How difficult is it to get an RX7 to pass emissions testing? Mainly an FC. What are the most common obstacles that prevent an FC from passing?

 

If the car is in good shape and running properly, it will pass emissions.

Probably the most common obstacle in getting the car to pass is that it is 20+ years old, in poor tune, and with worn out EFI components.

 

^^bingo. a worn engine can have a hard time passing emissions due to heaveier than normal oil consumption and with an improper tune, the rotary can tend to run richer than normal. you will need a stock exhaust with all converters to ensure passing emissions.

 

I wouldn't worry about it if the car is in normal running condition. It would be a good idea to have the owner emission test it before you buy.

 

The air injection system plays a humongous role it cleaning up the emissions.

 

I see. What does it usually fail for? High Monoxide readings? Or visible smoke from oil consumption? I know that rotary engines burn oil by design.

 

High HC & CO, which are associated with an overly rich mixture.

 

High Hc's! Mine got failed once for not passing the visual inspection for not having the air injection tube that goes to the cat. Crazy thing is, it passed the emissions part with flying colors! It was a good fail. lol