I am in Massachusetts, where the emission laws are damn tough (okay...not as
tough as CA....but tough enough!!).

The car has 74K miles and it passed everything except the HC test (Higher
hydrocarbon emissions - approx 50% higher than normal).

The mechanic at the gas station who did the yearly inspection test told me
that it needed a new air filter, new plugs and a PCV valve. I bought these
parts and changed them over (even though the air filter & plugs were fairly
new !!), and changed the PCV valve, tonight even though it was tough to change over (needed a long socket driver and a 9/16" deep socket).

I read in a Chilton Honda Civic service manual that says a mal-functioning
PCV valve will make higher HC emissions.

Right now I have "R" sticker on the inspection sticker area. The mechanic
told me to change these things out (air filter, PCV valve & plugs) and come
back and it should pass. Anyone think of anything else?? The inspection
fee is $ 29 bucks in Mass, but on a R sticker is free for a first
re-inspection. So, I want to be sure there is nothing more than this !!

The following is the summary of Emissions:

HC GPM Reading 1.80 Limit 1.20 Result : FAIL

CO GPM Reading 14.58 Limit 20.00 Result : PASS

NOx GPM Reading 0.87 Limit 2.50 Result : PASS


Thanks in advance for your response.

Vinnie
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try to change your oil and filter. U didn't fail by much. That will lower HC's
If you got the HC and CO readings at idle, 1500, and 2500 i could give you a better diagnosis.