I have a 2000 Mitusbishi Diamante. Is there a way to bypass engine light in order to smog?

This vehicle is undergoing a transfer between relatives. We just found out that the car wasn't previously smogged and now we're responsible. The previous owner lives out of state. We took it to a smog station and it didn't pass. I think it didn't pass not only because the engine light was on but because it (a switch) was previously disconnected and reset. The car went right in after that. I believe the results may not be accurate but even more so because of the engine light. Is there a way to bypass that or get a more accurate reading?

We have exhausted our 60-day temporary operating permit. We need to drive our car. Because we are going through the transfer process, we don't qualify for the CAP program or the vehicle retirement program. We are really out of options and do want to keep the vehicle.

Thank you

Answer:

There is no way to bypass the check engine light. What ever is causing the light to illuminate must be diagnosed, the fault repaired, and the trouble codes cleared, before your Mitsubishi can pass the smog inspection. Our recommendation is you have a certified smog repair shop conduct a full system diagnosis. Along with the "Check Engine" light being illuminated, there are stored computer codes in the engine contol computer which the smog station will be able to retrieve and use for diagnosing purposes. These codes more then often will direct the smog technician in locating the fault(s).

posted by SmogTips Support