California residents, car doesn't pass smog, what are my options? (2024)

FAQs

What are my options if my car won't pass smog? ›

Apply to the Consumer Assistance Program – The Consumer Assistance Program offers income-eligible consumers assistance toward emissions-related repairs at a STAR test-and-repair station if their vehicle fails its biennial Smog Check inspection.

When an automobile fails a smog test in California, it doesn't necessarily mean you can no longer drive it. Your car just won't be registered, meaning you run the chance of getting pulled over and fined. Therefore, it's wise to get those necessary repairs as soon as possible to avoid this inconvenience.

Make an appointment at a Referee station and bring documentation of two failed smog tests and receipts for money spent on repairs at a licensed smog repair station as well as diagnostics. If you meet the qualifications, you will be granted a waiver that allows you to pass the test without the repairs.

The state of California has stringent laws around vehicle inspections. As the vehicle seller, you are legally required to provide the buyer with a valid smog certificate at the time of sale. The buyer should also be informed that the provided smog certification is only valid for 90 days after the date it is issued.

If your vehicle has recently failed a smog check or does not meet the Vehicle Buy Back program requirements, you can contact the California Bureau of Automotive Repair's Consumer Assistance Program at 1-866-272-9642.

Eligible consumers may receive up to $1,200 in emissions-related repairs at a STAR test-and-repair station if their vehicle fails its biennial Smog Check inspection.

As for what happens if you fail an emissions test twice, you may be able to apply for a waiver due to economic hardship or a maximum repair cost limit imposed by your state or local government.

it definitely will not pass. You must have the correct converter for your vehicle. And the smog techs know what is correct for your year and model. How do I reset my catalytic converter so it can pass a smog check?

California law requires emission testing of most vehicles registered in the state. If your vehicle fails to pass its first smog check, there is no need for distress—each smog test you purchase includes a free 90-day retest of vehicle emissions to offer you a second opportunity to pass the required vehicle smog check.

Zip code 90704 (Avalon or Catalina Island) is exempt from smog requirements per Health & Safety Code §44044(A). It is the only exempt zip code in Los Angeles County (19).

Can you renew registration without smog CA? ›

Even if you pay your registration fees, if your vehicle does not meet other requirements (like smog certification or outstanding parking tickets), your registration will not be renewed. In this case, you have to pay your parking tickets or get your smog certification before you can renew your registration.

Serious problems could develop from a violation of the expired registration California laws. Sometimes there are valid reasons for not making the registration on time, but if your tags are more than six months past the renewal date, your vehicle can be towed away and impounded.

Note: No car will pass a smog test if the Check Engine light is on. If you take your car in for a test with the Check Engine light on, you will fail. Be sure to take your car to the mechanic when the light turns on, and before taking it in for a test so you don't waste your time.

DMV Registration Renewals: Question: Can I pay my DMV registration renewal fee before smogging my vehicle? Answer: Yes, you can pay your renewal fee now to avoid penalties even if you need a smog test! You may pay the fee online or mail in a check.

Yes, you can. Under California law you have to provide proof of a smog certification to the new owner. If the car cannot pass a smog check, it can only be sold as a 'salvage' or a 'parts' car. That's California law.

In California, you are required to pass a smog check in order to register your vehicle. A smog check is designed to check the emission levels of your vehicle and your vehicle's exhaust system.