Subpart V - Warranty Regulations and Voluntary Aftermarket Part Certification Program

§85.2101 General applicability.

(a) Sections 85.2101 through 85.2111 are applicable to all 1981 and later model year vehicles subject to standards under 40 CFR part 86, subpart S.

§85.2102 Definitions.

(a) As used in §§85.2101 through 85.2111 all terms not defined herein shall have the meaning given them in the Act. All terms additionally not defined in the Act shall have the meaning given in 40 CFR 86.1803-01, 1065.1001, or 1068.30:

(1) Act means Part A of Title II of the Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. 7421 et seq.

(2) Office Director means the Director for the Office of Transportation and Air Quality in the Office of Air and Radiation of the Environmental Protection Agency or other authorized representative of the Office Director.

(3) Certified part means a part certified in accordance with the aftermarket part certification regulations contained in this subpart.

(4) Emission performance warranty means that warranty described in §85.2103(c) and 42 U.S.C. 7541(b).

(5) Emission warranty means a warranty given pursuant to this subpart and 42 U.S.C. 7541(a) or (b).

(6) Model year means the manufacturer's annual production period as described in subpart X of this part.

(7) Original equipment part means a part present in or on a vehicle at the time the vehicle is sold to the ultimate purchaser, except for components installed by a dealer which are not manufactured by the vehicle manufacturer or are not installed at the direction of the vehicle manufacturer.

(8) Owner means the original purchaser or any subsequent purchaser of a vehicle.

(9) Owner's manual means the instruction booklet normally provided to the purchaser of a vehicle.

(10) Useful life means that period established under 40 CFR 86.1805.

(11) Vehicle means any vehicle subject to standards under 40 CFR part 86, subpart S.

(12) Warranty booklet means a booklet, separate from the owner's manual, containing all warranties provided with the vehicle.

(13) Written instructions for proper maintenance and use means those maintenance and operation instructions specified in the owner's manual as being necessary to assure compliance of a vehicle with applicable emission standards for the useful life of the vehicle that are:

(i) In accordance with the instructions specified for performance on the manufacturer's prototype vehicle used in certification (including those specified for vehicles used under special circumstances); and

(ii) In compliance with the requirements of 40 CFR 86.1808; and

(iii) In compliance with any other EPA regulations governing maintenance and use instructions.

(14) Emission related parts means those parts installed for the specific purpose of controlling emissions or those components, systems, or elements of design which must function properly to assure continued vehicle emission compliance.

(15) Objective evidence of an emission related repair means all diagnostic information and data, the actual parts replaced during repair, and any other information directly used to support a warranty claim, or to support denial of such a claim.

(16) Valid emission performance warranty claim means a claim in which there is no evidence that the vehicle had not been properly maintained and operated in accordance with manufacturer instructions, the vehicle failed to conform to applicable emission standards as measured by an Office Director-approved type of emission warranty test during its useful life and the owner is subject to sanction as a result of the test failure.

(17) Reasonable expense means any expense incurred due to repair of a warranty failure caused by a non-original equipment certified part, including, but not limited to, all charges in any expense categories that would be considered payable by the involved vehicle manufacturer to its authorized dealer under a similar warranty situation where an original equipment part was the cause of the failure. Included in “reasonable expense” are any additional costs incurred specifically due to the processing of a claim involving a certified aftermarket part or parts as covered in these regulations. The direct parts and labor expenses of carrying out repairs is immediately chargeable to the part manufacturer. All charges beyond the actual parts and labor repair expenses must be amortized over the number of claims and/or over a number of years in a manner that would be considered consistent with generally accepted accounting principles. These expense categories shall include but are not limited to the cost of labor, materials, record keeping, special handling, and billing as a result of replacement of a certified aftermarket part.

(18) MOD Director has the meaning given for “Designated Compliance Officer” in 40 CFR 1068.30.

(b) [Reserved]

[45 FR 34839, May 22, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32587, Aug. 8, 1989; 64 FR 23919, May 4, 1999; 86 FR 34364, Jun. 29, 2021; 88 FR 4472, Jan. 24, 2023; 89 FR 28152, Apr. 18, 2024]

§85.2103 Emission warranty.

(a) The manufacturer of each vehicle to which this subpart applies must provide a written commitment to meet warranty requirements as described in this section.

(b) The warranty periods under this section apply based on the vehicle's age in years and on the vehicle's odometer reading. The warranty period expires based on the specified age or mileage, whichever comes first. The warranty period for a particular vehicle begins on the date the vehicle is delivered to its ultimate purchaser or, if the vehicle is first placed in service as a “demonstrator” or “company” car prior to delivery, on the date it is first placed in service.

(c) Under the emission performance warranty, in the case of a vehicle failing to conform at any time during its useful life to the applicable emission standards or family emission limits as determined by an EPA-approved emission test, the manufacturer must remedy that nonconformity at no cost to the owner if such nonconformity results or will result in the vehicle owner having to bear any penalty or other sanction (including the denial of the right to use the vehicle) under local, State, or Federal law. The following warranty periods apply:

(1) For light-duty vehicles, light-duty trucks, and medium-duty passenger vehicles, the warranty period for the emission performance warranty is 24 months or 24,000 miles, except that the warranty period is 8 years or 80,000 miles for any nonconformity resulting from a failed specified major emission control component identified in paragraph (d) of this section.

(2) For medium-duty vehicles, the warranty period for the emission performance warranty is 5 years or 50,000 miles, except that the warranty period is 8 years or 80,000 miles for any nonconformity resulting from a failed specified major emission control component identified in paragraph (d) of this section.

(d) An emission defect warranty applies as follows:

(1) An emission defect warranty applies for light-duty vehicles, light-duty trucks, and medium-duty passenger vehicles for a warranty period of two years or 24,000 miles, except that the following specified major emission control components have a warranty period of eight years or 80,000 miles:

(i) Catalytic converters and SCR catalysts, and related components.

(ii) Particulate filters and particulate traps, used with both spark-ignition and compression-ignition engines.

(iii) Components related to exhaust gas recirculation with compression-ignition engines.

(iv) Emission control module.

(v) Batteries serving as a Renewable Energy Storage System for electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, along with all components needed to charge the system, store energy, and transmit power to move the vehicle. This paragraph (d)(1)(v) is optional for vehicles not yet subject to battery monitoring requirements under 40 CFR 86.1815-27.

(2) An emission defect warranty applies for medium-duty vehicles for a warranty period of five years or 50,000 miles, except that the specific major emission control components identified in paragraph (d)(1) of this section have a warranty period of eight years or 80,000 miles.

(3) An electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle fails to meet the manufacturer-defined value for percentage usable battery energy for the specified period as determined by the State of Certified Energy monitor required under 40 CFR 86.1815-27, subject to the warranty claim procedures in §85.2106.

[45 FR 34839, May 22, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32587, Aug. 8, 1989; 88 FR 4472, Jan. 24, 2023means any vehicle subject to standards under 40 CFR part 86, subpart S.; 89 FR 28152, Apr. 18, 2024]

§85.2104 Owners' compliance with instructions for proper maintenance and use.

(a) An emission warranty claim may be denied on the basis of noncompliance by a vehicle owner with the written instructions for proper maintenance and use.

(b) When determining whether an owner has complied with the written instructions for proper maintenance and use, a vehicle manufacturer may require an owner to submit evidence of compliance only with those written maintenance instructions for which the manufacturer has an objective reason for believing:

(1) Were not performed; and

(2) If not performed could be the cause of the particular vehicle's exceeding applicable emission standards.

(c) Evidence of compliance with a maintenance instruction may consist of:

(1) A maintenance log book which has been validated at the approximate time or mileage intervals specified for service by someone who regularly engages in the business of servicing automobiles for the relevant maintenance instruction(s); or

(2) A showing that the vehicle has been submitted for scheduled maintenance servicing at the approximate time or mileage intervals specified for service to someone who regularly engages in the business of servicing automobiles for the purpose of performing the relevant maintenance; or

(3) A statement by the vehicle owner that he or she performed the maintenance at the approximate time or mileage interval specified including a showing,

(i) That the owner purchased and used proper parts, and

(ii) Upon request by the vehicle manufacturer, that the owner is able to perform the maintenance properly.

(d) The time/mileage interval for scheduled maintenance services shall be the service interval specified for the part in the written instructions for proper maintenance and use. However, in the case of certified parts having a maintenance or replacement interval different from that specified in the written instructions for proper maintenance and use, the time/mileage interval shall be the service interval for which the part was certified.

(e) The owner may perform maintenance or have maintenance performed more frequently than required in the maintenance instructions.

(f) Written instruction for proper use of battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles may identify certain behaviors or vehicle operating modes expected to unreasonably or artificially shorten battery durability. For example, exceeding a vehicle's towing capacity might be considered improper use. However, the manufacturer should not consider actions to be improper use if the vehicle can be designed to prevent the targeted behaviors or operating modes. Evidence of compliance with the requirement to properly use vehicles under this paragraph (f) is generally limited to onboard data logging, though manufacturers may also request vehicle owners to make a statement regarding specific behaviors or vehicle operating modes.

(g) Except as provided in paragraph (h) of this section, a manufacturer may deny an emission warranty claim on the basis of noncompliance with the written instructions for proper maintenance and use if and only if:

(1) An owner is not able to comply with a request by a manufacturer for evidence pursuant to paragraph (c) or (f) of this section; or

(2) Notwithstanding the evidence presented pursuant to paragraph (c) of this section, the manufacturer can prove that the vehicle failed because of any of the following conditions:

(i) The vehicle was abused.

(ii) An instruction for the proper maintenance and use was performed in a manner resulting in a component's being improperly installed or a component or related parameter's being adjusted substantially outside of the manufacturer's specifications.

(iii) Unscheduled maintenance was performed on a vehicle which resulted in the removing or rendering inoperative of any component affecting the vehicle's emissions.

(h) In no case may a manufacturer deny an emission warranty claim on the basis of—

(1) Warranty work or predelivery service performed by any facility authorized by the vehicle manufacturer to perform such work or service; or

(2) Work performed in an emergency situation to rectify an unsafe condition, including an unsafe driveability condition, attributable to the manufacturer, provided the vehicle owner has taken steps to put the vehicle back in a conforming condition in a timely manner; or

(3) The use of any uncertified part or non-compliance with any written instruction for proper maintenance and use which is not relevant to the reason that the vehicle failed to comply with applicable emission standards; or

(4) Any cause attributable to the vehicle manufacturer; or

(5) The use of any fuel which is commonly available in the geographical area in which the vehicle or engine is located, unless the written instructions for proper maintenance and use specify that the use of that fuel would adversely affect the emission control devices and systems of the vehicle, and there is commonly available information for the owner to identify the proper fuel to be used.

[45 FR 34839, May 22, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32587, Aug. 8, 1989; 88 FR 4473, Jan. 24, 2023; 89 FR 28153, Apr. 18, 2024; 89 FR 28153, Apr. 18, 2024]

§85.2105 Aftermarket parts.

(a) No valid emission performance warranty claim shall be denied on the basis of the use of a properly installed certified aftermarket part in the maintenance or repair of a vehicle. A vehicle manufacturer that honors a valid emission performance warranty claim involving a certified aftermarket part may seek reimbursement for reasonable expenses incurred in honoring the claim by following the warranty claim procedures listed in §85.2107(c).

(b) Except as provided in §85.2104(h), a vehicle manufacturer may deny an emission performance warranty claim on the basis of an uncertified aftermarket part used in the maintenance or repair of a vehicle if the vehicle manufacturer can demonstrate that the vehicle's failure to meet emission standards was caused by use of the uncertified part. A warranty claim may be denied if the vehicle manufacturer submits a written document to the vehicle owner that the vehicle owner is unable or unwilling to refute. The document must:

(1) Establish a causal connection between the emissions short test failure and use of the uncertified part, and,

(2) Assert that:

(i) Removal of the uncertified part and installation of any comparable certified or original equipment part previously removed or replaced during installation of the uncertified part will resolve the observed emissions failure in the vehicle, and/or

(ii) Use of the uncertified part has caused subsequent damage to other specified certified components such that replacement of these components would also be necessary to resolve the observed vehicle emissions failure, and,

(3) List all objective evidence as defined in §85.2102 that was used in the determination to deny warranty. This evidence must be made available to the vehicle owner or EPA upon request.

(c) A part not required to be replaced at a definite interval in accordance with the written instructions for maintenance and use shall be warranted for the full term of any warranty mandated by the Act. Instructions to replace a component only if checked and found to be operating below specification shall have no bearing on warranty coverage, unless an owner did not follow such an instruction prior to the short test failure and noncompliance with that instruction caused the failure of another vehicle component relevant to the nonconformity.

[45 FR 34839, May 22, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32587, Aug. 8, 1989; 89 FR 28153, Apr. 18, 2024]

§85.2106 Warranty claim procedures.

(a) A claim under the emission performance warranty may be raised immediately upon the failure of an EPA-approved emission test if, as a result of that failure, an owner is required to take action of any kind in order to avoid imposition of a penalty or sanction. An owner need not suffer the loss of the right to use a vehicle, be fined, incur repair expenses, or actually bear any penalty or sanction to satisfy the requirement of §85.2103(a)(3). That requirement shall be met if a test failure sets a procedure in motion under which the owner will bear a penalty or sanction if a vehicle is not brought into conformity or repaired to some specified extent within some specified period of time.

(b) A claim under any emission warranty required by 42 U.S.C. 7541(a) or (b) may be submitted by bringing a vehicle to:

(1) Any repair facility authorized by the vehicle manufacturer to service that model vehicle, or

(2) Any repair facility authorized by the vehicle manufacturer to perform emission performance warranty repairs for that model vehicle.

(c) To the extent required by any Federal or State law, whether statutory or common law, a vehicle manufacturer shall be required to provide a means for non-franchised repair facilities to perform emission warranty repairs.

(d) The manufacturer of each vehicle to which the warranty is applicable shall establish procedures as to the manner in which a claim under the emission warranty is to be processed. The procedures shall—

(1) Provide for a final decision by the vehicle manufacturer within a reasonable time, not to exceed 30 days from the time at which the vehicle is initially presented for repair or within the time period during which an owner is required by local, State or federal law to have the vehicle repaired without incurring further penalties or sanctions (whichever is shorter), unless a delay

(i) Is requested by the vehicle owner, or

(ii) Is caused by an event not attributable to the vehicle manufacturer or the warranty repair facility; and

(2) Require that if the facility at which the vehicle is initially presented for repair is unable for any reason to honor the particular claim, then, unless this requirement is waived in writing by the vehicle owner, the repair facility shall forward the claim to an individual or office authorized to make emission warranty determinations for the manufacturer.

(e) Within the time period specified in paragraph (d) of this section the manufacturer shall:

(1) Notify the owner that it will honor the claim; or

(2) Provide the owner, in writing, with an explanation of the basis upon which the claim is being denied; or

(3) If the basis of the claim denial involves use of an uncertified part, provide the owner in writing with an explanation of the basis upon which the claim is being denied according to all criteria specified in §85.2105(b).

(f) Failure to notify an owner within the required time period (as determined under paragraph (d) of this section) for reasons that are not attributable to the vehicle owner or events which are not beyond the control of the vehicle manufacturer or the repair facility, shall result in the vehicle manufacturer being responsible for repairing the warranted items free of charge to the vehicle owner.

(g) The vehicle manufacturer shall incur all costs associated with a determination that an emission warranty claim is valid.

[45 FR 34839, May 22, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32588, Aug. 8, 1989; 88 FR 4473, Jan. 24, 2023]

§85.2107 Warranty remedy.

(a) The manufacturer's obligation under the emission warranties provided under 42 U.S.C. 7541(a) and (b) shall be to make all adjustments, repairs or replacements necessary to assure that the vehicle complies with applicable emission standards of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, that it will continue to comply for the remainder of its useful life (if proper maintenance and operation are continued), and that it will operate in a safe manner. The manufacturer shall bear all costs incurred as a result of the above obligation, except that after the first 24 months or 24,000 miles (whichever first occurs) the manufacturer shall be responsible only for:

(1) The adjustment, repair or replacement of any of the specified major emission control components listed in 42 U.S.C. 7541(i)(2) or components which have been designated by the administrator to be specified major emission control components until the vehicle has been in operation for 8 years or 80,000 miles; and

(2) All other components which must be adjusted, repaired or replaced to enable a component adjusted, repaired, or replaced under paragraph (a)(1) of this section to perform properly.

(b) Manufacturers shall be liable for the total cost of the remedy for any vehicle validly presented for repair under an emission warranty to any authorized service facility authorized by the vehicle manufacturer. State or local limitations as to the extent of the penalty or sanction imposed upon an owner of a failed vehicle shall have no bearing on this liability.

(c) The remedy provided under paragraph (a) of this section shall include the repair or replacement of certified parts as required in §85.2105(a). To seek reimbursement from the involved certified aftermarket part manufacturer for reasonable expenses incurred due to the certified aftermarket parts determined to be the cause of a performance warranty failure, the vehicle manufacturer must:

(1) Retain all parts replaced during the performance warranty repair, and

(2) Follow the procedures laid out in §85.2117.

(d) If a manufacturer is unable (for reasons not attributable to the vehicle owner or events beyond the control of the vehicle manufacturer or an authorized repair facility) to repair a vehicle within the time period specified under §85.2106(d) after the initial presentation of the vehicle to an authorized repair facility, then the owner shall be entitled to have the warranty remedy performed, at the expense of the manufacturer, by any repair facility of the owner's choosing.

(e) The vehicle manufacturer may deny warranty for a failure caused by an uncertified part in accordance with the criteria in §85.2105.

[45 FR 34839, May 22, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32588, Aug. 8, 1989; 88 FR 4473, Jan. 24, 2023]

§85.2109 Inclusion of warranty provisions in owners' manuals and warranty booklets.

(a) A manufacturer shall furnish with each new motor vehicle, a full explanation of the emission warranties required by 42 U.S.C. 7541(a) and (b), including at a minimum the following information:

(1) A basic statement of the coverage of the emissions performance warranty as set out in §85.2103. This shall be separated from any other warranty given by the manufacturer and shall be prefaced by the title “Emissions Performance Warranty” set in bold face type.

(2) A list of all items which are covered by the emission performance warranty for the full useful life of the vehicle. This list shall contain all specified major emission control components. All items listed pursuant to this subsection shall be described in the same manner as they are likely to be described on a service facility work receipt for that vehicle.

(3) A list or a reference to the location of the instructions for proper maintenance and use, together with the time and/or mileage interval at which such instructions are to be performed.

(4) An explanation of the effect that the use of certified parts will have on the emission performance warranty. This explanation shall comport with the provisions of §85.2105 (b) and (c), including a statement in boldface type that maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any automotive repair establishment or individual using any certified part.

(5) Complete instructions as to when and how an owner may bring a claim under the emissions performance warranty, as governed by §§85.2104 and 85.2106. These instructions shall include all the following:

(i) An explanation of the point in time at which a claim may be raised.

(ii) Complete procedures as to the manner in which a claim may be raised.

(iii) The provisions for manufacturer liability contained in §85.2106(f) if the manufacturer fails to respond within the time period set in accordance with §85.2106(d).

(iv) For battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, the manufacturer-defined value for percentage usable battery energy specified in §85.2103(d)(3).

(6) An explanation that an owner may obtain further information concerning the emission warranties or that an owner may report violations of the terms of the emission warranties provided under 42 U.S.C. 7541(a) and (b) by contacting the Director, Compliance Division, Environmental Protection Agency, 2000 Traverwood Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48105 (Attention: Warranty) or email to: complianceinfo@epa.gov .

(b) The warranty information shall be provided in the same document as other warranties provided with the vehicle.

(c) If a separate warranty booklet is provided with the vehicle, the owner's manual shall contain, at a minimum, the following information:

(1) A general list of all warranties covering the vehicle; and

(2) A statement that detailed warranty information can be found in the warranty booklet.

(d) If a separate warranty booklet is not provided with the vehicle, the information specified in paragraph (a) of this section shall be contained in the owner's manual.

[45 FR 34839, May 22, 1980, as amended at 58 FR 65554, Dec. 15, 1993; 81 FR 73973, Oct. 25, 2016; 88 FR 4473, Jan. 24, 2023; 89 FR 28153, Apr. 18, 2024]

§85.2110 Submission of owners' manuals and warranty statements to EPA.

(a) The manufacturer of each vehicle to which this subpart applies must send to EPA an owner's manual and warranty booklet (if applicable) in electronic format for each model vehicle that completely and accurately represent the warranty terms for that vehicle.

(1) The owner's manuals and warranty booklets should be received by EPA 60 days prior to the introduction of the vehicle for sale.

(2) If the manuals and warranty booklets are not in their final format 60 days prior to the introduction of the vehicle for sale, a manufacturer may submit the most recent draft at that time, provided that the manufacturer promptly submits final versions when they are complete.

(b) All materials described in paragraph (a) of this section shall be sent to the Designated Compliance Officer as specified at 40 CFR 1068.30 (Attention: Warranty Booklet).

[45 FR 34839, May 22, 1980, as amended at 58 FR 65554, Dec. 15, 1993; 81 FR 73973, Oct. 25, 2016; 89 FR 28154, Apr. 18, 2024]

§85.2111 Warranty enforcement.

The following acts are prohibited and may subject a manufacturer to a civil penalty as described in paragraph (d) of this section:

(a) Selling or leasing a light duty vehicle without providing in writing the warranty information required by §85.2109;

(b) Failing or refusing to comply with the terms and conditions of the emission warranties provided under 42 U.S.C. 7541(a) and (b) with respect to any vehicle to which this subpart applies. Acts constituting such a failure or refusal shall include, but are not limited to, the following:

(1) Failure to honor a valid warranty claim,

(2) Performance of a warranty repair in a manner which cannot reasonably be expected to allow the vehicle to meet applicable emission standards for the remainder of its useful life,

(3) Failure of a manufacturer to reimburse a dealer or other designated agent for performance of a vehicle repair made pursuant to this subpart, and

(4) Failure of a manufacturer to supply a part necessary to perform a warranty repair within the time limit specified under §85.2106(d), unless such failure is for a reason not attributable to the vehicle manufacturer or the warranty repair facility;

(c) To provide directly or indirectly in any communication to the ultimate purchaser or any subsequent purchaser that emission warranty coverage is conditioned upon the use of any name brand component, or system or upon service (other than a component or service provided without charge under the terms of the purchase agreement), unless the communication is made pursuant to a written waiver by the Office Director.

(d) The maximum penalty value is $37,500 for each offense that occurs after November 2, 2015. Maximum penalty limits may be adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index as described at 40 CFR part 19.

[45 FR 34839, May 22, 1980, as amended at 58 FR 65554, Dec. 15, 1993; 70 FR 40432, July 13, 2005; 88 FR 4473, Jan. 24, 2023]

§85.2112 Applicability.

The provisions of §§85.2112 through 85.2122 apply to emission related automotive aftermarket parts which are to be installed in or on 1968 and later model year light-duty vehicles and light-duty trucks.

[54 FR 32588, Aug. 8, 1989]

§85.2113 Definitions.

As used in this subpart, all terms not defined shall have the meaning given them in the Act:

(a) Act means Part A of Title II of the Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. 7421 et seq. (formerly 42 U.S.C. 1857 et seq.) as amended.

(b) Aftermarket part means any part offered for sale for installation in or on a motor vehicle after such vehicle has left the vehicle manufacturer's production line.

(c) Aftermarket part manufacturer means:

(1) A manufacturer of an aftermarket part or,

(2) A party that markets aftermarket parts under its own brand name, or,

(3) A rebuilder of original equipment or aftermarket parts, or

(4) A party that licenses others to sell its parts.

(d) Agency means the Environmental Protection Agency.

(e) Certified aftermarket part means any aftermarket part which has been certified pursuant to this subpart.

(f) Emission warranty means those warranties given by vehicle manufacturers pursuant to section 207 of the Act.

(g) Emission-critical parameters means those critical parameters and tolerances which, if equivalent from one part to another, will not cause the vehicle to exceed applicable emission standards with such parts installed.

(h) Engine family means the basic classification unit of a vehicle's product line for a single model year used for the purpose of emission-data vehicle or engine selection and as determined in accordance with 40 CFR 86.078-24.

(i) Vehicle or engine configuration means the specific subclassification unit of an engine family or certified part application group as determined by engine displacement, fuel system, engine code, transmission and inertia weight class, as applicable.

(j) Certification vehicle emission margin for a certified engine family means the difference between the EPA emission standards and the average FTP emission test results of that engine family's emission-data vehicles at the projected applicable useful life mileage point (i.e., useful life mileage for light-duty vehicles is 50,000 miles and for light-duty trucks is 120,000 miles for 1985 and later model years or 50,000 miles for 1984 and earlier model years).

(k) Applications means all vehicle or engine configurations for which one part is being certified as set forth in the aftermarket part manufacturer's notification of intent to certify pursuant to §85.2115(a)(1).

[45 FR 78458, Nov. 25, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32588, Aug. 8, 1989]

§85.2114 Basis of certification.

(a) Prior to certifying, the aftermarket part manufacturer must determine:

(1) Whether the part to be certified is an emission related part as defined in §85.2102. The MOD Director shall deny certification to any parts which he or she determines is not an emission related part.

(2) The vehicle or engine configurations for which this part is being certified. These are the vehicle and engine designs for which the aftermarket part manufacturer intends to sell the certified aftermarket part.

(3) Whether the part qualifies under one of the part categories, listed in §85.2122 of this subpart that are eligible to certify using emission critical parameters and, if so, whether the manufacturer elects to demonstrate certification using emission critical parameters. An aftermarket part may be certified under this category only if the part's emission-critical parameters, as set forth in §85.2122, are equivalent to those of the original equipment or previously certified part it is to replace. Compliance with the emission-critical parameters discussed in paragraph (b) of this section may be demonstrated by compliance with the relevant test procedures and criteria specified in appendix I to this subpart. The requirements of this paragraph apply to all on-road vehicles and engines. Alternatively, the manufacturer may elect to demonstrate certification compliance according to the emission test procedures described in paragraph (c) of this section.

(b) For parts eligible to certify using emission-critical parameters, certification compliance can be demonstrated as follows. (1) The durability procedure contained in appendix I to this subpart can be used. As an alternative, the aftermarket part manufacturer may use a different durability procedure if it can demonstrate to the MOD Director that the alternative procedure results in an improved technical evaluation of the part's influence on vehicle or engine emissions for its useful life mileage interval, or results in a significant cost savings to the aftermarket part manufacturer with no loss in technical validity compared to the recommended durability procedure. The aftermarket part manufacturer shall receive the written approval from the MOD Director prior to implementation of the alternative procedures.

(2) Compliance with certification requirements is based on conformance with all emission-critical parameters in §85.2122. This shall be accomplished by performing such procedures, tests, or analyses described in appendix I, or other procedures subject to the MOD Director's approval, necessary to ascertain with a high degree of certainty the emission-critical parameter specifications and tolerances for the aftermarket part and the original equipment or previously certified part for which an equivalent aftermarket certified part is to be used.

(i) If information is available in appendix I of this subpart to identify the applicable emission-critical parameters, the aftermarket part certifier must use such information.

(ii) If sampling and analysis of original equipment or previously certified parts is relied upon, the aftermarket part certifier must use sound statistical sampling techniques to ascertain the mean and range of the applicable emission parameters.

(iii) If an aftermarket part replaces more than one part on the same application, it may be certified only if the aftermarket part meets the applicable emission-critical parameters of §85.2122 for each part or parts which the aftermarket part is to replace. If an aftermarket part is to replace more than one part or an entire system, compliance must be demonstrated for all emission-critical parameters involved, except those which relate solely to the interface between the parts being replaced by the aftermarket part.

(c) For parts certifying on the basis of emission test results, durability demonstration testing shall be conducted as follows. (1) Prior to certification emission testing, the actual aftermarket part used for certification testing must meet the durability demonstration requirements of this paragraph for at least the part's useful life mileage interval.

(i) If an original equipment part has no scheduled replacement interval, then the useful life mileage interval of the aftermarket part of that type or which replaces the function of that part may be certified with a service interval less than the useful life of the motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine, or

(ii) If any provision of 40 CFR part 86 establishes a minimum replacement or service interval for an original equipment part during vehicle or engine certification, then the useful life mileage interval of the aftermarket part of that type or which replaces the function of that part is said minimum interval.

(2) The part manufacturer must decide whether it can demonstrate to the MOD Director that, during normal vehicle operation, the candidate part will not accelerate deterioration of any original equipment emission related parts. This demonstration must be based on technical rationale that shows that the candidate part has no significant physical or operational effect on any original emission components or system which would be different than that experienced by the vehicle operating with all original equipment emission system parts. The part's effect on each major emission system must be addressed separately in the demonstration.

(i) If the aftermarket part to be certified accelerates deterioration of any existing emission related parts then certification shall be carried out as specified under the paragraph (c)(3) of this section for parts that accelerate deterioration of existing emission related parts.

(ii) If the aftermarket part manufacturer can demonstrate that the part to be certified will not accelerate deterioration of any existing emission related components, then the manufacturer can certify according to paragraph (c)(4) in this section for parts demonstrated to not accelerate deterioration of existing emission related parts.

(3) For aftermarket parts that accelerate deterioration of existing emission related parts during normal operation. (i) The aftermarket test part can be installed on the durability test vehicle and aged for 50,000 miles using the vehicle durability driving schedules contained in part 86, appendix IV. As an alternative, the aftermarket part manufacturer may use a different durability procedure if it can demonstrate to the MOD Director that the alternative procedure results in an improved technical evaluation of the part's influence on vehicle or engine emissions for the part's useful life mileage interval, or results in a significant cost savings to the aftermarket part manufacturer with no loss in technical validity compared to the recommended durability schedules in part 86, appendix IV. The aftermarket part manufacturer shall receive the written approval from the MOD Director prior to implementation of the alternative procedures.

Note:

At the time of certification emission testing, the same part and vehicle combination used for mileage accumulation shall be used for emission testing.

(ii) Where the comparable original equipment part has a recommended replacement interval of less than 50,000 miles, the test part shall be replaced no sooner than its useful life mileage interval during the required 50,000 mile durability demonstration.

Note:

At the time of certification emission testing, one of the aftermarket parts that accumulated at least its useful life mileage during the aging process under this paragraph shall be installed on the durability test vehicle that has accumulated 50,000 miles.

(4) For aftermarket parts demonstrated not to accelerate deterioration on existing emission related parts during normal operation, the part manufacturer must determine whether the part will cause a noticeable change in vehicle driveability.

(i) Parts that cause no noticeable change in vehicle driveability, performance, and/or fuel economy when the part fails, the durability driving schedules contained in part 86, appendix IV can be used. As an alternative, the aftermarket part manufacturer may use a different durability procedure if it can demonstrate to the MOD Director that the alternative procedure results in an improved technical evaluation of the part's influence on vehicle or engine emissions for its useful life mileage interval, or results in a significant cost savings to the aftermarket part manufacturer with no loss in technical validity compared to the durability schedules in part 86, appendix IV. The aftermarket part manufacturer shall receive the written approval from the MOD Director prior to implementation of the alternative procedures.

(ii) Parts demonstrated to cause a noticeable change in vehicle driveability, performance, and/or fuel economy when the part fails, are exempt from aging if the part manufacturer can demonstrate to the MOD Director that the primary failure mode of the aftermarket component or system affects the driveability, performance, and/or fuel economy of the vehicle at a level readily detectable by the driver and likely to result in near term repair of failing components and correction of the emissions failure. (Use of on-board diagnostics and malfunction indicators as covered in paragraph (g) of this section is not necessarily an adequate demonstration that the certified part will be replaced. The part manufacturer must demonstrate that the diagnostic and malfunction indicator system will routinely result in repair or replacement of the part in use).

(5) For parts which only affect evaporative emissions performance, the aftermarket part manufacturer shall determine and demonstrate to the MOD Director the appropriate durability procedure to age its part. The demonstration shall include all documentation, analyses, and test results that support this determination, and the documentation that support the durability procedure results shall be submitted with the notification of intent to certify as per §85.2115 and is subject to MOD Director's review.

(6) Durability demonstration vehicle selection. The demonstration vehicle used must represent the “worst case” of all the configurations for which the aftermarket part is being certified. The worst case configuration shall be that configuration which will likely cause the most deterioration in the performance characteristics of the aftermarket part which influence emissions during the part's useful life mileage. The worst case configuration shall be selected from among those configurations for which the aftermarket part is to be certified. One of the following two methods shall be used to select the worst case durability demonstration vehicle(s):

(i) In the first method, the selection shall be based on a technical judgment by the aftermarket part manufacturer of the impact of the particular design, or calibration of a particular parameter or combination of parameters, and/or an analysis of appropriate data, or

(ii) In the second alternative method, the selection shall be made from among those vehicle configurations with the heaviest equivalent test weight, and within that group, the largest displacement engine.

(d) For parts certifying on the basis of emission test results, certification compliance shall be demonstrated as follows. (1) The emission test to be used is the Federal Test Procedure as set forth in the applicable portions of 40 CFR part 86. Certification emission testing must be carried out using representative production aftermarket parts as provided in paragraph (e) of this section. The test results must demonstrate that the proper installation of the certified aftermarket part will not cause the vehicle to fail to meet any applicable Federal emission requirements under section 202 of the Act.

(2) The following portions of the Federal Test Procedure are not required to be performed when certifying a part using emission testing:

(i) The evaporative emissions portion, if the aftermarket manufacturer has an adequate technical basis for believing that the part has no effect on the vehicle's evaporative emissions;

(ii) The exhaust emissions portion, if the part manufacturer has an adequate technical basis for believing that the part has no affect on the vehicle's exhaust emissions; and

(iii) Other portions therein which the part manufacturer believes are not relevant; Provided, That the part manufacturer has requested and been granted a waiver in writing by the MOD Director for excluding such portion.

(3) Exhaust Emission Testing. Certification exhaust emission testing for aftermarket parts shall be carried out in the following manner:

(i) For light duty vehicle parts that accelerate deterioration of existing emission related parts, at least one emission test is required. The test(s) shall be performed according to the Federal Test Procedure on the same test vehicle and aftermarket part combination that was previously aged as required. The results of all tests performed shall be averaged for each emission constituent. The average values shall meet all applicable Federal emission requirements under section 202 of the Act.

(A) For aftermarket parts where the comparable original equipment part has no recommended replacement interval, the same part and vehicle combination used for the durability demonstration shall be used for certification exhaust emission testing.

(B) For aftermarket parts where the comparable original equipment part has a recommended replacement interval of less than 50,000 miles, one of the aftermarket parts that accumulated at least the part's useful life mileage during the durability demonstration must be installed on the durability demonstration vehicle that has accumulated 50,000 miles for certification exhaust emission testing.

(ii) For light duty truck parts that accelerate deterioration of existing emission related parts.

(A) An emission test shall be performed on emission test vehicles at 4000 miles and at 50,000 miles, with the part installed. Exhaust emission deterioration factors for the test vehicle shall be calculated from these two test results. The aftermarket part manufacturer may elect to perform other emission tests at interim mileages. However, any interim tests must be spaced at equal mileage intervals. If more than one test is performed at any one mileage point, then all tests at this point shall be averaged prior to determining the deterioration factor. The deterioration factor shall be calculated using the least squares straight line method, in accordance with §86.088-28(a). The deterioration factor for each emission constituent shall be used to linearly project the 50,000 mile test result out to 120,000 miles. The projected 120,000 mile test result shall meet light duty truck emission standards.

(B) As an option, the light-duty truck part manufacturer may durability age the test vehicle and aftermarket part to 120,000 miles, and then perform one Federal Test Procedure test. The actual test results in this case must pass all Federal emission standards.

(iii) For parts demonstrated to not accelerate deterioration of existing emission related parts during normal operation:

(A) If parts cause no noticeable change in vehicle driveability, performance, and/or fuel economy when the part fails, the certification exhaust emission test vehicle need not be the same vehicle as that used for durability demonstration. Upon completion of aging, one Federal Test Procedure test shall be performed with the aged aftermarket part installed on a test vehicle that has just completed one Federal Test Procedure test in the original equipment configuration (i.e., before the aftermarket part or system is installed). If more than one test is performed either before or after the aftermarket part is installed, then an equivalent number of tests must be performed in both configurations. The results of all tests performed before the part is installed shall be averaged and the results of all tests performed after the part is installed shall be averaged for each emission constituent. The difference in Federal Test Procedure emission results between the tests with the aged aftermarket part installed and the test vehicle in the original equipment configuration shall be less than or equal to the certification vehicle emission margin of any and all of the certification test vehicles from the various configurations for which the aftermarket part is being certified.

(B) For parts demonstrated to cause a noticeable change in vehicle driveability, performance, and/or fuel economy when the part fails, no durability aging of the part is required before certification emission testing. One Federal Test Procedure test shall be performed on the test vehicle in its original equipment configuration (i.e., before the aftermarket part or system is installed) and one test with an aftermarket part representative of production (as provided in paragraph (e) of this section) installed on the test vehicle. If more than one test is performed either before or after the aftermarket part is installed, then an equivalent number of tests must be performed in both configurations. The results of all tests performed with the aftermarket part installed shall be averaged and the results of all tests performed in the original equipment configuration shall be averaged for each emission constituent. The difference in Federal Test Procedure emission results between the tests with the aftermarket part installed and the test vehicle in the original equipment configuration shall be less than or equal to the certification vehicle emission margin of any and all of the certification test vehicles from the various configurations for which the aftermarket part is being certified.

(4) Evaporative emission testing. For parts determined by the part manufacturer (with appropriate technical rationale) to affect only evaporative emissions performance, at least one evaporative emissions portion of the Federal Test Procedure test shall be performed on the vehicle in its original equipment configuration and at least one with the aftermarket part installed. Both the original equipment and aftermarket part shall be aged according to paragraph (c)(5) of this section prior to testing. If more than one test is performed either before or after the aftermarket part is installed, then an equivalent number of tests must be performed in both configurations. The emission results of all tests performed before the part is installed shall be averaged and the emission results of all tests performed after the part is installed shall be averaged. The difference in Federal Test Procedure emission results between the tests with the aged aftermarket part installed and the test vehicle in the original equipment configuration shall be less than or equal to the certification vehicle emission margin of any and all of the certification test vehicles from the various configurations for which the aftermarket part is being certified.

(5) Emission test vehicle selection: The test vehicle used must represent the “worst case” with respect to emissions of all those configurations for which the aftermarket part is being certified. The worst case configuration shall be that configuration which, having the aftermarket part installed, is least likely to meet the applicable emission standards among all those configurations on which the aftermarket part is intended to be installed as a certified aftermarket part. One of the following two methods shall be used to select the worst case emission test vehicle(s):

(i) In the first method, the selection shall be based on a technical judgment by the aftermarket part manufacturer of the impact of the particular design or calibration of a particular parameter or combination of parameters and/or an analysis of appropriate data, or

(ii) In the second alternative method, two defined worst case test vehicles shall be selected from the vehicle configurations using the following criteria:

(A) The first test vehicle is that engine family for which the largest number of parts are projected to be sold. Within that family the manufacturer shall select the configurations with the heaviest equivalent test weight, and then within that group the configuration with the largest displacement engine.

(B) The second test vehicle shall be from a different vehicle manufacturer than the first test vehicle, or if the aftermarket part applies to only one vehicle manufacturer, from a different engine family. Engine families are determined by the vehicle manufacturer or when certifying under 40 CFR part 86. Within that group, the second test vehicle is selected from the vehicle configurations with the heaviest equivalent test weight, and then, within that group, the configuration with the largest displacement engine. If a part applies to only one engine family then only the vehicle specified in paragraph (d)(5)(ii)(A), of this section, is required to be tested.

(iii) The results of certification tests using the worst case vehicle selections made in this section shall only be applicable for configurations that are required to meet the same or less stringent (numerically higher) emission standards than those of the worst case configuration.

(iv) The worst case test vehicle(s) selected for certification emission testing is(are) not required to meet Federal emission standards in its original configuration. However, each test vehicle shall have representative emissions performance that is close to the standards and have no obvious emission defects. Each test vehicle shall be tuned properly and set to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications before testing is performed. Any excessively worn or malfunctioning emission related part shall be repaired prior to testing.

(e) Test part selection. Certification shall be based upon tests utilizing representative production aftermarket parts selected in a random manner in accordance with accepted statistical procedures.

(f) Replacing original equipment parts. Installation of any certified aftermarket part shall not result in the removal or rendering inoperative of any original equipment emission related part other than the part(s) being replaced. Furthermore, installation of any certified aftermarket part shall not require the readjustment of any other emission related part to other than the vehicle manufacturer specifications, cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to the public health, welfare or safety, or result in any additional range of parameter adjustability or accessibility to adjustment than that of the vehicle manufacturer's emission related parts.

(g) Affects on vehicle on board diagnostic system. Installation of any certified aftermarket part shall not alter or render inoperative any feature of the on-board diagnostic system incorporated by the vehicle manufacturer. The certified part may integrate with the existing diagnostic system if it does not alter or render inoperative any features of the system. However, use of on-board diagnostics or warning indicators to alert the driver to part failure is not sufficient by itself to qualify the part for exemption from aging under paragraph (c)(4)(ii) of this section. The part manufacturer must demonstrate that the diagnostic and malfunction indicator system will routinely result in repair or replacement of the aftermarket part in use.

[54 FR 32588, Aug. 8, 1989]

§85.2115 Notification of intent to certify.

(a) At least 45 days prior to the sale of any certified automotive aftermarket part, notification of the intent to certify must be received by the Office Director.

(1) The notification shall include:

(i) Identification of each part to be certified; and.

(ii) Identification of all vehicle or engine configurations for which the part is being certified including make(s), model(s), year(s), engine size(s) and all other specific configuration characteristics necessary to assure that the part will not be installed in any configuration for which it has not been certified; and

(iii) All determinations, demonstrations, technical rationale, and documentation provided in §85.2114; and

(iv) Any and all written waivers and approvals obtained from the MOD director as provided in §85.2114, and any correspondence with EPA regarding certification of that part; and

(v) A description of the tests, techniques, procedures, and results utilized to demonstrate compliance with §85.2114(b) applicable to parts eligible to certify using emission-critical parameters, except that, if the procedure utilized is recommended in appendix I of this subpart, then only a statement to this effect is necessary. A description of all statistical methods and analyses used to determine the emission-critical parameters of the original equipment parts and compliance of the certified part(s) with those parameters including numbers of parts tested, selection criteria, means, variance, etc; and

(vi) All results and documentation of tests and procedures used by the part manufacturer as evidence of compliance with the durability and emission requirements specified in §85.2114; and

(vii) A discussion of the technical basis(es) for foregoing any portion of the Federal Test Procedure when applicable; and

(viii) A description of the test part selection criteria used, and a statement that the test part(s) used for certification testing is(are) a representative production aftermarket part(s) consistent with §85.2114(e); and

(ix) A description of the test and demonstration vehicle selection criteria used, and rationale that supports the technical judgment that the vehicle configurations used for emission testing and durability demonstration represent worst case with respect to emissions of all those configurations for which the aftermarket part is being certified, and all data that supports that conclusion; and

(x) The service intervals of the part, including maintenance and replacement intervals in months and/or miles, as applicable, and a statement indicating whether it is different than the service, maintenance, and replacement interval of the original equipment requirements; and

(xi) A statement, if applicable, that the part will not meet the labeling requirements of §85.2119(a) and the description of the markings the aftermarket manufacturer intends to put on the part in order to comply with §85.2119(b); and

(xii) A statement that the aftermarket part manufacturer accepts, as a condition of certification, the obligation to comply with the warranty requirements and dispute resolution procedures provided in §85.2117; and

(xiii) A statement of commitment and willingness to comply with all the relevant terms and conditions of this subpart; and

(xiv) A statement by the aftermarket part manufacturer that use of its certified part will not cause a substantial increase to vehicle emissions in any normal driving mode not represented during certification or compliance testing; and

(xv) The office or officer of the aftermarket part manufacturer authorized to receive correspondence regarding certification requirements pursuant to this subpart.

(2) The notification shall be signed by an individual attesting to the accuracy and completeness of the information supplied in the notification.

(3) Notification to the Agency shall be by certified mail or another method by which date of receipt can be established.

(4) Two complete and identical copies of the notification and any subsequent industry comments on any such notification shall be submitted by the aftermarket manufacturer to: MOD Director.

(5) A copy of the notification submitted under paragraph (a)(4) of this section will be placed in a public docket. Comments on any notice in the public docket may be made to the MOD Director.

(b) The MOD Director reserves the right to review an application to determine if the submitted documents adequately meet all the requirements for certification specified in §§85.2114 and 85.2115. A part may be sold as certified 45 days after the receipt by the Agency of the notification given pursuant to this subsection provided that the Office Director has not notified the part manufacturer otherwise.

[54 FR 32591, Aug. 8, 1989; 86 FR 34364, Jun. 29, 2021]

§85.2116 Objections to certification.

(a) At any time prior to the end of the 45-day period after a notification of intent to certify an aftermarket part is received as specified in §85.2115, the MOD Director may notify the manufacturer of the aftermarket part that such aftermarket part may not be certified pending further investigation. The basis upon which this notification shall be made may include, but not be limited to, information or test results which indicate:

(1) Compliance with the applicable emission-critical parameters was not achieved or that the testing methods used to demonstrate compliance with the emission-critical parameters were inadequate;

(2) The part is to be certified on the basis of emission testing, and the procedure used in such tests was not in compliance with those portions of the Federal Test Procedure not waived pursuant to §85.2114(d)(2).

(3) Use of the certified part may cause a vehicle to exceed any applicable emission requirements;

(4) The durability requirement of §85.2114 has not been complied with;

(5) Use of the certified part could cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to public health, welfare or safety in its operation or function;

(6) Installation of the certified part requires procedures or equipment which would likely cause it to be improperly installed under normal conditions or would likely result in a vehicle being misadjusted; or

(7) Information and/or data required to be in the notification of intent to certify as provided by §85.2115 have not been provided or may be inadequate; or,

(8) Documentation submitted under §85.2114(c)(4)(ii) was determined inadequate for durability exemption.

(b) The aftermarket part manufacturer must respond in writing to the statements made in the notification by the MOD Director, or the aftermarket part manufacturer shall withdraw its notification of intent to certify.

(1) Any party interested in the outcome of a decision as to whether a part may be certified may provide the MOD Director with any relevant written information up to ten days after the manufacturer responds to the MOD Director's objection.

(2) Any interested party may request additional time to respond to the information submitted by the part manufacturer. The MOD Director upon a showing of good cause by the interested party may grant an extension of time to reply up to 30 days.

(3) The part manufacturer may reply to information submitted by interested parties. Notification of intent to reply shall be submitted to the MOD Director within 10 days of the date information from interested parties is submitted to the MOD Director.

(4) The MOD Director may, at his or her discretion, allow oral presentations by the aftermarket manufacturer or any interested party in connection with a contested part certification.

(c) If an objection has been sent to an aftermarket part manufacturer pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section, the MOD Director shall, after reviewing all pertinent data and information, render a decision and inform the aftermarket part manufacturer in writing as to whether such part may be certified and, if so, under what conditions the part may be certified. The written decision shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor.

(1) The decision by the MOD Director shall be provided to the manufacturer within 30 working days of receipt of all necessary information by the manufacturer or interested parties, or of the date of any oral presentation regarding the certification, whichever occurs second.

(2) A copy of the decision shall be sent to all identified interested parties.

(3) Within 20 days of receipt of a decision made pursuant to this subsection, any party may file a written appeal to the Office Director. The Office Director may, in his or her discretion, allow additional oral or written submissions, prior to rendering a final decision. The schedule for such submission shall be in accordance with the schedule specified in §85.2116(b).

(4) If no party files an appeal with the Office Director within 20 days, then the decision of the MOD Director shall be final.

(5) The Office Director shall make a final decision regarding the certification of a part within 30 working days of receipt of all necessary information by the part manufacturer or from the date of any oral presentation, whichever occurs later.

(6) A copy of all final decisions made under this section shall be published in the Federal Register.

[45 FR 78460, Nov. 25, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32592, Aug. 8, 1989]

§85.2117 Warranty and dispute resolution.

(a) Warranty. (1) As a condition of certification, the aftermarket part manufacturer shall warrant that if the certified part is properly installed it will not cause a vehicle to exceed Federal emission requirements as determined by an emission test approved by EPA under section 207(b)(1) of the Act. This aftermarket part warranty shall extend for the remaining performance warranty period of any vehicle on which the part is installed, or for the warranty period specified for an equivalent original equipment component, if this period is shorter than the remaining warranty period of the vehicle.

(2) The aftermarket part manufacturer's minimum obligation under this warranty shall be to reimburse vehicle manufacturers for all reasonable expenses incurred as a result of honoring a valid emission performance warranty claim which arises because of the use of the certified aftermarket part.

(3) The procedure used to process a certified aftermarket part warranty claim is as follows. The time requirements are in units of calendar days.

(i) The vehicle manufacturer shall submit, by certified mail or another method by which date of receipt can be established, a bill for reasonable expenses incurred to the part manufacturer for reimbursement. Accompanying the bill shall be a letter to the part manufacturer with an explanation of how the certified part caused the failure and a copy of the warranty repair order or receipt establishing the date that the performance repair was initiated by the vehicle owner.

(ii) The parts retained pursuant to §85.2107(c)(1) shall be retained until the reimbursement process is resolved. The vehicle manufacturer shall store these parts or transfer these parts to the involved certified part manufacturer for storage. If the vehicle manufacturer transfers these parts to the certified part manufacturer, the part manufacturer shall retain these parts:

(A) For at least one year from the date of repair involving these parts, if the part manufacturer does not receive a bill from the vehicle manufacturer within that time period, or

(B) Until the claim reimbursement process has been resolved, if the part manufacturer receives a bill from the vehicle manufacturer within one year of the date of repair involving these parts.

(iii) If the vehicle manufacturer transfers the parts retained pursuant to paragraph (a)(3)(ii) of this section to the part manufacturer, a bill shall be submitted to the part manufacturer within one year of the date of initiation of the actual repair by the vehicle owner. If this requirement is not met, the vehicle manufacturer shall forfeit all rights to the reimbursement provisions provided in this regulation.

(iv) Storage costs are not reimbursable as part of a performance warranty claim.

(b) Dispute resolution. (1) The part manufacturer shall respond to the vehicle manufacturer within 30 days of receipt of the bill by paying the claim or requesting a meeting to resolve any disagreement. A meeting shall occur within the next two week period. At this meeting the parties shall, in all good faith, attempt to resolve their disagreement. Discussions should be completed within 60 days of receipt of the bill for the warranty claim by the part manufacturer.

(2) If the parties cannot resolve their disagreement within 60 days, either party may file for arbitration. Neither party may file for arbitration within 60 days unless both parties agree to seek arbitration prior to the end of the 60-day period. If, after 60 days, either party files, then both parties shall submit to arbitration.

(3) This arbitration shall be carried out pursuant to the Arbitration Rules contained in appendix II of this subpart which are based on Commercial Arbitration Rules published by the American Arbitration Association, revised and in effect as of September 1, 1988. The Arbitration Rules detail the procedures to be followed by the parties and the arbitrator in resolving disputes under this section. They can be varied only with the agreement of both parties. If either involved manufacturer refuses to participate in the arbitration process, that party is treated as if it had lost the arbitration and is required to pay all reasonable expenses.

(4) Any party losing the arbitration has the right to resort to an appropriate federal district court or state court, subject to the established rules of that court regarding subject matter jurisdiction and personal jurisdiction.

(5) If the vehicle manufacturer wins the arbitration, the part manufacturer must provide reimbursement in accordance with the arbitrator's award and decision. Such reimbursement must be made within 30 days of the award and decision.

(6)(i) If the part manufacturer refuses to pay a lost arbitration award, the involved part will be decertified pursuant to 40 CFR 85.2121, provided that if the part manufacturer resorts to a court of competent jurisdiction, decertification will be withheld pending the outcome of such judicial determination.

(ii) In addition, under these circumstances, the vehicle manufacturer has the right to bring an enforcement action on the arbitration award and decision in the appropriate federal district court or state court, subject to the established rules of that court regarding subject matter jurisdiction and personal jurisdiction. If this court agrees with the arbitrator's award and decision, reimbursement shall be made within 30 days of the court's decision unless the court orders otherwise.

[54 FR 32592, Aug. 8, 1989]

§85.2118 Changes after certification.

The aftermarket part manufacturer shall be required to recertify any part which:

(a) Was certified pursuant to §85.2114(b) and to which modifications are subsequently made which could affect the results of any test or judgment made that the part meets all of the applicable Emission-Critical Parameters;

(b) Was certified pursuant to §85.2114(c) and to which modifications are made which are likely to affect emissions or the capability of the part to meet any other requirement of this subpart; or

(c) Was certified and is subsequently modified in a manner affecting the durability of the part or any emission control device, engine or the vehicle upon which such part is installed.

[45 FR 78461, Nov. 25, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32593, Aug. 8, 1989]

§85.2119 Labeling requirements.

(a) Except as specified in paragraph (b) of this section, each part certified pursuant to these regulations shall have “Certified to EPA Standards” and the name of the aftermarket part manufacturer or other party designated to determine the validity of warranty claims placed on the part. The name of the aftermarket part manufacturer or other party and the statement, “Certified to EPA Standards,” must be made durable and readable for at least the useful life mileage interval of the part.

(b) In lieu of the name of the aftermarket part manufacturer or other party and “Certified to EPA Standards,” the part may contain unique identification markings. A description of the marking and statement that such marking is intended in lieu of the name of the aftermarket part manufacturer or other party and “Certified to EPA Standards,” shall be made to the Agency in the notification of intent to certify. The unique symbol shall not be used on any uncertified or decertified part built or assembled after the date of decertification.

(c) The package in which the certified aftermarket part is contained must have the following information conspicuously placed thereon:

(1) The statement “Certified by (name of manufacturer or warranter) to EPA Emission Standards”,

(2) A list of the vehicles or engines (in accordance with §85.2115(a)(1)(ii)) for which the part has been certified,

(3) A statement of the maintenance or replacement interval for which the part has been certified, if the interval is of a shorter duration than the interval specified in the written instructions for proper maintenance and use for the original equipment,

(4) A description of the maintenance necessary to be performed on the part in the proper maintenance and use of the part, if such maintenance is in addition to or different from that maintenance necessary on the original equipment part, and

(5) The instructions for proper installation if different from the vehicle manufacturer's recommended installation instruction for that part.

(d) The information required by paragraphs (c)(4) and (5) of this section may be provided on a written insert with the certified aftermarket part if the insert also contains the information required in paragraphs (c) (1), (2) and (3) of this section.

(e) The information required by paragraph (c)(2) of this section may be provided in a catalog rather than on the package or on an insert: Provided, That access to the catalog is readily available to purchasers and installers of the part.

(f) When an aftermarket part manufacturer desires to certify existing in-service stocks of its products, it may do so provided:

(1) The part does not differ in any operational or durability characteristic from the aftermarket parts specified in the notification made pursuant to §85.2115, and

(2) A supplemental information sheet is made available to all parties selling the part.

(i) The supplemental sheet shall be made available in sufficient quantities so that it can be provided with all parts sold as certified, and

(ii) The supplemental sheet shall contain all of the information specified in paragraph (c) of this section.

[45 FR 78461, Nov. 25, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32593, Aug. 8, 1989]

§85.2120 Maintenance and submittal of records.

(a) For each certified aftermarket part, the aftermarket part manufacturer must establish, maintain and retain for 5 years the following adequately organized and indexed records:

(1) Detailed production drawings showing all dimensions, tolerances, performance requirements and material specifications and any other information necessary to completely describe the part;

(2) A description of the testing program, including all production part sampling techniques used to verify compliance of the certified aftermarket part with the applicable Emission-Critical Parameters and durability requirements;

(3) All data obtained during testing of the part and subsequent analyses based on that data, including the milege and the vehicle or engine configuration determinants if emission testing is utilized as the basis for certification;

(4) All information used in determining those vehicles for which the part is represented as being equivalent from an emissions standpoint to the original equipment part;

(5) A description of the quality control plan used to monitor production and assure compliance of the part with the applicable certification requirements;

(6) All data taken in implementing the quality control plan, and any subsequent analyses of that data;

(7) A description of all the methodology, analysis, testing and/or sampling techniques used to ascertain the emission critical parameter specifications of the originial equipment part; and

(8) All in-service data, analyses performed by the manufacturer and correspondence with vendors, distributors, consumers, retail outlets or vehicle manufacturers regarding any design, production or in-service problems associated with 25 or more of any certified part.

(b) The records required to be maintained in paragraph (a) of this section shall be made available to the Agency upon the written request of the MOD Director.

(c) For parts certified only for vehicles with less than 5 years of emission performance warranty coverage remaining, records must be kept for 3 years or until they determine that approximately 80% of the applicable vehicles are outside the warranty period, whichever occurs second.

(d) This section shall expire 5 years from the effective date of this regulation unless renewed prior to that date.

[45 FR 78461, Nov. 25, 1980]

§85.2121 Decertification.

(a) The MOD Director may notify an aftermarket part manufacturer that the Agency has made a preliminary determination that one or more parts should be decertified.

(1) Such a preliminary determination may be made if there is reason to believe that the part manufactured has failed to comply with §§85.2112 through 85.2122. Information upon which such a determination will be made includes but is not limited to the following.

(i) Tests required to be performed to demonstrate compliance of the part with the applicable Emission-Critical Parameters

(A) Were not performed on the part(s), or

(B) Were insufficient to demonstrate compliance;

(ii) The part was certified on the basis of emission tests, and

(A) The procedures used in such tests were not in substantial compliance with a portion or portions of the Federal Test Procedure which were not waived pursuant to §85.2114(d);

(B) The emission results were not in compliance with the requirements of §85.2114(d); or

(C) The procedures used for part aging for durability demonstration were not in substantial compliance with the durability cycle required by §85.2114.

(iii) Use of the certified part is causing vehicle emissions to exceed emission requirements for any regulated pollutant;

(iv) Use of the certified part causes or contributes to an unreasonable risk to public health, welfare or safety or severely degrades drivability operation or function;

(v) The part has been modified in a manner requiring recertification pursuant to §85.2118; or

(vi) The manufacturer of such parts has not established, maintained or retained the records required pursuant to §85.2120 or fails to make the records available to the MOD Director upon written request pursuant to §85.2120.

(vii) Documentation required to support the type of durability demonstration used for a part under §85.2114:

(A) Were not submitted for the part, or

(B) Were insufficient to justify a claim of durability exemption status.

(viii) The aftermarket part manufacturer failed to pay a lost arbitration settlement within 30 days of the arbitrator's decision or within 30 days after completion of judicial review, if any.

(2) Notice of a preliminary determination to decertify shall contain:

(i) A description of the noncomplying part(s);

(ii) The basis for the MOD Director's preliminary decision; and

(iii) The date by which the manufacturer must

(A) Terminate the sale of the part as a certified part, or

(B) Make the necessary change (if so recommended by the Agency), and

(C) Request an opportunity in writing to dispute the allegations of the preliminary decertification.

(b) If the aftermarket part manufacturer requests an opportunity to respond to the preliminary determination, the manufacturer and other parties interested in the MOD Director's decision whether to decertify a part may, within 15 days of the date of the request, submit written presentations, including the relevant information and data, to the MOD Director. The MOD Director, in his or her discretion, may provide an opportunity for oral presentations.

(1) Any interested party may request additional time to respond to the information submitted by the part manufacturer. The MOD Director upon a showing of good cause by the interested party may grant an extension of time to reply up to 30 days.

(2) The part manufacturer may have an extension of up to 30 days to reply to information submitted by interested parties. Notification of intent to reply shall be submitted to the MOD Director within 10 days of the date information from interested parties is submitted to the MOD Director.

(c) If a part manufacturer has disputed the allegations of the preliminary decisions, the MOD Director shall, after reviewing any additional information, notify the aftermarket part manufacturer of his or her decision whether the part may continue to be sold as certified. This notification shall include an explanation upon which the decision was made and the effective date for decertification, where appropriate.

(d) Within 20 days from the date of a decision made pursuant to paragraph (c) of this section, any adversely affected party may appeal the decision to the Office Director.

(1) A petition for appeal to the Office Director must state all of the reasons why the decision of the MOD Director should be reversed.

(2) The Office Director may, in his or her discretion, allow additional oral or written testimony.

(3) If no appeal is filed with the Office Director within the permitted time period, the decision of the MOD Director shall be final.

(e) If a final decision is made to decertify a part under paragraph (d) of this section, the manufacturer of such part shall notify his immediate customers (other than retail customers) that, as of the date of the final determination, the part in question has been decertified. The part manufacturer shall offer to replace decertified parts in the customer's inventory with certified replacement parts or, if unable to do so, shall at the customer's request repurchase such inventory at a reasonable price.

(f) Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph (e) of this section, a part purchased by a vehicle owner as certified, shall be considered certified pursuant to this subpart.

[45 FR 78462, Nov. 25, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32593, Aug. 8, 1989]

§85.2122 Emission-critical parameters.

(a) The following parts may be certified in accordance with §85.2114(b):

(1) Carburetor Vacuum Break (Choke Pull-Off). (i) The emission-critical parameters for carburetor vacuum breaks are:

(A) Diaphragm Displacement.

(B) Timed Delay.

(C) Modulated Stem Displacement.

(D) Modulated Stem Displacement Force.

(E) Vacuum Leakage.

(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph:

(A) “Diaphragm Displacement” means the distance through which the center of the diaphragm moves when activated. In the case of a non-modulated stem, diaphragm displacement corresponds to stem displacement.

(B) “Timed Delay” means a delayed diaphragm displacement controlled to occur within a given time period.

(C) “Modulated Stem Displacement” means the distance through which the modulated stem may move when actuated independent of diaphragm displacement.

(D) “Modulated Stem Displacement Force” means the amount of force required at start and finish of a modulated stem displacement.

(E) “Vacuum Leakage” means leakage into the vacuum cavity of a vacuum break.

(F) “Vacuum Break” (“Choke Pull-off”) means a vacuum-operated device to open the carburetor choke plate a predetermined amount on cold start.

(G) “Modulated Stem” means a stem attached to the vacuum break diaphragm in such a manner as to allow stem displacement independent of diaphragm displacement.

(H) “Vacuum Purge System” means a vacuum system with a controlled air flow to purge the vacuum system of undesirable manifold vapors.

(2) Carburetor Choke Thermostats. (i) The emission-critical parameters for all Choke Thermostats are:

(A) Thermal Deflection Rate.

(B) Mechanical Torque Rate.

(C) Index Mark Position.

(ii) The emission-critical parameters for Electrically-Heated Choke Thermostats are:

(A) Those parameters set forth in paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this section

(B) Time to rotate coil tang when electrically energized

(C) Electrical circuit resistance

(D) Electrical switching temperature

(iii) For the purpose of this paragraph:

(A) “Choke” means a device to restrict air flow into a carburetor in order to enrich the air/fuel mixture delivered to the engine by the carburetor during cold-engine start and cold-engine operation.

(B) “Thermostat” means a temperature-actuated device.

(C) “Electrically-heated Choke” means a device which contains a means for applying heat to the thermostatic coil by electrical current.

(D) “Thermostatic Coil” means a spiral-wound coil of thermally-sensitive material which provides rotary force (torque) and/or displacement as a function of applied temperature.

(E) “Thermostatic Switch” means an element of thermally-sensitive material which acts to open or close an electrical circuit as a function of temperature.

(F) “Mechanical Torque Rate” means a term applied to a thermostatic coil, defined as the torque accumulation per angular degree of deflection of a thermostatic coil.

(G) “Thermal Deflection Rate” means the angular degrees of rotation per degree of temperature change of the thermostatic coil.

(H) “Index or Index Mark” means a mark on a choke thermostat housing, located in a fixed relationship to the thermostatic coil tang position to aid in assembly and service adjustment of the choke.

(I) “PTC Type Choke Heaters” means a positive termperature coefficient resistant ceramic disc capable of providing heat to the thermostatic coil when electrically energized.

(3) Carburetor Accelerator Pumps. (i) The emission-critical parameter for accelerator pumps (plungers or diaphragms) is the average volume of fuel delivered per stroke by the pump within prescribed time limits.

(ii) For the purpose of this paragraph an “Accelerator Pump (Plunger or Diaphragm)” means a device used to provide a supplemental supply of fuel during increasing throttle opening as required.

(4) Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valves. (i) The emission-critical parameter for a PCV valve is the volume of flow as a function of pressure differential across the valve.

(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph a “PCV Valve” means a device to control the flow of blow-by gasses and fresh air from the crankcase to the fuel induction system of the engine.

(5) Breaker Points. (i) The emission-critical parameters for breaker points are:

(A) Bounce.

(B) Dwell Angle.

(C) Contact Resistance.

(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph:

(A) “Breaker Point” means a mechanical switch operated by the distributor cam to establish and interrupt the primary ignition coil current.

(B) “Bounce” means unscheduled point contact opening(s) after initial closure and before scheduled reopening.

(C) “Dwell Angle” means the number of degrees of distributor mechanical rotation during which the breaker points are conducting current.

(D) “Contact Resistance” means the opposition to the flow of current between the mounting bracket and the insulated terminal.

(6) Capacitors/Condensers. (i) The emission-critical parameters for capacitors/condensers are:

(A) Capacitance.

(B) Series Resistance.

(C) Breakdown Voltage.

(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph:

(A) “Capacitance” means the property of a device which permits storage of electrically-separated charges when differences in electrical potential exist between the conductors and measured as the ratio of stored charge to the difference in electrical potential between conductors.

(B) “Series Resistance” means the sum of resistances from the condenser plates to the condenser's external connections.

(C) “Breakdown Voltage” means the voltage level at which the capacitor fails.

(D) “Capacitor/Condenser” means a device for the storage of electrical energy consisting of two oppositely charged conducting plates separated by a dielectric and which resists the flow of direct current.

(7) Distributor Caps and/or Rotors. (i) The emission-critical parameters for distributor caps and/or rotors are:

(A) Physical and Thermal Integrity.

(B) Dielectric Strength.

(C) Flashover.

(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph:

(A) “Flashover” means the discharge of ignition voltage across the surface of the distributor cap and/or rotor rather than at the spark plug gap.

(B) “Dielectric Strength” means the ability of the material of the cap and/or rotor to resist the flow of electric current.

(C) “Physical and Thermal Integrity” means the ability of the material of the cap and/or rotor to resist physical and thermal breakdown.

(8) Spark Plugs. (i) The emission critical parameters for spark plugs are:

(A) Heat Rating.

(B) Gap Spacing.

(C) Gap Location.

(D) Flashover.

(E) Dielectric Strength.

(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph:

(A) “Spark Plug” means a device to suitably deliver high tension electrical ignition voltage to the spark gap in the engine combustion chamber.

(B) “Heat Rating” means that measurement of engine indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) value obtained on the engine at a point when the supercharge pressure is 25.4mm (one inch) Hg below the preignition point of the spark plug, as rated according to SAE J549A Recommended Practice.

(C) “Gap Spacing” means the distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode where the high voltage ignition arc is discharged.

(D) “Gap Location” means the position of the electrode gap in the combustion chamber.

(E) “Dielectric Strength” means the ability of the spark plug's ceramic insulator material to resist electrical breakdown.

(F) “Flashover” means the discharge of ignition voltage at any point other than at the spark plug gap.

(9) Inductive System Coils. (i) The emission-critical parameters for inductive system coils are:

(A) Open Circuit Voltage Output.

(B) Dielectric Strength.

(C) Flashover.

(D) Rise Time.

(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph:

(A) “Coil” means a device used to provide high voltage in an inductive ignition system.

(B) “Flashover” means the discharge of ignition voltage across the coil.

(C) “Dielectric Strength” means the ability of the material of the coil to resist electrical breakdown.

(D) “Rise Time” means the time required for the spark voltage to increase from 10% to 90% of its maximum value.

(10) Primary Resistors. (i) The emission-critical parameter for primary resistors is the DC resistance.

(ii) For the purpose of this paragraph, a “Primary Resistor” means a device used in the primary circuit of an inductive ignition system to limit the flow of current.

(11) Breaker Point Distributors. (i) The emission-critical parameters for breaker point distributors are:

(A) Spark Timing.

(1) Centrifugal Advance Characteristics.

(2) Vacuum Advance Characteristics.

(B) Dwell Angle.

(C) Breaker point contact operation.

(D) Electrical resistance to ground.

(E) Capacity for compatibility with generally available original equipment and certified replacement parts listed in §85.2112(a) (5), (6), (7), and (9).

(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph:

(A) “Distributor” means a device for directing the secondary current from the induction coil to the spark plugs at the proper intervals and in the proper firing order.

(B) “Distributor Firing Angle” means the angular relationship of breaker point opening from one opening to the next in the firing sequence.

(C) “Dwell Angle” means the number of degrees of distributor mechanical rotation during which the breaker points are capable of conducting current.

(12) Engine Valves. [Reserved]

(13) Camshafts. [Reserved]

(14) Pistons. [Reserved]

(15) Oxidizing Catalytic Converter. (i) The emission-critical parameters for oxidizing catalytic converters are:

(A) Conversion Efficiency.

(B) Light-off Time.

(C) Mechanical and Thermal Integrity.

(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph including the relevant test procedures in the appendix:

(A) “Catalytic Converter” means a device installed in the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine that utilizes catalytic action to oxidize hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions to carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O).

(B) “Conversion Efficiency” means the measure of the catalytic converter's ability to oxidize HC/CO to CO₂/H₂O under fully warmed-up conditions stated as a percentage calculated by the following formula:

(C) “Light-off Time” or “LOT” means the time required for a catalytic converter (at ambient temperature 68-86°F) to warm-up sufficiently to convert 50% of the incoming HC and CO to CO₂ and H₂ O.

(D) “Peak Air Flow” means the maximum engine intake mass air flow rate measure during the 195 second to 202 second time interval of the Federal Test Procedure.

(E) “Feed Gas” means the chemical composition of the exhaust gas measured at the converter inlet.

(F) “Aged Catalytic Converter” means a converter that has been installed on a vehicle or engine stand and operated thru a cycle specifically designed to chemically age, including exposure to representative lead concentrations, and mechanically stress the catalytic converter in a manner representative of in-use vehicle or engine conditions.

(G) “Mechanical and Thermal Intergrity” means the ability of a converter to continue to operate at its previously determined efficiency and light-off time and be free from exhaust leaks when subject to thermal and mechanical stresses representative of the intended application.

(16) Air Cleaner Filter Element. (i) The emission-critical parameters for Air Cleaner Filter Elements are:

(A) Pressure drop.

(B) Efficiency.

(ii) For the purpose of this paragraph:

(A) “Air Cleaner Filter Element” means a device to remove particulates from the primary air that enters the air induction system of the engine.

(B) “Pressure Drop” means a measure, in kilopascals, of the difference in static pressure measured immediately upstream and downstream of the air filter element.

(C) “Efficiency” means the ability of the air cleaner or the unit under test to remove contaminant.

(17) Electronic Inductive Ignition System and Components. [Reserved]

(18) Electronic Inductive Distributors. [Reserved]

(b) Additional part standards. [Reserved]

[45 FR 78462, Nov. 25, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32593, Aug. 8, 1989]

§85.2123 Treatment of confidential information.

The provisions of 40 CFR 1068.10 and 1068.11 apply for information you submit under this subpart.

[50 FR 34798, Aug. 27, 1985; 88 FR 4473, Jan. 24, 2023]

Appendix I to Subpart V of Part 85 - Recommended Test Procedures and Test Criteria and Recommended Durability Procedures To Demonstrate Compliance With Emission Critical Parameters

A. Carburetor Vacuum Break (Choke Pull-Off)

1. Test Procedure and Criteria

a. Vacuum leakage: Apply 457 ±13 mm (18.0 ±0.5 inches) Hg. vacuum to the vacuum unit to achieve full diaphragm displacement. Seal vacuum source to unit. There shall be no visible loss of diaphragm displacement or drop in vacuum gauge reading after a 15 second observation. Vacuum purge system and diaphragm displacement adjusting screw holes should be temporarily sealed during this test when applicable.

b. Diaphragm displacement: At stabilized temperature of −29°C and 121°C (−20°F and 250°F) with 457 ±13 mm (18.0 ±0.5 inches) Hg. vacuum applied to unit, the diaphragm displacement shall be within ±1 mm (0.04 inches) of the nominal original equipment displacement. The vacuum purge system must be open during this test when applicable. Adjusting screws that limit displacement should be temporarily removed and adjusting screw holes temporarily sealed during this test.

c. Timed delay (when applicable): With 457 ±13 mm (18.0 ±0.5 inches) Hg. applied to the unit, the vacuum break diaphragm displacement shall occur within ±20% of the original equipment time over the specified range of displacement. The diaphragm displacement shall be timed over the same distance for the original equipment as the replacement part and shall not be less than 60% of the total displacement range. The vacuum purge system must be open and the adjusting screw holes should be temporarily sealed during this test when applicable.

d. Modulated stem displacement (when applicable): With a force sufficient to extend the modulated stem to its full displacement, the displacement shall be within ±0.8 mm (±0.03 inches) of the original equipment specification.

e. Modulated stem displacement force (when applicable): The force required to start and finish the modulated stem displacement shall be within ±35% of the original equipment specification for forces up to 142 grams (5 ounces) and shall be within ±20% of the original equipment specification for forces exceeding 142 grams (5 ounces).

2. Durability Procedures: After 250,000 full displacement cycles (from atmospheric pressure to a minimum of 530mm (21 inches) Hg. vacuum at a temperature of 79°C (175°F)) in air, the following conditions shall be met:

a. Diaphragm displacement shall not degrade more than 10% from the original test measurements of paragraph 1.b. above.

b. Timed delay shall not degrade more than 10% from the original test measurement in paragraph 1.c. above.

c. Following these tests, the units must be free of visible defects.

B. Carburetor Choke Thermostats

1. Test Procedures and Criteria

a. All chokes

i. Thermal deflection rate

When tested on a suitable fixture, the deflection rate shall be within ±6% of the original equipment value. The initial temperature and final temperature for purposes of this test may vary but shall exhibit a test temperature range of at least 44°C (80°F). Recommended test equipment, test procedures, and associated calculations are outlined in ASTM B389 (latest revision) or American National Standards Institute Z155-20.

ii. Mechanical torque rate

When tested on a suitable fixture, the torque rate shall be within ±12% of the mean original equipment value. Recommended test equipment, test procedures, and associated calculations are outlined in ASTM B362 (latest revision) or American National Standards Institute Z155-18 (latest revision).

iii. Index mark position

When stabilized for four hours at room temperature, the relative position of the thermostatic coil outer tang or loop and the index mark, when corrected to 24°C (75°F), shall be within ±5 angular degrees of the mean original equipment positions.

b. Electrically-heated Chokes

i. Time to rotate coil tang

When tested on a suitable fixture, the time to rotate through a prescribed angle at a prescribed temperature and prescribed voltage, for the specfic choke device under test shall be within ±12 seconds or ±25% of the mean original equipment value whichever is greater.

ii. Electrical circuit resistance

In an electrically-heated choke utilizing PTC type choke heater, the circuit resistance shall be within ±1.5 ohms of the mean original equipment value at 24 ±3°C (75° ±5°F) unenergized.

iii. Electrical switching temperature

In an electrically heated choke thermostat utilizing a thermostatic disc switch in the electrical circuit, the temperature to open the circuit shall be within ±5.5°C (10°F) and the temperature to close the circuit shall be within ±11°C (20°F) of the mean original equipment value. Circuit opening temperature shall be measured on a decreasing temperature change, and the circuit closing temperature shall be measured on an increasing temperature change.

C. Carburetor Accelerator Pumps

1. Test Procedure and Criteria

a. Expose plunger or diaphragm assembly to temperatures of −30°C (−20°F) for 70 hours and at 70°C (158°F) for 24 hours, with a commercial grade fuel or equivalent.

b. Within one hour after temperature exposure of 1.a. above, each plunger or diaphragm assembly, when installed in an applicable carburetor or test fixture, shall at room temperature deliver a volume of test fluid (Stoddard solvent or equivalent) from a 10 stroke cycle,* within ±30% of the volume from a 10 stroke cycle of an original equipment plunger or diaphragm assembly.

*10 stroke cycle: 10 strokes from closed throttle plate position to wide open throttle plate position occurring within a 15-25 second time period.

2. Durability Procedure: After 250,000 operational cycles, at approximately 30 cycles per minute at room temperature in test fluid, the output of the plunger/diaphragm shall not drop below 90% of the low limit as established in 1.b.

D. Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve

1. Test Procedure and Criteria

a. Measure the flow of the PCV valve in standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM) vs. pressure differential across the valve over a range of operating pressures from 4-22 inches Hg., at standard atmospheric conditions (21.1°C (70°F) at 755mm (29.92 inches).

b. A PCV valve shall flow within the vehicle manufacturer's specifications or shall meet the following criteria: Whenever the mean of the original equipment flow curve is below 1 SCFM, a maximum deviation of the mean replacement PCV valve shall not exceed ±0.1 SCFM. Whenever the mean original equipment curve is equal to or greater than 1 SCFM, a maximum deviation of the mean of the replacement PCV valve shall not exceed ±10%. The total flow tolerance of the replacement valve shall not exceed the original equipment variation from the mean, at any pressure differential.

2. Durability Procedure: The flow of any specific PCV valve must not deviate from the flow curve of the original equipment PCV valve by more than the total original allowable tolerance when each is similarly operated in the intended vehicle application over the service interval stated by the certifier.

E. Breaker Points

1. Test Procedures and Criteria

a. Set up test system circuit and equipment per Figure 1 with an OE breaker point assembly. Connect the primary to a 14 ±.5 V DC regulated power supply.

b. Record dwell angle and open-circuit output voltage at 300 and 500 distributor rpm and at 500 rpm intervals up to the maximum speed of the intended application.

c. Insert the replacement part in the test system and repeat the observations per b above under identical test conditions.

d. The data observed with the replacement part in the system must meet the following criteria:

(1) The dwell angle change: Not to exceed that of the original equipment by more than ±2° at all measured rpm intervals.

(2) The open circuit output voltage (M-3): Not less than 90% of the OE breaker point assembly at any measured rpm.

e. Repeat step c above at −40°C (−40°F) and 100°C (212°F).

f. The breaker points shall operate without evidence of point bounce at all test speeds and temperatures and shall operate easily without binding when operated manually.

2. Durability Procedures

a. Set up a bench ignition system using an applicable distributor or electro-mechanical equivalent.

b. Install the breaker point assembly under test in the distributor, lubricate and adjust per applicable vehicle manufacturer's specifications. Use applicable coil, primary resistor, capacitor, cap and rotor.

c. Connect the primary of the test system with a power supply regulated at 14 ±0.5 V DC for a 12V system.

d. The secondary portion of the test system is to be connected to a 12 ±2KV spark gap.

e. An external heat source shall generate an ambient temperature of 70° (158°F) for the distributor.

f. Drive the distributor at 1750 ±50 rpm for 200 hours. After each 50 hour interval, run the distributor for 5 minutes with one open circuit spark gap instead of a 12KV gap.

g. The replacement breaker point assembly must have the capability of performing throughout the duration of the test without evidence of any failure resulting in loss of spark in the 12KV spark gap.

h. After the 200 hours repeat step 1.c. above. The open circuit output voltage must be at least 90% of that measured in 1.c.

F. Capacitors/Condensers

1. Test Procedures and Criteria

a. The electrostatic capacitance of the replacement condenser shall be within ±20% of the value of the original part at 20 ±3°C (68 ±5°F). The capacitance is to be measured on a capacitance bridge having an accuracy of ±1% at 1 KHz frequency.

b. Set up the test system in accordance with Figure 1. The condenser series resistance shall be such that the output voltage at 500 distributor rpm with the replacement condenser shall not be less than 90% of the output voltage (M-3) with the original equipment condenser.

c. The capacitor must be able to withstand a minimum test voltage of 500V DC for a minimum of 0.1 seconds without failure.

d. (1) Measure capacitance after 4 hours minimum soak at 70° (158°F).

(2) After one hour at room temperature, place capacitor at −18°C (0°F) for 4 hours minimum and measure capacitance.

(3) Place capacitor at room temperature for 4 hours minimum and measure capacitance.

e. After thermal cycling, repeat 1.a. and b. The results must be within ±10 percent of the intital measurements.

2. Durability Procedure

a. Set up a bench ignition system using an applicable distributor or an electro-mechanical equivalent.

b. Install the capacitor under test in the distributor adjusted to applicable vehicle manufacturer's specifications. Use applicable coil, primary resistor, breaker points, cap and rotor.

c. Connect the primary of the test system with a power supply regulated at 14 ±0.5V DC for 12V system.

d. The secondary portion of the test system is to be connected to a 12 ±2KV spark gap.

e. An external heat source shall generate an ambient temperature of 70°C (158°F) for the distributor.

f. Drive the distributor at 1750 ±50 rpm for 200 hours. After each 50 hour interval, run the distributor for 5 minutes with one open circuit spark gap instead of a 12KV gap.

g. The replacement part must have the capability of performing throughout the duration of the test without evidence of any failure resulting in loss of spark in the 12KV spark gap.

h. After the 200 hours, the condenser shall be within 10 percent of the capacitance and voltage measured in 1.a. and b. respectively.

G. Distributor Caps and/or Rotors

1. Test Procedures and Criteria

a. Set up test system in accordance with the circuit and equipment per Figure 1 with OE distributor cap and/or rotor. Connect the primary to a 14 ±.5V DC regulated power supply.

b. Record open circuit output voltage (M-3) at 300 and 500 distributor rpm and at intervals of 500 distributor rpm up to the maximum speed of the intended application.

c. Insert the intended replacement part(s) in the system and repeat step b. above under identical test conditions.

d. Subject the intended replacement part to the following thermal sequence through five complete cycles:

1. 12 hours at −40°C (−40°F)

2. 2 hours at room temperature

3. 4 hours at 100°C (212°F)

4. 2 hours at room temperature.

e. Repeat step b. above with the replacement part(s).

f. The output voltages measured with the replacement part(s) in the system must be at least 90% of the output voltage with the OE cap and/or rotor.

2. Durability Procedures

a. Set up test system in accordance with circuit and equipment per Figure 1.

b. Install the cap and/or rotor under test in distributor, lubricate and adjust per applicable vehicle manufacturer's specifications. Use equivalent coil, primary resistor, breaker points and capacitor.

c. Connect the primary of the test system with a power supply regulated at 14 ±0.5 V D.C.

1. In breaker point operated systems, connect secondary to a 12 KV±2 KV gap.

2. In electronic ignition systems, connect secondary to a gap equivalent to at least 50% of peak open-circuit voltage.

d. An external heat source shall generate an ambient temperature of 70° (158°F) for the distributor.

e. Distributor shall be driven at 1750 ±50 rpm for 200 hours. After each 50 hours interval, run the distributor for 5 minutes with one open-circuit spark gap instead of a 12KV gap.

f. The replacement part(s) must have the capability of performing throughout the duration of the test without evidence of any failure resulting in loss of spark at the spark gap.

g. Repeat step 1.c. above. The open circuit output voltage must be at least 90% of that measured in step 1.c.

h. The replacement cap and/or rotor must be free of any visual cracks, arcing or melting.

H. Spark Plugs

1. Test Procedures and Criteria

a. Heat rating: When comparatively rated in the SAE 17.6 Spark Plug Rating engine according to the SAE J549A Recommended Practice, the comparative average rating of at least five (5) replacement spark plugs shall be within 15 percent of the average IMEP of at least five (5) OE spark plugs.

b. Gap spacing: The electrode spark gap shall be equivalent or adjustable to the recommended gap for the original equipment spark plug.

c. Gap location: The electrode gap position in the chamber shall be the same as specified by the vehicle manufacturer.

d. Flashover: The spark plug terminal end, with the properly fitted connecting boot, shall not flash-over at peak anticipated voltage for the intended application when electrode gap is 15% larger than vehicle manufacturer's gap specifications.

I. Inductive System Coils

1. Test Procedures and Criteria

a. Set up the circuit in accordance with Figure 1. Operate the circuit by an applicable distributor or equivalent triggering device and applicable primarly resistor with a 50 pf load at 14.0 ±0.50 volts DC input as applicable and stabilized at an ambient temperature of 20°C ±3°C (68°F ±5°F).

b. With the original equipment coil installed, record the predominant minimum peak voltage and rise time at 300 and 500 distributor rpm, and at 500 rpm intervals up to the maximum intended operating speed. The measurement is to be taken after 4 minutes operation at each speed.

c. Install the replacement coil to be tested and repeat step b. above.

d. The replacement coil shall have an open-circuit output voltage (M-3) at least 90% of the OE coil output voltage and a rise time not to exceed 110% of original equipment coil at each distributor test speed.

2. Durability Procedure

a. Install the replacement ignition coil in the ignition system using the applicable rotor, cap, capacitor, breaker points, and primary resistor.

b. Operate the circuit with a regulated power supply of 14.0 ±.5 volts DC connected to the primary at an ambient temperature of 70°C (158°F) at 1750 ±50 distributor rpm for a duration of 200 hours. After each 50 hour interval, run the distributor for 5 minutes with one open-circuit spark gap instead of a 12KV gap.

c. The ignition coil shall perform throughout the test without any evidence of coil failure which would result in the loss of the spark in the 12 KV spark gap.

d. Repeat Step 1.c. above. The open-circuit output voltage must be at least 90% of that measured in 1.c.

J. Primary Resistors

1. Test Procedures and Criteria.

a. Configure the circuit shown in Figure 2, using the original equipment resistor.

b. At 20 ±3°C (68 ±5°F), apply voltage for 15 minutes; maintain current at 2.5 amps. At conclusion of 15 minutes, read voltage and current. Calculate resistance using the relationship

R = E/I,

where:

R = Resistance in ohms,

E = Voltage (V) in volts,

I = Current (A) in amps.

c. Replace OE test sample with part to be certified and repeat step b. above.

d. Resistance of the part shall be within ±20% of original equipment resistance.

2. Durability Procedure.

a. Using the circuit shown in Figure 1, apply current at 70°C (150°F), for 200 hours.

b. After 200 hours retest as in step 1.c. above, and verify that resistance is within ±20% of the value as measured in step 1.b. above.

K. Distributors - Breaker Point

1. Test Procedures and Criteria.

a. Using an appropriate test installation, operate the distributor through its intended speed range.

b. The advance mechanism shall function within the tolerance of the vehicle manufacturer's original specification over the speed range of the intended application as to vacuum and centrifugal advance.

c. The advance mechanism shall repeatedly return to the zero setting

±0.5 distributor degrees after advancing and retarding through the operating range.

d. The distributor firing angle accuracy shall remain within the originally specified tolerances throughout the speed range of the intended application.

e. The distributor shall be capable of maintaining the dwell angle of the original equipment specification with ±2 degrees throughout the speed range of the intended application.

f. The distributor shall be capable of open-circuit output voltage (M-3) equal to at leat 90 percent of the voltage produced by the original equipment system over the speed range of the intended application.

2. Durability Procedure.

a. At an ambient temperature of 70°C (150°F), operate the distributor at 1750 ±50 rpm for 200 hours.

b. The distributor must meet the requirements of paragraph 1.b. through f. after the 200 hours.

L. Reserved for Engine Valves

M. Reserved for Camshafts

N. Reserved for Pistons

O. Oxidizing Catalytic Converters

1. Test Procedures and Criteria.

(a) The fresh and aged conversion efficiencies of the replacement oxidizing catalytic converter shall be equal to or exceed those of the original equipment converter for CO and HC emissions. The fresh and aged Light-off Time (LOT) of the replacement converter shall be equal to or less than those of the original equipment converter for CO and HC emissions. These parameters shall be determined for both fresh and aged converters under the same conditions using the following steady state feed gas concentrations and conditions for LOT and Conversion Efficiency respectively:

Note 1:

Not less than peak air flow of the vehicle or engine configuration being certified for. If more than one vehicle or engine application is to be covered by a generic converter, the greatest peak vehicle or engine air flow shall be used.

Note 2:

Between 0.10 and 0.40 times the value determined in Note 1.

Note 3:

500-2000 parts per million by volume minimum based on Methane calibration. If a non-engine simulator gas source is used, a mixture ratio of 10% propane to 90% propylene by volume will constitute an acceptable synthetic for total exhaust hydrocarbons.

(i) LOT tests shall be conducted by exposing the converter to a step change in temperature, from ambient to that specified above: 650°-850°F. Converter inlet and outlet exhaust emissions as measured. Light-off Time is then determined by recording the time required for the converter to reduce the outlet emissions (HC and CO) to 50% of the inlet emissions, on a volumetric concentration basis, measured from the step temperature change.

(ii) Conversion efficiency measurements shall be obtained by passing stabilized-feed gas through the converter (at conditions specified above) and making simultaneous measurements of inlet and outlet emission volume concentrations. The conversion efficiency for CO and HC is then calculated.

(iii) The particular conditions for which LOT and conversion efficiency are measured (i.e., exhaust mass flow rate, total hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, hydrogen, oxygen, and converter inlet temperature) for the replacement converter and original equipment converter tests must not vary from one another by more than 10%.

(b) Fresh and aged catalytic converters may be obtained by operating the converter on individual vehicle or engine application for which it is intended on the Federal Test Procedure road durability driving cycle. A fresh converter results when the converter has operated between 2000 and 5000 miles or equivalent hours. An aged converter results when the converter has been operated for the warranted life of the original equipment converter.

(c) Where one generic converter is intended to cover multiple vehicle or engine configurations, converter aging may be obtained per Paragraph (b) above, on a vehicle or engine which represents the greatest peak air flow of the group of vehicle configurations to be covered, and whose calibration and feed gas concentrations are representative of the vehicle or engine configurations being certified for.

2. Other Considerations.

(a) Replacement converter must fit within the width and length space envelope of the original equipment converter. Converter spacing from the underbody and for ground clearance must be the same or greater than the original equipment converter application.

(b) Pressure drop measured between inlet and outlet pipe interconnecting points on the replacement converter shall be within ±25% of similar measurements for the original equipment converter being replaced, when measured at each of three flow conditions 50 SCFM, 100 SCFM, and 150 SCFM with a suitable fluid medium such as air. Maximum allowable exhaust gas leakage from the replacement coverter shall be 0.4 cubic feet per minute measured at 4.0 pounds per square inch differential. All measurements must be normalized to equal density conditions.

(c) Converter skin temperature shall be measured during the converter efficiency test. The skin temperature for the replacement converter must equal or be less than that for the original equipment converter.

P. Air Cleaner Filter Element

1. Test Procedures and Criteria.

(a) Using test equipment and procedures specified in SAE-J726c, perform:

(i) Air Flow and Pressure Drop Test (2.3) at 200 SCFM, record test conditions and pressure drop.

(ii) Efficiency Test (2.4) to measure full life efficiency at 200 SCFM to a total pressure drop of 9 inches of water, record test conditions and test duration from first to last addition of standard dust, weigh test element and absolute filter at end of test using three randomly selected original equipment air filter elements.

(b) Perform tests as in (a) above, under conditions controlled to within ±10% of the corresponding original equipment test conditions, for three randomly selected replacement air filter elements.

(c) The replacement air filter element average recorded test results. The pressure drop in (i) and absolute filter weight in (ii) must be equal to or less than those average results for the original equipment test results. The replacement air filter averaged test results for element weight in (ii) must be equal to or larger than averaged result for the original equipment averaged test results.

2. Durability Procedure.

(a) After use in the intended vehicle or engine application for the recommended service interval, the replacement element shall evidence an increase in pressure drop (as measured in 1 (a)(i) above) equal to or less than that of the original equipment air filter element tested in the identical manner.

[45 FR 78464, Nov. 25, 1980, as amended at 54 FR 32593, Aug. 8, 1989]

Appendix II to Subpart V of Part 85 - Arbitration Rules

Part A - Pre-Hearing

Section 1: Initiation of Arbitration

Either party may commence an arbitration under these rules by filing at any regional office of the American Arbitration Association (the AAA) three copies of a written submission to arbitrate under these rules, signed by either party. It shall contain a statement of the matter in dispute, the amount of money involved, the remedy sought, and the hearing locale requested, together with the appropriate administrative fee as provided in the Administrative Fee Schedule of the AAA in effect at the time the arbitration is filed. The filing party shall notify the MOD Director in writing within 14 days of when it files for arbitration and provide the MOD Director with the date of receipt of the bill by the part manufacturer.

Unless the AAA in its discretion determines otherwise and no party disagrees, the Expedited Procedures (as described in Part E of these Rules) shall be applied in any case where no disclosed claim or counterclaim exceeds $32,500, exclusive of interest and arbitration costs. Parties may also agree to the Expedited Procedures in cases involving claims in excess of $32,500.

All other cases, including those involving claims not in excess of $32,500 where either party so desires, shall be administered in accordance with Parts A through D of these Rules.

Section 2: Qualification of Arbitrator

Any arbitrator appointed pursuant to these Rules shall be neutral, subject to disqualification for the reasons specified in Section 6. If the parties specifically so agree in writing, the arbitrator shall not be subject to disqualification for said reasons.

The term “arbitrator” in these rules refers to the arbitration panel, whether composed of one or more arbitrators.

Section 3: Direct Appointment by Mutual Agreement of Parties

The involved manufacturers should select a mutually-agreeable arbitrator through which they will resolve their dispute. This step should be completed within 90 days from the date of receipt of the warranty claim bill by the part manufacturer.

Section 4: Appointment From Panel

If the parties have not appointed an arbitrator and have not provided any other method of appointment, the arbitrator shall be appointed in the following manner: 90 days from the date of receipt of the warranty claim bill by the part manufacturer, the AAA shall submit simultaneously to each party to the dispute an identical list of names of persons chosen from the National Panel of Commercial Arbitrators, established and maintained by the AAA.

Each party to the dispute shall have ten days from the mailing date in which to cross off any names objected to, number the remaining names in order of preference, and return the list to the AAA. If a party does not return the list within the time specified, all persons named therein shall be deemed acceptable. From among the persons who have been approved on both lists, and in accordance with the designated order of mutual preference, the AAA shall invite the acceptance of an arbitrator to serve. If the parties fail to agree on any of the persons named, or if acceptable arbitrators are unable to act, or if for any other reason the appointment cannot be made from the submitted lists, the AAA shall have the power to make the appointment from among other members of the panel without the submission of additional lists.

Section 5: Number of Arbitrators; Notice to Arbitrator of Appointment

The dispute shall be heard and determined by one arbitrator, unless the AAA in its discretion, directs that a greater number of arbitrators be appointed.

Notice of the appointment of the arbitrator shall be mailed to the arbitrator by the AAA, together with a copy of these rules, and the signed acceptance of the arbitrator shall be filed with the AAA prior to the opening of the first hearing.

Section 6: Disclosure and Challenge Procedure

Any person appointed as an arbitrator shall disclose to the AAA any circumstance likely to affect impartiality, including any bias or any financial or personal interest in the result of the arbitration or any past or present relationship with the parties or their representatives. Upon receipt of such information from the arbitrator or another source, the AAA shall communicate the information to the parties and, if it deems it appropriate to do so, to the arbitrator and others. Upon objection of a party to the continued service of an arbitrator, the AAA shall determine whether the arbitrator should be disqualified and shall inform the parties of its decision, which shall be conclusive.

Section 7: Vacancies

If for any reason an arbitrator should be unable to perform the duties of the office, the AAA may, on proof satisfactory to it, declare the office vacant. Vacancies shall be filled in accordance with the applicable provisions of these rules.

In the event of a vacancy in a panel of arbitrators after the hearings have commenced, the remaining arbitrator or arbitrators may continue with the hearing and determination of the controversy, unless the parties agree otherwise.

Section 8: Interpretation and Application of Rules

The arbitrator shall interpret and apply these rules insofar as they relate to the arbitrator's powers and duties. When there is more than one arbitrator and a difference arises among them concerning the meaning or application of these rules, it shall be decided by a majority vote. If that is unobtainable, either an arbitrator or a party may refer the question to the AAA for final decision. All other rules shall be interpreted and applied by the AAA.

Section 9: Administrative Conference and Preliminary Hearing

At the request of any party or at the discretion of the AAA, an administrative conference with the AAA and the parties and/or their representatives will be scheduled in appropriate cases to expedite the arbitration proceedings.

In large or complex cases, at the request of any party or at the discretion of the arbitrator or the AAA, a preliminary hearing with the parties and/or their representatives and the arbitrator may be scheduled by the arbitrator to specify the issues to be resolved, stipulate to uncontested facts, and to consider any other matters that will expedite the arbitration proceedings. Consistent with the expedited nature of arbitration, the arbitrator may, at the preliminary hearing, establish (i) the extent of and the schedule for the production of relevant documents and other information, (ii) the identification of any witnesses to be called, and (iii) a schedule for further hearings to resolve the dispute.

Section 10: Fixing of Locale

The parties may mutually agree on the locale where the arbitration is to be held. If any party requests that the hearing be held in a specific locale and the other party files no objection thereto within ten days after notice of the request has been mailed to it by the AAA, the locale shall be the one requested. If a party objects to the locale requested by the other party, the AAA shall have the power to determine the locale and its decision shall be final and binding.

Part B - The Hearing

Section 1: Date, Time, and Place of Hearing

The arbitrator shall set the date, time, and place for each hearing. The AAA shall mail to each party notice thereof at least ten days in advance, unless the parties by mutual agreement waive such notice or modify the terms thereof.

Section 2: Representation

Any party may be represented by counsel or other authorized representative. A party intending to be so represented shall notify the other party and the AAA of the name and address of the representative at least three days prior to the date set for the hearing at which that person is first to appear. When such a representative initiates an arbitration or responds for a party, notice is deemed to have been given.

Section 3: Attendance at Hearings

The arbitrator shall maintain the privacy of the hearings unless the law provides to the contrary. Representatives of the MOD director, and any persons having a direct interest in the arbitration are entitled to attend hearings. The arbitrator shall otherwise have the power to require the exclusion of any witness, other than a party or other essential person, during the testimony of any other witness. It shall be discretionary with the arbitrator to determine the propriety of the attendance of any other person.

Section 4: Oaths

Before proceeding with the first hearing, each arbitrator may take an oath of office and, if required by law, shall do so. The arbitrator may require witnesses to testify under oath administered by any duly qualified person and, if it is required by law or requested by any party, shall do so.

Section 5: Majority Decision

All decisions of the arbitrators must be by a majority. The award must also be made by a majority.

Section 6: Order of Proceedings and Communication with Arbitrator

A hearing shall be opened by the filing of the oath of the arbitrator, where required; by the recording of the date, time, and place of the hearing, and the presence of the arbitrator, the parties and their representatives, if any; and by the receipt by the arbitrator of the statement of the claim and the answering statement, if any.

The arbitrator may, at the beginning of the hearing, ask for statements clarifying the issues involved. In some cases, part or all of the above will have been accomplished at the preliminary hearing conducted by the arbitrator pursuant to Part A Section 9 of these Rules.

The complaining party shall then present evidence to support its claim. The defending party shall then present evidence supporting its defense. Witnesses for each party shall submit to questions or other examination. The arbitrator has the discretion to vary this procedure but shall afford a full and equal opportunity to all parties for the presentation of any material and relevant evidence.

Exhibits, when offered by either party, may be received in evidence by the arbitrator.

The names and addresses of all witnesses and a description of the exhibits in the order received shall be made a part of the record.

There shall be no direct communication between the parties and an arbitrator other than at oral hearing, unless the parties and the arbitrator agree otherwise. Any other oral or written communication from the parties to the neutral arbitrator shall be directed to the AAA for transmittal to the arbitrator.

Section 7: Evidence

The parties may offer such evidence as is relevant and material to the dispute and shall produce such evidence as the arbitrator may deem necessary to an understanding and determination of the dispute. An arbitrator or other person authorized by law to subpoena witnesses or documents may do so upon the request of any party or independently.

The arbitrator shall be the judge of the relevance and materiality of the evidence offered, and conformity to legal rules of evidence shall not be necessary. All evidence shall be taken in the presence of all of the arbitrators and all of the parties, except where any of the parties is absent, in default, or has waived the right to be present.

Section 8: Evidence by Affidavit and Post-hearing Filing of Documents or Other Evidence

The arbitrator may receive and consider the evidence of witnesses by affidavit, but shall give it only such weight as the arbitrator deems it entitled to after consideration of any objection made to its admission.

If the parties agree or the arbitrator directs that documents or other evidence be submitted to the arbitrator after the hearing, the documents or other evidence shall be filed with the AAA for transmission to the arbitrator. All parties shall be afforded an opportunity to examine such documents or other evidence.

Section 9: Closing of Hearing

The arbitrator shall specifically inquire of all parties whether they have any further proofs to offer or witnesses to be heard. Upon receiving negative replies or if satisfied that the record is complete, the arbitrator shall declare the hearing closed and a minute thereof shall be recorded. If briefs are to be filed, the hearing shall be declared closed as of the final date set by the arbitrator for the receipt of briefs. If documents are to be filed as provided for in Part B Section 9 and the date set for their receipt is later than that set for the receipt of briefs, the later date shall be the date of closing the hearing. The time limit within which the arbitrator is required to make the award shall commence to run, in the absence of other agreements by the parties, upon the closing of the hearing.

Section 10: Reopening of Hearing

The hearing may be reopened on the arbitrator's initiative, or upon application of a party, at any time before the award is made. The arbitrator may reopen the hearing and shall have 30 days from the closing of the reopened hearing within which to make an award.

Section 11: Waiver of Oral Hearing

The parties may provide, by written agreement, for the waiver of oral hearings.

Section 12: Waiver of Rules

Any party who proceeds with the arbitration after knowledge that any provision or requirement of these rules has not been complied with and who fails to state an objection thereto in writing, shall be deemed to have waived the right to object.

Section 13: Extensions of Time

The parties may modify any period of time by mutual agreement. The AAA or the arbitrator may for good cause extend any period of time established by these rules, except the time for making the award. The AAA shall notify the parties of any extension.

Section 14: Serving of Notice

Each party shall be deemed to have consented that any papers, notices, or process necessary or proper for the initiation or continuation of an arbitration under these rules; for any court action in connection therewith; or for the entry of judgment on any award made under these rules may be served on a party by mail addressed to the party or its representative at the last known address or by personal service, inside or outside the state where the arbitration is to be held, provided that reasonable opportunity to be heard with regard thereto has been granted to the party.

The AAA and the parties may also use facsimile transmission, telex, telegram, or other written forms of electronic communication to give the notices required by these rules.

Part C - Award and Decision

Section 1: Time of Award

The award shall be made promptly by the arbitrator and, unless otherwise agreed by the parties or specified by law, no later than 30 days from the date of closing the hearing, or, if oral hearings have been waived, from the date of the AAA's transmittal of the final statements and proofs to the arbitrator.

Section 2: Form of Award

The award shall be in writing and shall be signed by the arbitrator, or if a panel is utilized, a majority of the arbitrators. It shall be accompanied by a written decision which sets forth the reasons for the award. Both the award and the decision shall be filed by the arbitrator with the MOD Director.

Section 3: Scope of Award

The arbitrator may grant to the vehicle manufacturer any repair expenses that he or she deems to be just and equitable.

Section 4: Award upon Settlement

If the parties settle their dispute during the course of the arbitration, the arbitrator may set forth the terms of the agreed settlement in an award. Such an award is referred to as a consent award. The consent award shall be filed by the arbitrator with the MOD Director.

Section 5: Delivery of Award to Parties

Parties shall accept as legal delivery of the award, the placing of the award, or a true copy thereof in the mail addressed to a party or its representative at the last known address, personal service of the award, or the filing of the award in any other manner that is permitted by law.

Section 6: Release of Documents for Judicial Proceedings

The AAA shall, upon the written request of a party, furnish to the party, at its expense, certified copies of any papers in the AAA's possession that may be required in judicial proceedings relating to the arbitration.

Part D - Fees and Expenses

Section 1: Administrative Fee

The AAA shall be compensated for the cost of providing administrative services according to the AAA Administrative Fee Schedule and the AAA Refund Schedule. The Schedules in effect at the time the demand for arbitration or submission agreement is received shall be applicable.

The administrative fee shall be advanced by the initiating party or parties, subject to final allocation at the end of the case.

When a claim or counterclaim is withdrawn or settled, the refund shall be made in accordance with the Refund Schedule. The AAA may, in the event of extreme hardship on the part of any party, defer or reduce the administrative fee.

Section 2: Expenses

The loser of the arbitration is liable for all arbitration expenses unless determined otherwise by the arbitrator.

Section 3: Arbitrator's Fee

An arrangement for the compensation of an arbitrator shall be made through discussions by the parties with the AAA and not directly between the parties and the arbitrator. The terms of compensation of arbitrators on a panel shall be identical.

Section 4: Deposits

The AAA may require the parties to deposit in advance of any hearings such sums of money as it deems necessary to defray the expense of the arbitration, including the arbitrator's fee, if any, and shall render an accounting to the parties and return any unexpended balance at the conclusion of the case.

Part E - Expedited Procedures

Section 1: Notice by Telephone

The parties shall accept all notices from the AAA by telephone. Such notices by the AAA shall subsequently be confirmed in writing to the parties. Should there be a failure to confirm in writing any notice hereunder, the proceeding shall nonetheless be valid if notice has, in fact, been given by telephone.

Section 2: Appointment and Qualifications of Arbitrator

The AAA shall submit simultaneously to each party an identical list of five proposed arbitrators drawn from the National Panel of Commercial Arbitrators, from which one arbitrator shall be appointed.

Each party may strike two names from the list on a preemptory basis. The list is returnable to the AAA within seven days from the date of the AAA's mailing of the list to the parties.

If for any reason the appointment of an arbitrator cannot be made from the list, the AAA may make the appointment from among other members of the panel without the submission of additional lists.

The parties will be given notice by the AAA by telephone of the appointment of the arbitrator, who shall be subject to disqualification for the reasons specified in Part A, Section 6. The parties shall notify the AAA, by telephone, within seven days of any objection to the arbitrator appointed. Any objection by a party to the arbitrator shall be confirmed in writing to the AAA with a copy to the other party or parties.

Section 3: Date, Time, and Place of Hearing

The arbitrator shall set the date, time, and place of the hearing. The AAA will notify the parties by telephone, at least seven days in advance of the hearing date. Formal Notice of Hearing will be sent by the AAA to the parties and the MOD Director.

Section 4: The Hearing

Generally, the hearing shall be completed within one day, unless the dispute is resolved by the submission of documents. The arbitrator, for good cause shown, may schedule an additional hearing to be held within seven days.

Section 5: Time of Award

Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, the award shall be rendered not later than 14 days from the date of the closing of the hearing.

Section 6: Applicability of Rules

Unless explicitly contradicted by the provisions of this part, provisions of other parts of the Rules apply to proceedings conducted under this part.

[54 FR 32593, Aug. 8, 1989, as amended at 70 FR 40432, July 13, 2005]