What Happens If Your Car Fails The Smog Test In California?

Your smog test is a vehicle registration requirement for the State of California by the DMV. You have two options if your vehicle smog check does not pass: fix the damaged components or stop driving your car. If your smog check fails, your DMV registration can’t be renewed.

Emission Repair Cost

The cost could come as a surprise once you fail a car emissions test and you decide to seek repairs. It is costly to fix many of the issues that may cause your smog check to fail. A replacement catalytic converter is routinely between $1,000 and $2,000 for part and labor. However, an EGR failure on a Ford 6.0-liter engine could run very well for several thousand dollars, involving a new EGR valve, cleaning or replacement of the oil cooler, and the labor to change them.

Often the only fix needed is a new fuel filler cap or a minor repair such as an EVAP purge control solenoid. You might get lucky. There’s a chance you could get away with a $200 bill, but that’s not the rule.

How To Pass A Smog Test?

• Be proactive
  As soon as you get a registration renewal notice calling for a smog check, mark your calendar and begin preparing.  Every two years, or before selling a vehicle, most states require emission checks, but prices, specifications and methods of testing differ. For instance, a dynamometer test is used by some stations, especially for older cars, which allows the wheels to turn and simulate driving conditions. So review your note to see if your vehicle needs to be taken to a particular form of station.
  

• Conduct necessary maintenance
  The manual for your car owner specifies appropriate repairs at various mileage intervals. Before getting your car checked, discuss any required service objects. But don’t just wait for a smog inspection to do routine maintenance. Perform oil changes and tuneups on a regular basis and make sure your tires are fully inflated. Then, you’ll be ready when a smog test is needed. You should also choose to use a fuel injector cleaner, which can help clean your engine’s carbon deposits and minimize emissions.
  

• Clear your engine light controls
  If your engine control light is on, you have an issue that needs to be fixed immediately. Problems that cause the engine light to be checked can require inexpensive fixes, such as Problems that cause the engine light to be checked can require inexpensive fixes, such as Find out what causes your engine light to illuminate and repair it. But you need to drive even after repairs that clear the control engine light, before the car’s computer verifies that all operating systems are functioning properly. That’s why it’s such a helpful next step.
  

• Get your car pre-checked.
  Some Auto stores offer a free diagnostic review that you can use to pre-test your car for readiness for smog-check. These tests are not for smog tests alone, but they will alert you to any remaining problems. This is particularly helpful if you have just done repairs or you may struggle if you have an older car you’re worried about.