—this is a diesel-only requirement for our area. Your vehicle registration renewal notice will clearly state if an emissions test is required for your specific vehicle and address.
For complete information about Colorado diesel emissions requirements, visit:
- Colorado DMV Diesel Vehicles Page
- Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment - Diesel Emissions
Not sure if your diesel vehicle needs testing? Call Exhaust Readers at (719) 260-6629 and we'll help you understand Colorado's requirements for your specific situation.
Diesel vehicles are exempt from emissions testing for the first four model years. After the exemption period, diesel vehicles require periodic emissions testing as indicated on your vehicle registration renewal notice. The testing requirement is tied to your registration renewal cycle. Heavy-duty diesel vehicles (26,000 lbs GVWR or more) that are model year 2015 or newer receive a six-year exemption instead of four years.
For diesel vehicles, emissions testing involves an opacity test that measures the density of smoke in your exhaust. Our technicians operate your vehicle at specific speeds and load conditions (typically 60 mph, 50 mph, and 40 mph under load for some vehicles, or snap acceleration tests for others). During the test, a specialized smoke meter measures how much light is blocked by your exhaust smoke. Colorado requires diesel vehicles to meet a 20% opacity standard. We also conduct a visual inspection to ensure required emissions equipment like diesel particulate filters are present and unmodified.
Colorado does offer emissions waivers in certain situations if your diesel vehicle fails testing. To qualify for a waiver, you must spend a specified minimum amount on emissions-related but still be unable to pass the test. You'll need documentation of your repair expenses and failed test results. Waivers cannot be issued for vehicles missing emissions equipment, or tampered components. For detailed information about waiver eligibility and requirements, visit the Colorado DMV Emissions page or contact the State Emissions Program at (303) 205-5603.
Colorado requires diesel emissions testing in designated Front Range counties, including portions of El Paso County where Colorado Springs is located. Diesel vehicles must meet a 20% opacity standard for exhaust smoke. New diesel vehicles are exempt for the first four model years (six years for heavy-duty vehicles 26,000 lbs GVWR or more). Required emissions equipment must be present and functional. Testing must be performed at licensed diesel emissions testing facilities like Exhaust Readers. When a diesel vehicle is sold, the seller must provide a passing emissions test to the buyer. For complete details, see the Colorado Code of Regulations - Motor Vehicle Emissions or visit dmv.colorado.gov/diesel-vehicles.
While we welcome walk-ins based on availability, we recommend calling ahead to schedule an appointment at (719) 260-6629. Scheduled appointments receive priority service, which means minimal wait time and faster service. This is especially helpful if you have a tight schedule or need to get back to work quickly. Our hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help. Give us a call and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you have.
Contact Exhaust Readers
Ready to schedule your diesel emissions test or VIN verification?
Testimonials
Need Emissions Testing?
Avoid standing around forever or risking a bad grade. With over two decades of hands-on work on diesels, our team gives clear answers right away. Reserve your spot today.
Called and got an appointment the same day. Arrived 45 minutes early and they had my emissions test done in 15 minutes. To top it off the staff from the call until complete were extremely nice and professional. Thank you!
Jenn Robbins