Visual and functional inspection of emissions-related components to verify compliance with federal and state emissions standards for the 2011-2014 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle has been driven at least 15 minutes to reach operating temperature
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Turn engine off and allow to cool enough for safe inspection of hot components
4. Verify inspection requirements for your state (visual-only or OBD-II required)

Procedure

1. 1

   Connect OBD-II Scanner
   Locate the OBD-II diagnostic port under the driver side dash near the steering column. Plug in the scan tool and turn ignition to ON position without starting engine. Navigate to readiness monitor screen to verify emission monitor status.
2. 2

   Check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes
   Scan for active and pending diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Record any codes present. Verify Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL/Check Engine Light) is not illuminated on instrument cluster. Note that even one active emissions-related code will result in inspection failure.
3. 3

   Verify Readiness Monitor Status
   Check that all OBD-II readiness monitors show 'Ready' or 'Complete' status. For 2011-2014 F-150, the following monitors must be ready: Catalyst, Heated Catalyst, Evaporative System, Secondary Air System (if equipped), Oxygen Sensor, and Oxygen Sensor Heater. Note that up to one monitor may be incomplete depending on state requirements.
4. 4

   Inspect Gas Cap and EVAP System
   Remove fuel filler cap and inspect gasket for cracks, tears, or deterioration. Check that cap clicks at least 3 times when tightened. Visually inspect visible EVAP lines from fuel tank to engine bay for cracks, disconnections, or damage. Verify purge valve connector is securely attached on driver side of intake manifold.
5. 5

   Inspect Catalytic Converters
   Using inspection light, examine all four catalytic converters (two in each Y-pipe assembly) from underneath vehicle. Check for physical damage, severe rust perforation, aftermarket replacement that may not be CARB-compliant, or evidence of removal/tampering. Verify heat shields are present and secure.
6. 6

   Check Oxygen Sensors
   Visually inspect all four oxygen sensor locations (two upstream before cats, two downstream after cats). Verify sensors are present and wiring harnesses are connected. Check for damaged wiring, melted insulation, or disconnected plugs. Upstream sensors located in exhaust manifolds, downstream sensors in Y-pipes after catalytic converters.
7. 7

   Inspect PCV System
   Check PCV valve located in passenger side valve cover. Verify vacuum hose connections are secure and hoses are not cracked or collapsed. Shake PCV valve to ensure internal check valve rattles freely, indicating it is not stuck closed.
8. 8

   Verify Air Intake System Integrity
   Inspect air filter housing and intake tube from air box to throttle body. Check that all connections are secure and air filter housing cover is properly latched. Look for cracks in intake tubing or loose clamps that could allow unmetered air into engine. Verify Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor connector is attached.
9. 9

   Check Exhaust System for Leaks
   Visually inspect entire exhaust system from manifolds to tailpipe for leaks, holes, or missing components. Pay special attention to manifold gasket areas, Y-pipe connections, and flex joints. Any exhaust leak before the downstream oxygen sensors will cause inspection failure.
10. 10

    Document Inspection Results
    Record VIN, odometer reading, OBD-II monitor status, any DTCs found, and results of visual inspection. If vehicle passes, complete required documentation. If vehicle fails, provide specific failure points and recommended repairs to customer.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all inspected components are returned to original condition
2. Verify fuel cap is securely tightened if removed during inspection
3. Disconnect OBD-II scan tool and verify ignition is turned off

Verification

• Confirm no diagnostic trouble codes are present or pending
• Verify all required OBD-II readiness monitors show 'Ready' status
• Ensure all emissions components are present, connected, and free from visible damage
• Check that Malfunction Indicator Lamp is not illuminated when ignition is in RUN position

More procedures for this vehicle