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Best Auto Repair, Fredericksburg

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INSPECTIONS & EMISSIONS


Vehicle Inspection Services at A & J Automotive

In certain states, routine safety inspections and emissions assessments are mandated for automobiles and trucks. At A & J Automotive, our team is not only well-equipped but also trained to execute these inspections. Our skilled technicians can also perform comprehensive multi-point inspections on your vehicles as required.

These are some of the inspection services we offer.

VA State Inspection Station
VA state inspection stations are privately owned establishments, certified by the government, that administer state inspections across VA. A & J Automotive is recognized as an VA state inspection station. If you require a state inspection, we invite you to visit our auto shop or contact us at 540-373-2811.

Exhaust Related FAQs


What is a rough idle?

A rough idle describes a vehicle's engine with spark plugs that are not firing correctly when the vehicle is in park, with no gas applied. Most vehicles idle between 600 and 1,200 RPM and should hold their idle speed consistently.

Can you put any exhaust on any car?

Not every exhaust will fit every car. Compatibility isn't just about car make and model; engine specs, optional extras, and even trim levels can influence the fit. Make sure you consider not just the make and model, but also engine details, fancy extras, and even trim levels before getting your heart set on a shiny new system.

Why is smoke coming out of my tailpipe?

The most common reason for thick smoke coming out of your car's exhaust pipe is the fuel to air ratio in your engine is too rich. This means that the fuel injectors are either adding too much fuel or that the intake valves aren't letting enough air in. This is caused by a cracked or leaking fuel injector, a failing O2 sensor, or air filter that needs replacing.

Catalytic Converter FAQs


Can I drive with the catalytic converter light on?

A bad catalytic converter can increase your car's exhaust emissions, but it does not prevent you from driving. At A & J Automotive we know this is true. A clogged catalytic converter will eventually affect the performance of your vehicle in Fredericksburg, Stafford Lakes, Bera and Holly Corner. Exhaust gases will not escape easily and create an increase in exhaust gas pressure. The buildup in pressure can lead to high-cost repair bills in the future.

What can cause a catalytic converter light to come on?

A catalytic converter helps reduce harmful engine emissions from entering the air by breaking down the harmful byproduct of internal combustion into less-harmful compounds. If your catalytic converter isn't working properly the check engine light will come on. The most common causes for a catalytic convert warning light to display are a clogged, cracked or melted converter. Sometimes the problem isn't the catalytic converter at all but an exhaust leak letting gases out of the system before it reaches the converter.

What happens to your car after the catalytic converter gets taken?

Removing the catalytic converter has a dramatic impact on your vehicle's acoustics. A deep, loud roar replaces the engine's usual hum, intensifying as you accelerate. Additionally, expect rough transitions and sputtering sounds when shifting gears, indicating impaired performance and potential engine damage.

To learn more about our Inspection and Emission services, call us at 540-373-2811 or request a quote by clicking below:


Request Quote


Discover More About Inspection and Emissions Testing Services At A & J Automotive in Fredericksburg

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what our customers say

Always the best. Austin and Joe Roberta Chuck, Cody and the entire team at A&J are like part of the family. They are always fair and trustworthy. We have been going to them for around 20 years now. My daughter went off to college in Florida and the goal is to find a place there that we can compare to A&J. That will be a tall order. When ever she drives home the car goes to them for a good once over. A+++
J
, 09/30/2021

Friendly, convenient, trustworthy, and nice. Will go back, even though my car was dead and ultimately they couldn't do anything
J
, 09/30/2021

Best shop ever !
M
, 09/30/2021

They are hands down the best in Fredericksburg and I'll continue to use them
M
, 09/30/2021

I go here for inspection. Good friendly service.
B
, 09/30/2021

Always great customer service. Competitive prices. I always use them for my major car needs and services.
A
, 09/30/2021

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