In support of the government’s plan to promote economic recovery and gradually reopen the province, we are delaying the implementation date for making the On-Board Diagnostic test a requirement for heavy diesel commercial vehicles to pass their emissions test. As a result, we have made an amendment to Ontario Regulation 457/19 under the Environmental Protection Act changing the effective date for the mandatory On-Board Diagnostic test from October 1, 2020, to July 1, 2021.
Effective July 1, 2021, the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) test will become a mandatory part of the emissions test for model year 2007 and newer heavy diesel commercial motor vehicles that have a registered gross weight above 4,500 kg and a gross vehicle weight rating up to 6,350 kg. These vehicles must pass both the smoke opacity test and the OBD test at the same time in order to register the vehicle; or if the vehicle is seven years of age and older, to complete a registration renewal.
The advisory OBD test is still a part of the emissions inspection. This will provide owners or operators with the necessary time to complete any repairs prior to the test becoming mandatory.
Strengthening on-road enforcement of emissions standards and reducing emissions from heavy diesel commercial motor vehicles remain key commitments in the government’s Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan to protect and preserve our air and ensure polluters are held accountable.
The ministry will send you additional information on this upcoming change prior to the effective date.
For more information, please contact the Facility Assistance Line at 1-855-895-8509.