So my check engine light came on and I stopped at O'Reilly's to have them check it.

They told me it was showing code P0128.... which it seems this code can relate a few different things.

https://www.samarins.com/diagnose/p0128.html

For now, I don't care about the diagnosis... I already took it to a local mechanic that I use fairly regularly and they quoted me to fix it; but I cant afford the fix right now, I just don't have the funds available.

But here is the problem.

M Emissions are due, and I need to renew my tag registration before the end of the month.

SO. Does anyone know if this particular error code will have any effect on Emissions testing, and could it cause the car to fail Emissions?

If it does, is it possible that I could just run into O'Reilly's and get them to reset the code (temporarily of course) so its "out of the system" for a few hours, so I can go get the Emissions Testing done?

Oh yeah, for reference... I have the 2006 HHR LS, 2.2L Engine.

 

Right from the being of what the link you posted says to do is replace the thermostat.
Engine is not coming up to operating temperature.
Do you feel heat inside the car ?
Have you checked the coolant bottle level to see if it's at the proper level ? Possible coolant leak if it's low or empty.
If both of the questions are yes then have the thermostat replaced with a ACDelco 131-158 , no other brand.
After that if you still have the code, check or replace temperature sensor.

 

CatMan, I already know that...

I already had a mechanic test and determine its the thermostat..

But that doesn't answer the question I asked.

Can I pass my Emissions Test without getting that fixed?

I can't afford to fix it just yet, but my emissions and tag renewal are due before the end of next week.

Can I get the code temporarily "reset" somehow, and pass my Emissions?

 

If the check engine light is on and your state is like mine, no.
Engine is to cold for proper emissions.

 

I would think if only the one code is present you would be able to pass , but it’s a determining factor in that each state seems to have different variations to emissions tests , that being said
A it fairly easy to change the thermostat yourself

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-tutorial-library-21/how-save-%24350-00-thermostat-replacement-2-4l-p0128-24493/
and
https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-...-system-60614/

now we do get a discount at RockAuto, the thermostat is AC Delco 131-158 , please don’t waste your money on the cheaper ones.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...hermostat,2200

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/supp...-2020-a-61707/

 

If you can't do it and you know the mechanic maybe he can do you a favor and charge 1 hour labor (maybe the shop rate is $95/hr)
Want the termostat quick and you have Amazon Prime ?

 

The P0128 code actually means that it is not coming up to temperature fast enough - is does not mean that it doesn't come up to temperature (subtle difference there).

the op: "Can I pass my Emissions Test without getting that fixed?" - how do we know? With the number of states with emissions testing, all with specific procedures and tests, your best answer is to call the state department responsible for the emissions testing. Most places will be able to detect that a code was recently removed and negates the test.

 

If you are lucky; run the car for 20 minutes or so then shut it down for 15 minutes then start it up and, if the light is off, drive to the inspection station. That will warm the coolant up enough that the second start will get up to temperature quick enough. That is if you did bother to check the coolant level.

Any code that causes a CEL is a smog related code. Some states will stop right there with no further inspection.

 

Thanks guys! That info helps!

I don't need Amazon to get the part, there is an O'Reilly's Auto Parts just around the corner from me, literally just a few minutes drive and they have it in stock for $20; plus a $15 bottle of coolant.

The Mechanic wanted to charge me $50 for the part, and $165 for the labor, and $20 for the coolant.... and I just can't afford some $235 fix....

I know its an easy fix though I don't have all the tools... and its absolutely pouring down rain outside the apartment ( I dont have a garage! ) and is supposed to continue raining through the next few days.

Worse case scenario, I'll buy the $20 part from O'Reilly's and ask the mechanic if they can half their labor charge to swap it, cause they won't have to keep the car on their rack waiting for the part to arrive... and while I can't afford $235.... I could do 100 - 125.

Or I'll just wait till my next day off (next monday) when the rain stops and see if I cant do it myself.

 

Is it a Delco 131-158 ? No other brand of thermostat should be put in, the part can throw a coolant code, been said on this forum time and again.
O'Reilly's sell the correct thermostat but look at the price:
https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/b...rmostats&pos=2

Read the 4th question on this page, I see your from Georgia.
https://www.cleanairforce.com/motorists/obd-testing/