Why a CARB “Executive Order” is Important to Consumers
The California Air Resources Board requires specialty parts manufacturers selling emissions-related products for on-road use in California to obtain “certifications” for such parts. By so doing, products are assigned an “Executive Order” (E.O.) number, indicating successful completion of emissions and related tests in an authorized testing facility. Failure to obtain an E.O. can result in fines and the inability of a vehicle to pass routine “Inspection and Maintenance” (I&M) tests, conducted by the state of CA. I&M tests are being required in other states and major air quality regions throughout the country. In addition, emissions-related specialty parts require a CARB E.O. when registering, re-registering or transferring title of a vehicle.
Nationwide, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has similar emissions requirements for emissions-related specialty aftermarket parts. Generally, parts that have been issued a CARB E.O. are acceptable by the EPA, inasmuch as CA emissions standards are equal to or below Federal standards. Regardless of from which perspective the CARB or EPA may be viewed, the installation of an emissions-related part or system not supported by a CARB E.O. is considered a violation of the “tampering” provisions in both the CA Vehicle Code and Federal Clean Air Act. Parts with a CARB E.O. are exempt from these provisions and clearly the safest choice for consumers.