1998 Honda Prelude. Check engine light is on. What options do I have if I fail smog?

I have driven my Prelude for 230K of its 254K miles. It is regularly maintained by a highly rated toyota/honda only shop. It runs great. It has always used perhaps a quart of 5W30 every 1,500 miles. The rear of the car gets blackened by what look like small flecks of oil. I don't see visible smoke. Two years ago HC at 15 mph was exactly the max of 55 PPM. Yes, the check engine light has been on most of the time for probably the last 120K miles. Before testing I pull the fuse on that circuit to reset it. The test is coming due again. Clearly I am concerned. I plan on doing whatever I can to give me the best possible chance to pass. I have yet to get a clear answer on what my options are if it fails. Your thougts please.

Thanks, Troy

Answer:

Well you always have the option of applying for the CAP program. This will give you $500.00 in free money to get your 1998 Honda Prelude repaired. If the DMV directed your Honda Prelude to a Smog Test Only Center for a smog inspection, you automatically qualify for the CAP program. If your Honda Prelude was not directed to a test only center and just a regular smog station, you can still apply for CAP but you have to pay a $100.00 Co-Pay. Your other option is to retire your 1998 Honda Prelude to the State of California for $1000.00. I don't think you want to take that option, but it is available if your Honda Prelude fails it's biennial smog check inspection.

posted by SmogTips Support