Unfortunately, installing an oil catch can will cause your vehicle to fail the smog inspection. The smog technician will have to identify your vehicle as having a modified PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) system. Although an oil catch is helpful to your engine's overall long term performance, the fact that the PCV system must be altered in order to install the oil catch can, will cause a smog check failure. The oil catch can is placed before the PCV valve and used to prevent crankcase oil from entering the intake manifold. This is helpful as it lessens carbon buildup on the intake valves. But again, unfortunately installing one reconfigures the manufacturer's original emission system design, and will not allow a vehicle to pass the California smog inspection.
posted by SmogTips Support
