How to Know That Your Car Needs Smog Check in California

Introduction to Smog Check Requirements in California

As of January 1, 2020, all vehicles registered in California must complete a smog check every two years. The specific requirements for each vehicle vary depending on the model year, but the general process is as follows: 

1. All cars built in 1976 or later must get a smog check when they're first registered in California.

2. After that, most gas-powered cars must be checked every other year until they're six years old. For example, a car that was first registered in 2018 will need a smog check in 2020, 2022, 2024, etc.

3. Electric and hybrid cars do not need to get smog checks.

4. Once a car is more than six years old, it no longer needs to get smog checks (with some exceptions).

5. If you sell your car, the new owner has to get a smog certificate within 90 days of the sale.

Who Is Required to Get a Smog Check?

All cars that are required to have a smog check must be tested every two years. The specific requirements for each car vary depending on the model year and the location of the vehicle. 

The easiest way to find out if your car needs a smog check is to look up the requirements for your specific car at the California Bureau of Automotive Repair website. All you need is your car’s make, model, and year, and the website will tell you what kind of testing is required. 

If your car is newer than six model years old, it generally will not require a smog check. If your car is a diesel-powered vehicle that weighs 14,000 pounds or less, it also generally will not require a smog check. However, there are some exceptions to these rules, so it’s always best to check the requirements for your specific vehicle before assuming that it does not need to be tested. 

Some counties in California offer programs that exempt certain types of vehicles from needing a smog check. For example, in Vallejo hybrid vehicles are exempt from smog checks. To find out if your county has any exemptions like this, you can contact your local DMV office or visit their website.

What Does the Smog Test Look For?

The smog test looks for emissions from your car that pollute the air. The test measures the amount of pollution coming from your car's tailpipe. If your car emits too much pollution, it will fail the smog test. 

There are two types of smog tests: the visual inspection and the tailpipe test. The visual inspection is when a technician looks at your car to see if it has any visible signs of emissions problems, such as a leaking gas cap or missing catalytic converter. The tailpipe test is when a technician attaches a machine to your car's tailpipe and measures the amount of pollutants coming out of the tailpipe. 

If you fail either the visual inspection or the tailpipe test, you will need to have your car repaired and retested.

How Much Does a Smog Test Cost?

The cost of a smog test in California varies depending on the county in which you reside. In some counties, the test may cost as little as $20, while in others it may cost up to $50. The best way to determine the cost of a smog test in your area is to contact your local DMV or visit their website.

Where Can I Get My Car Checked for a Smog Test?

If your car is a gasoline-powered vehicle that was manufactured in 1976 or later, you'll need to get it smog checked every other year in order to renew your registration. If your car is a diesel-powered vehicle that was manufactured between 1997 and 2009, you'll need to get it smog every other year as well. There are a few exemptions to this rule, so be sure to check with the California DMV before assuming your car needs a smog test.

There are plenty of places where you can get your car checked for a smog test. Many gas stations and auto shops offer the service, and there are also standalone smog check facilities. Prices will vary depending on the provider, but the average cost of a smog test is around $50 to 70$.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to make sure that you adhere to the smog check requirements in California. Doing so not only helps keep the air cleaner, but it can also save you from potential fines and other legal issues. By understanding what types of vehicles require a smog check and knowing when they need to be done, you will ensure that your vehicle is up-to-date with all the necessary regulations And always check for Smog Check Deals in Your Area.