Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Smog?
Gasoline-powered vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and alternative-fuel vehicles that are model-year 1976 and newer require a Smog Check.
Cars model years 8 and older DO NOT require a smog check and model year cars 4 years and older DO NOT require a change of ownership smog check.
When to receive a smog check is based on a couple different things:
- Bi-annual smog check. Every two years once the vehicle is 8 years old.
- Change of Ownership. Any car being sold that is 4 years or older must have a smog check preformed by the seller before selling the vehicle.
What is the Smog Check Program?
The smog program is in place to check your cars emissions system and ensure your car is running safely and not emitting any extra gases than it should be that may be harmful to the environment.
Some aspects of a smog check include:
-Visual inspection of emissions-control equipment and systems.
-Functional inspection of the vehicle’s check engine light, ignition timing, exhaust gas recirculation system, fuel evaporative system, and gas cap.
-Functional inspection of the vehicle’s on-board diagnostic (OBD) system.
-Tailpipe emissions inspection.
What do I need to bring with me to get a smog check?
If your DMV vehicle registration renewal notice indicates a Smog Check is required, remember to take the notice with you. This will help ensure that the correct vehicle information and Smog Check certificate are electronically sent to DMV.
What is a smog test-only station?
a smog test-only station is a licensed shop that can perform a smog test on your vehicle. No repair is allowed to be performed by a test only shop. We at Smog Inspection Station are a test-only shop and will never request any repair fees from you nor preform any repairs to your vehicle as we are not licensed to do so.
Are you licensed and insured?
Here at Smog Inspection Station we are ARD licensed to preform test-only smog inspections, and our smog technician is a BAR certified licensed smog technician. Our shop is also insured to protect ourselves and our valued customers.