FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHEN DOES MY VEHICLE REQUIRE A SMOG CHECK ?
It depends on your situation:
- Registration Renewals - Your vehicle needs a Smog Check if it is more than 8 model years old & newer than 1976 (in 2019, model years 1976 to 2011 must be smogged). Motorcycles and two-cylinder engine vehicles don’t get smogged.
- Buying/Selling a vehicle - A Smog Check is needed if it is more than 4 model years old. (In 2018, model year 2014 must be smogged)
- Out of state vehicles being registered in California require a Smog Check regardless of model year.
WHAT IS AN “EVAP” TEST ?
The Low-Pressure Evaporation test checks for leaks between your engine and the gas tank.
It is required by the State of California for vehicles 1995 and prior (some models are exempt).
HOW ABOUT DIESEL OR HYBRID VEHICLES ?
Diesel 1998 and newer will need a smog check. Procedures are different, but we do perform diesel smog checks. Hybrids do too
MY CAR IS PERFECT. WHY DO I NEED A FREE RETEST ?
While your engine emissions may seem fine, a California smog inspection covers also the computer on board of your vehicle, hoses, and wiring under the hood. If any of these components fail, you will be required to repair them and go through another full smog inspection (State law prohibits partial retests).
We give you the peace of mind that you can always return to us without being double-charged.
WHAT ARE THE ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF THE SMOG CHECK PROGRAM ?
IT WORKS ! It has greatly reduced air pollution created by millions of cars in California. According to the California Air Resources Board, the program removes about 400 tons of smog-forming pollutants from California’s air every day.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY VEHICLE FAILS A SMOG CHECK ?
You won’t be able to complete or renew your registration. You will need to obtain the repairs necessary for it to pass.
With us, your retest within a month is FREE of charge.
HOW OFTEN DOES MY VEHICLE HAVE TO BE TESTED ?
n most cases, every other year. Sometimes every year.
It is also required to sell your vehicle over 4 model years old.
WHAT IS A TEST-ONLY STATION?
A licensed Smog Check station that is only allowed to test cars.
State law prohibits them from making repairs,
so you are sure our test is unbiased.
HOW CAN I HELP MY VEHICLE PASS A SMOG CHECK ?
Perform proper & regular vehicle maintenance according to your owner’s manual,
and do not tamper with the emissions control equipment.
WHY AM I REQUIRED TO SMOG AT A STAR CERTIFIED STATION ?
Your vehicle belongs to a category prone to be gross polluter. It doesn't mean your vehicle won't pass. But the Bureau of Automotive Repair requires special attention for these vehicles, and a smog station that has proven its excellence.
We are Star Certified, you can trust us.