What you need to know about Smog Check in California?

 

Q – Is my vehicle subject to Smog Check?

Gas-powered vehicles 1976 and newer require a Smog Check, with the following exceptions:

  • Six model years and newer do not need a biennial (every other year) inspection.
  • (2) Four model years and newer do not need a change-of-ownership inspection.
  • Diesel-powered vehicles 1998 and newer with a gross vehicle weight rating up to 14,000 pounds also require a Smog Check. There are no exemptions.
  • Motorcycles and electric-powered vehicles are currently exempt from the Smog Check Program

 

Q – How often does my vehicle have to be tested?

If your vehicle is subject to Smog Check, it must be tested every other year. An inspection is also required if you sell a vehicle and when registering a vehicle for the first time in California.

 

Q – Do I need to take anything with me to my Smog Check?

Remember to take your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) registration renewal form with you when getting a Smog Check. This will help ensure that the correct vehicle information and test results are electronically sent to DMV.

 

Q – What is a STAR station?

Some vehicles require a Smog Check at a STAR station. STAR stations must meet specified performance standards established by BAR. Some STAR stations are licensed to perform only tests, while others are licensed to perform both tests and repairs. The station is required to post a sign on the services it performs.

 

Q – How will I know if my vehicle needs a test at a STAR station?

Your DMV registration renewal form will indicate whether your vehicle must be inspected at a STAR station.

 

Q – How can I find a STAR station in my area?

To find a STAR station near you, visit SmogCheckDeals.com

 

Q – How much does a Smog Check cost?

The cost of a Smog Check inspection varies. Check around on station prices and to see if any coupons are available.

 

Q – How can I help my vehicle pass Smog Check?

Performing regular and proper vehicle maintenance according to your owner’s manual and not tampering with the emissions control equipment are keys to passing Smog Check. If the Check Engine light comes on, take your vehicle to a licensed repair station as soon as you can to have the problem diagnosed. Consult your owner’s manual for repairs that may be covered under your emissions warranty.

 

Q – What if my vehicle fails Smog Check?

In order to complete your registration, you will need to obtain repairs necessary for the vehicle to pass a Smog Check retest. Before beginning repairs, you may want to find out if you are eligible for the Consumer Assistance Program.

 

Q – Are programs available to help if my vehicle fails?

Yes. The Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) offers both repair assistance and vehicle retirement to eligible consumers whose vehicles fail Smog Check.

 

Q – What is Repair Assistance?

Up to $500 in emission-related repairs is available to consumers whose vehicles fail a biennial (every other year) Smog Check if they meet income eligibility requirements.
If you feel your vehicle is not worth repairing, you can retire it from operation for up to $1,500 at a state approved dismantler.

 

Q – What is Smog Check?

The Smog Check Program is an important part of the State’s efforts to improve the air we breathe. Smog Check inspections
are designed  to identify vehicles with excess emissions so they can be properly repaired.
The Smog Check Program 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.

 

Q – Who oversees Smog Check?

The California Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Automotive Repair administers the Smog Check Program.
Over 10 million vehicles are inspected each year by more than 7,000 independently-owned Smog Check stations
located throughout the state. The Bureau of Automotive Repair is here to help.