MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - The check-engine light drama in the inspection lines is over. Effective immediately, drivers in Memphis with their check engine lights on have an alternative.
"It is nerve wracking, it is hot out here," said Savia Archie as she waited in line. For Archie, Monday afternoon was her sixth trip to get her Ford Expedition inspected.
"If this don't work, if this don't cut it, I'm through, I'm going to get me another car. I can't keep doing this," she said.
Archie didn't know the city had changed its policies.
Before, a vehicle failed inspection if its check engine light was on. It didn't matter the reason. Under the new rule, if the check engine light is on, inspectors will conduct an emissions test on the vehicle's tailpipe.
"We know this has been a confusing, frustrating, and, at times, costly situation for our citizens." said Memphis Mayor A C Wharton.
"After many in-depth discussions with state officials, we have determined that we have some latitude in this matter and we are choosing to exercise it." he added.
City Council Chairman Bill Morrison said the change is the exact change the city council approved back on July 2nd.
Morrison questioned the timing of the Mayor's announcement, since the council was set to make the change official on Tuesday.
Archie's vehicle ended up passing inspection.
"It feels great, I don't have to come back here for another year," she said.
