Particulate filter removal to be checked at Portugal’s mandatory inspections

The intention to check for the removal of particulate filters, particularly in vehicles fitted with diesel engines, has existed for some time, although implementation has been delayed. That is now set to change, with regulations for this procedure during Mandatory Periodic Inspections (IPO) moving forward.

Particle counters at vehicle inspection centres

When presenting the automotive sector’s annual results, ACAP – the Portuguese Automobile Association – said the Government is already regulating the introduction of this equipment. “We received a communication stating that the particle counter is at the implementation stage in vehicle technical inspection centres,” the association said.

The measure involves fitting devices that can accurately measure the number of particles per cubic centimetre, a technology already used in several European countries. The equipment can identify emissions exceeding the statutory threshold of 250,000 particles per cubic centimetre, which applies to vehicles type-approved to Euro 5b standard or later.

Particulate filter removal

ACAP has called for ultrafine-particle measurement to become compulsory at Mandatory Periodic Inspection (IPO) centres through the installation of dedicated equipment.

The proposal followed the identification of what is regarded as a worrying trend: the removal or tampering of particulate filters in diesel vehicles. This practice has a direct effect on increasing pollutant emissions and on public health.

“We believe that inspection centres, which are in fact the network that assesses the condition of vehicles, should also be equipped with particle-number counters,” said Helder Pedro, the association’s secretary-general.

What happens at present?

At present, inspection centres rely solely on opacimeters, devices that measure exhaust-gas opacity. This approach cannot quantify ultrafine particles or effectively establish whether a diesel particulate filter (DPF) is missing or no longer working.

In practical terms, this technical shortcoming may allow vehicles whose actual emissions are far above the legally established limits to remain on the road.

Should the new requirement take effect – with no official date yet announced – vehicles with tampered, non-functioning or absent emissions-control systems will automatically fail their IPO inspection.

ACAP’s proposal forms part of a broader strategy covering emissions control and the renewal of Portugal’s national vehicle fleet. As the average age of vehicles continues to rise and used-vehicle imports remain significant, strengthening the technical criteria applied during inspections becomes increasingly important.

“When we talk about decarbonisation, we must address it in a comprehensive way. All these aspects are meaningful and important for the motor trade,” ACAP’s secretary-general concluded.