California Smog Check Program Laws & Regulations

 California's Smog Check Program Laws & Regulations

 

How to Pass the Smog Check. It's a Easy 3-Part Test!

How to PASS the Smog Check. It's a Easy 3-Part Test!

400+ Smog Check Coupons. Station Photos & Details

400+ SMOG CHECK COUPONS. Station Photos & Details

Under Your Hood - The Visual Smog Inspection

Under Your Hood   The NEW Visual Smog Inspection

Automotive Coupons & Classifieds

Automotive
Coupons &
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Under Your Hood - The Visual Smog Inspection

DMV - Vehicle Registration & Requirements

Does My Car Need a Smog Check?

Does My Car Need a Smog Check? What about Hybrids?

VIR Reports - FREE Online Smog Check Diagnosis Tool

 VIR Reports - FREE Online Smog Check Diagnosis Tool 

Get $500.00 Smog Repair Assistance Program (CAP)

 Get $500.00! Smog Repair Assistance Program - CAP

FAQ's - California Emissions Questions & Answers

 FAQ's - California Emissions Questions & Answers

OBDII Check Engine Light Trouble Codes

 Generic OBDII Trouble Codes

Email a Tech - Do you have a Smog Check Question? Get a Response in 24 hours.

  EMAIL A TECH - Do you have a Smog Check Question?

Smog Test Only - What is a Test Only Smog Station?

SMOG TEST ONLY What is a Test Only Smog Station?

Remote Smog Check Sensing

NEW! Remote Smog Test Sensing Device

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THE EMISSIONS TEST

First let's learn about Smog. Smog is formed in our atmosphere when Nitrogen Dioxide and Hydrocarbons react together in sunlight. The internal combustion engine produces, among other gases, Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2). The later (CO2) is not a problem, however when combined with Nitrogen, it becomes a component of "smog".

In an effort to reduce the formation of smog, we need to insure our engines' are emitting the least amount of Hydrocarbons, Carbon Monoxides, and Nitrous Oxides into the atmosphere.

We must point out that the emissions test portion of the smog check process is where vehicles fail most. A properly maintained engine should not have any trouble passing the emissions test. However, vehicles which are not, very often produce harmful emissions past the state's allowed limits, and subsequently fail this test. Simple timely engine maintenance will eliminate emissions failure causing problems.

NOTE: Passing the emissions test insures only completion of one out of the three sections of the smog inspection process. Remember there is the Visual Test and Functional Test sections of the smog inspection also. These two test will be administered after the Emissions Test.

THE EMISSIONS TEST: The first test which the emissions test center will administer as part of the entire smog inspection process is the emissions test. In order to pass the emissions test portion of the smog inspection your car's engine must be burning fuel efficiently, insuring Hydrocarbons (HC) in it's combustion chambers are burning away thoroughly. Hydrocarbon, put simply, is gasoline. Consequently, this is the entire reason for the California emissions test program; to lower the amount of harmful pollutants emitted by a car's engine.

The emissions test will measure your vehicle's HC, CO and NOx production, and insure they are within the limits set by the State of California. Your vehicle's CO2 and O2 emissions are measured as well, however these results do not effect passing or failing the emission test.

Optimum fuel burning is achieved when the engine can maintain a 14.7:1 air/fuel ratio during the combustion process with a constant variation +/- 5% to assist the catalytic converter operation.

Miles:
Which Type Should I Choose?
 


 

Performing routine tune ups, which should include changing the spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, and engine oil, either just before an emissions test, or as required by the vehicle's manufacturers will greatly improve your chances of passing the emissions test.

DYNAMOMETER USED: Counties in California with greater smog pollution require vehicle owners complete the Enhanced version of California's emissions test. The Enhanced smog test requires your vehicle to be driven on a dynamometer while the smog machine collects emission samples from the tailpipe. The Enhanced smog test has been proven to retrieve a more accurate sample of a vehicle's emissions output, then it's predecessor, the Basic smog test. The Basic smog test requires vehicles to be tested, only at idle and 2500 rpms. No dynamometer driving required.

If your county is in the Bureau of Automotive Repairs Enhanced list, no need to worry. There is nothing to do on your part. The smog stations in your area will be equipped to handle your vehicle's emissions test. Only thing you should consider is insuring proper tire inflation and avoid smog checking on rainy days.

FAILED THE EMISSIONS TEST

Help! My car failed the emissions test. What can I do? This is the most asked question we receive. To answer it, we'll have to start at the smog station. The smog technician who inspected, or inspects your car, will give you a Vehicle Inspection... Continue

PASSING THE EMISSIONS TEST

How can my car pass the emissions test? This is probably the second most asked question we receive. Well the answer is... we'll give you great advice to improve your chances of passing the emissions test however none of these tips will help, if... Continue

 

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