Ford Dealer in Nebraska Fined $40k for Removing Emissions Equipment from Diesel Trucks
Violation of Clean Air Act
A Ford dealer in Nebraska, Moody Motor Co from Niobrara, has been hit with a $40k fine for deleting emissions equipment from diesel trucks. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) discovered that Moody Motor Co purchased delete kits from Diesel Performance of Texas and fitted them to up to 20 trucks between 2019 and 2022. These delete kits removed legally-required emissions technology from the trucks, violating the Clean Air Act.
Crackdown on Diesel Delete Equipment
The EPA has been cracking down on tuning companies selling diesel delete equipment over the last few years. However, this recent case involving a Ford dealer highlights the extent of the issue. Moody Motor Co was caught up in the scandal and faced the consequences. The $40k fine serves as a warning to other dealerships and tuning firms involved in similar activities.
Investigation and Fine
During an investigation into the activities of Diesel Performance of Texas, Moody Motor Co’s transactions came to light. The dealership had purchased delete kits on 14 separate occasions between 2019 and 2022. As a result, a judge handed out a $39,741 fine and $125 special assessment fee to the dealership. Moody’s mechanics admitted to modifying 10-20 trucks using the delete kits, with one of the deleted trucks belonging to a relative of a Moody employee.
Justifications and Consequences
While some owners may choose to delete emissions equipment to improve performance and economy or to eliminate sensor warnings, the judge did not see these reasons as valid justifications for violating the Clean Air Act. Moody Motor Co was given one year’s probation in addition to the $40k fine.
Comparison to Previous Fines
Although $40k is a significant amount for a small dealership, it pales in comparison to the $10 million fine applied to Diesel Ops LLC and Orion Diesel LLC in 2022. These two companies, owned by Nicholas Piccolo, were engaged in selling delete kits. The EPA has been actively targeting emissions defeat devices, but their priority list has shifted in recent years.
Conclusion
The case of Moody Motor Co serves as a reminder that the EPA is actively pursuing violations of the Clean Air Act related to diesel delete equipment. Dealerships and tuning firms should be aware of the consequences and prioritize compliance with emissions regulations.
