AutoCheck

AutoCheck is a voluntary program offered by the Pollution Prevention Partnership at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and supported by the Port of Corpus Christi. AutoCheck is a Supplemental Environmental Program (SEP) performed with penalty monies from a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) enforcement action.

We read "Check Engine Light" (OBD-II) codes, test gas cap pressure, and tailpipe emissions for hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. When a vehicle is found to have high exhaust emissions or certain Check Engine Light codes the owner is given a voucher to take the vehicle for a checkup at one of our certified auto shops for further diagnosis.

The garage sends an estimate for repairs to AutoCheck who can authorize and pay up to $600 of the recommended emissions related repairs. If the repairs are over $600 the vehicle owner has the option to pay the difference or not have the work done. Repair costs of $600 or less are billed directly to AutoCheck. 

We will test any passenger car or truck, but to be eligible for a voucher the vehicle must be privately owned and registered in a local county: Aransas, Bee, Brooks, Calhoun, DeWitt, Duval, Goliad, Jackson, Jim Wells, Kenedy, Kleberg, Lavaca, Live Oak, McMullen, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio, and Victoria

No. AutoCheck does not qualify as an official emissions inspection for vehicles registered in other counties or states where emissions testing is mandatory. A vehicle registered in a location that requires a smog test must drive to a county where emission testing is mandatory or register the vehicle in a Texas county that does not require emissions testing. 

Mandatory emissions testing information: Requirements to Pass the Texas Smog Check.

Nueces county: Vehicle Registration

We like to work with volunteer groups, health fairs, non-profits, companies, or anyone else that wants to help maintain healthy air and save money. Fill out our request form or contact the Vehicle Emissions Program Manager.

Trent Thigpen: phone (361) 825-3070 or e-mail at trent.thigpen@tamucc.edu.