What is a non emission related failure?

Non-emission related failures are a term most often used when vehicles are inspected by motor vehicle agencies and problems unrelated to the exhaust, fuel evaporative, and emissions (smog control) systems are found. Major non-smog related automotive systems are braking, engine & transmission (powertrain), cooling, suspension/chasis/steering, and ignition/electrical. A non emission related failure can come from any of those sources.