This is tricky... Ignition timing is everything. The simple fix of setting
the timing correctly may get your Toyota to pass the smog check; but we
won't know until it's done. The way to process works is; you fail the smog
inspection, you take your Toyota to a smog repair station, they first
conduct a diagnosis (usually 2 hours of labor), then they recommend the
repairs. The repairs may or may not be extensive. Some require an hour and
some many hours.
In this case I'll help you out and do the first step of the diagnosis for
online and for free; you'll need to get the ignition timing set correctly
and have the check engine light turned off with a reset. Disconnecting the
battery for 20 seconds to turn of your Toyota's check engine light might do
the trick. If you are not mechanically inclined do not attempt any of this,
especially the timing adjustment. Take it to a local smog check repair
center and tell them what you need. I also recommend having your Toyota
looked at only by a smog check repair station, and not the average mechanic
shop. If the timing correction doesn't get your car to pass you'll need to
come back to the smog mechanic for diagnosis. It might as well be a mechanic
who is already familiar with your Toyota Camry.
So... get a tune-up (average $150.00 - this should include
ignition timing adjustment) and take a smog retest. If this doesn't get your
Toyota to pass the smog test then you'll need some hands on diagnosis. The
average labor and/or diagnostics rate is $65.00 dollars per hour. Best of
luck.
