Your Toyota or Lexus may be eligible to participate in our emissions and fuel economy test program. If your vehicle gets selected, we'll pick it up, give you a loaner vehicle, and return it to you washed and with a full tank of gas. We'll even pay you for your time. Learn more about our In-Use Verification Program (IUVP) below or contact us at iuvp@toyota.com.
10,000 miles
1 Year of Service
50,000 miles
4 years of Service
A small sample of vehicles are randomly selected and tested annually based on sales volume. The vehicles are grouped and tested by model, mileage, and age. Vehicles with at least 10,000 miles and 1 year of service are tested in the Low Mileage group. Vehicles with at least 50,000 miles and 3 years of service are tested in the High Mileage group. Using randomized customer lists generated by Toyota Motor North America Sales (TMNA Sales), an invitation package is sent out to Toyota and Lexus owners. This package includes a letter explaining the program, a questionnaire to help determine eligibility, and a return envelope with postage.
In the early 90's we began to voluntarily monitor and test emissions of our vehicles. We also began to cooperate with the EPA's in-use surveillance program to ensure emissions compliance. At the end of 1999, the EPA adopted the Compliance Assurance Program (CAP2000). This introduced the In-Use Verification Program (IUVP) as a requirement for all manufacturers.
The IUVP is a vehicle testing program that monitors emissions and fuel economy for low and high mileage owner vehicles. It allows the government and industry to identify potential concerns that may require further investigation. At Toyota and Lexus, the IUVP is managed by the Powertrain Certification & Compliance team at Toyota Motor North America Research and Development (TMNA R&D) in Ann Arbor, MI.
All selected vehicles are placed on a chassis dynamometer, also known as a dyno. The dyno simulates various driving styles, and allows the vehicle to be driven while remaining stationary, like a person running on a treadmill.
During each drive cycle, analyzers are connected to the tailpipe to measure exhaust gases and fuel economy.
City driving is simulated by a cycle called the Federal Test Procedure (FTP). The cycle has an average speed of 21.2 mph, lasts approximately 30 minutes, and is conducted in three phases.
Highway driving is simulated by the Highway Fuel Economy Test (HFET or HWY). This test has an average speed of 48.3 mph and lasts just under 26 minutes.
The US06 cycle was created to test vehicles under high speeds and acceleration conditions that more closely resemble modern driving habits. The test lasts 20 minutes with an average speed of 48.4 mph and a brief high speed of 80.2 mph.
An onsite visit and vehicle inspection takes place for eligible vehicles that are selected for testing. If a vehicle is accepted, it is insured by Toyota or the procurement company until it is returned to the owner. All vehicles are stored inside for the duration of the program when not being tested. On average, vehicles are returned within 1-2 weeks with an additional 100-150 miles on the odometer.
A monetary incentive is provided based on make, model and sales volume.
The vehicle is cleaned, washed and returned with a full tank of gas.
A comparable loaner vehicle is provided for the duration of the program.
Do I have to participate in the program?
No, participation in the program is completely voluntary.
Why should I participate?
Along with the incentives (free tank of gas, car wash, monetary incentive ($$$), potential replacement parts and a loaner vehicle with a full tank of gas), you will also be helping Toyota, Lexus, and the EPA improve air quality by monitoring emissions.
When will I receive my incentive check?
The incentive check is issued to you when the vehicle is returned.
How long will the testing take?
Testing usually lasts between 1-2 weeks depending on the required number of tests. Vehicles are generally returned within one business week (5 days).
What happens to the information collected during testing?
The results of this program are submitted to the EPA and used to determine the emissions performance of in-use vehicles. If a major issue is found for a specific vehicle or group, further investigation may be required.
If I need repairs will Toyota/Lexus fix them?
Toyota or Lexus will fix any problems affecting emissions output of the vehicle found during testing at no cost to the owner. Toyota will keep any replaced parts for further investigation. Missed maintenance, such as oil changes, will not be performed.
Where will the testing take place?
Testing will be conducted at Toyota Motor North America R&D labs located in either Ann Arbor, Michigan or Gardena, California. For high altitude testing, Toyota uses the facilities of TRP Laboratories in Aurora, CO.
How will my vehicle be protected?
While your vehicle is being used for testing, it is insured by Toyota or the third-party contract company. Vehicles are stored indoors or in a locked and secure parking area while not being driven.
How many miles will be put on my car?
Mileage will vary depending upon the number and type of tests that are required and distance from the testing facility. On average, approximately 100-150 miles may be added to your vehicle.
What type of replacement vehicle will be provided while my vehicle is being tested?
Program participants will be provided with a late year model vehicle of the same make (Toyota or Lexus). If a specific vehicle type (i.e., SUV or truck) is necessary, special arrangements can be made.
Will this affect my warranty?
No, participating in the program does not affect the warranty of the vehicle.
Why not use dealer; rental, or company vehicles instead?
The EPA requires vehicles in the program be procured from individual owners. Vehicles from other sources may not represent actual customer use and are excluded from participation.
What if my vehicle does not meet the mileage requirements?
The EPA requires us to test vehicles with at least 10,000 miles for IUVP Low Mileage, and at least 50,000 miles for IUVP High Mileage test groups. If your vehicle does not meet these requirements, you can still fill out and return your response card. The procurement company will ask for updates on your mileage if there is still a need to test your vehicle.
Why was I contacted by someone other than Toyota?
Third-party contract companies are used to procure owner vehicles on behalf of Toyota and Lexus. If you still have concerns about the procurement company that has contacted you, please contact us at
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