What is a Smog Test?

A smog check procedure ensures that your vehicle is not contributing to the smog in the air. In other words, it’s necessary for the greater good of the environment. Smog checking is a relatively quick process and only takes 20 to about 30 minutes. It’ll make sure your car isn’t releasing extra pollutant emissions.

Where Can I Get a Smog Test?

Look no further, if the DMV is requiring a smog inspection of your vehicle, we can help you with that here. As a certified STAR Test Only Station, be assured that we can perform a smog inspection on all vehicles regardless of year, make, or model (excluding motor-homes and RV's). Even if you have unfortunately failed at another station, you can still bring your vehicle here for the final inspection.

What If My Vehicle Fails a Smog Test?

So what do you do next? There are a variety of options to choose from when it comes to a vehicle that has failed a smog test. The first is to think things through and decide whether your automobile is worth repairing. If your car is on its last legs, and has been causing you to spend big bucks on tiny repairs, then it might be time to say goodbye. Retiring a vehicle is never easy to do, but if the expenses outweigh the results then you may have an option through the state of California to retire your vehicle. The program is called the Consumer Assistance Program and you may be eligible to receive up to $1500 for a vehicle. You can always visit smogcheck.ca.gov for requirements and to apply.

However if retiring your car is not an option, then there are other options you may want to pursue. At the end of the inspection you will be given a report with the smog check results. You can take this report to any certified repair shop of your choosing and work with that shop to get your vehicle up to par to pass the smog inspection on its next attempt. Keep in mind though that financial assistance may be available to repair your vehicle through the Consumer Assistance Program as well. The state of California can help consumers repair their failing vehicles with up to $500 in smog related repairs. Visit smogcheck.ca.gov for more information and to apply.

If the Consumer Assistance Program is something that appeals to you, and you need a little guidance to apply or if you have any questions about it, our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist. All you need to do is ask.

Remember, we're here to help. We understand that a vehicle is a necessity and it's never easy when a vehicle fails a smog check inspection. So if this does happen, we're here to guide you in the right direction no matter what you decide.