The Mechanic was like, "WTF?"

[Compaq888]

Let's put it this way. The government is there to improve our ozone and stuff their pockets full of money. Our economy depends a lot what's in those trucks.

Our economy depends on foreign oil, the more we use the more our government gets rich and so do the oil companies. I wouldn't be surprised if Ford came out with XXL Excursion.

[MetroMPG]

we have bi-annual testing in ontario. $35 for the test.

to address the potential socio-economic impact, if the car fails, there's an upper limit on the repair costs - if the vehicle repairs would exceed that, the owner can get a "conditional pass" good for 2 years until the next test (and presumably enough time to either fix the problem or get another car).

of course i was nervous when i brought in my old accord with 340,000+ kms on the clock. but it passed with flying colours, barely registering the emissions that were being tested (of course I kept it tuned within an inch of its life).

i watched from the waiting area as the mechanics in the shop passed around the print-out of my car's results. they were amazed that it did so well. (and it did just as well 2 years later with 370,000+ kms).

the only mod on the honda that i changed "back" for the test was the timing. i put it back to spec for the test, then advanced it again afterwards. i don't think it would have failed me, but didn't want to take a chance.

[Compaq888]

Why did you retire the car, was it too expensive to keep it working?

[SVOboy]

was it too expensive to keep it working?

With the money you said you put into your car you could put a new engine in that accord every week and be paying less than you do now.

[MetroMPG]

yeah, i was spending roughly $800/yr on repairs & maintenance. plus annual rust touch-ups.

figured i could do better with the metro - and nobody was as surprised as me: firefly #1 and #2 have been the most trouble-free cars i've owned.

[kickflipjr]

I have nevr had much problem with PA emmisions/ inspection. Sometimes i need tires or brakes.

I put on my passenger side mirror for inspection. I didn't want any trouble.