Is there a difference between a smog check and a smog test?
No real difference. Both refer to the same process: evaluating a vehicle’s emissions system to ensure it complies with state air quality standards. Th...
Read MoreNo real difference. Both refer to the same process: evaluating a vehicle’s emissions system to ensure it complies with state air quality standards. Th...
Read MoreIn California, the official name of the program is the Smog Check Program, as designated by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). While “s...
Read More“Pass or Free Retest” means that if your vehicle fails the smog inspection, the shop will give you one free retest after you’ve repaired the vehicle —...
Read MoreYes, the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) from the California Bureau of Automotive Repair may offer: Up to $1,200 in repair assistance for income-eli...
Read MoreYou'll receive a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) showing what caused the failure (e.g., emissions too high, check engine light, incomplete monitors)....
Read MoreThe smog check fee is for the technician’s time and labor to inspect and test your vehicle. It's similar to paying for a diagnostic, you're paying for...
Read MoreYes. In California, you must pay for the smog inspection regardless of whether your car passes or fails. The fee covers the inspection itself, not the...
Read MoreThe seller must repair the vehicle to pass the test before completing the sale, or clearly disclose the issue and sell the car “as-is” for parts or of...
Read MoreWhile a private agreement can be made, the DMV still holds the seller legally responsible. If the buyer is handed a vehicle without a valid smog, it m...
Read MoreObtain a smog inspection certificate within 90 days before the sale Provide a copy of the certificate to the buyer Complete the smog check even if the...
Read MoreIn California, the seller is legally responsible for providing a valid smog certificate at the time of sale. This applies to most private party vehicl...
Read MoreThe official record that your vehicle passed the smog check. It's automatically sent to the DMV electronically, and a printed copy is usually provided...
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