1998 Toyota Carolla failed NJ inspection: OBD fails to communicate with emission testing machine?

Question

Using an OBD scanner I could however connect to the OBD computer and found no diagnostic codes present. Can any one enlighten me as to why OBD computer communicates with my scanner and not with NJ inspection station's Machine. I do not think it is a loose connection problem, because the inspector really tried hard to establish the communication by wiggling the connector and shaking it many times.

Answer 1

The problem was "user" error.  Poorly trained testing personell not knowing how to correclty use the equipment.

I would go back to the testing station, ask for the supervisor and have it retested.

Answer 2

If it "communicates" with your scanner...I doubt the problem is with your car.Go to another place for state inspection.