What is a Smog Check?

 
What happens during a smog check?
A trained technician must perform a smog check at a licensed smog shop. If you reside in California, you can get a smog check near Vacaville.  There are four stages of a smog check:
1. Visual Examination
Your vehicle’s emission control systems and component are visually checked to confirm that they are correctly connected. This is usually the shortest part of the test.
2. Functional Inspection 
The technician inspects your vehicle’s exhaust gas cap, ignition timing, fuel evaporation system, and check engine light. This step takes more time and is more in-depth. If all components function properly, your vehicle may proceed to the next stage of the test.
3. OBD Inspection
Modern cars have an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system which they use to self-diagnose and report problems within the vehicle. The technician obtains the required information from the OBD. The data is transmitted to the Bureau of Automobile Repair (BAR). Based on the information received, the BAR determines whether the vehicle is functioning properly. If so, the smog check moves on to the final stage.
4. Tailpipe Emissions Inspection
There is a permissible level of emissions that no vehicle may exceed. The emissions measured from the tailpipe include hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, and oxygen. If your vehicle fails any of the inspections, you will be advised on necessary repairs so it can pass when you try again. If your vehicle passes every step you will be issued a Certificate of Compliance. You will also receive a copy of the Vehicle Inspection Report for the smog check.
Why do I need a smog check?
Harmful emissions from vehicles have a negative impact on human health. It causes poor air quality which can cause serious illness. Vehicles also release Carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming. In California, climate change may lead to more hot months, and it can affect the agricultural sector among others. Regular smog checks are necessary to reduce and eventually eradicate these adverse effects.
Does my vehicle need a smog check?
In California, all vehicles manufactured after 1975 must undergo smog checks and receive a certificate every two years. This law also includes Hybrid cars. However, there are some exceptions to the California Smog Check Program:

• Vehicles that were first purchased and registered in California and are six years or newer do not have to participate. 
• Diesel-powered vehicles manufactured before 1998 and weighing 14,000 lbs. or more do not have to participate.
• Specially constructed vehicles made before 1976 do not have to participate. 
• Electric cars do not have to participate.

Visit a Vacaville Smog Shop to perform a smog check on your vehicle if it meets the requirements.
Tips to pass a smog test
Well-maintained vehicles have a higher chance of passing the smog tests. If your vehicle is not running at optimum levels, you can make some small changes and checks to increase its chances of passing the test. Here are four tips to pass the smog check:

• Ensure your Check Engine light is not on.
• Change the oil if it needs to be changed. Dirty oil can add to the pollutant count.
• Make sure the vehicle’s tires are properly inflated in case of a dynamometer test.
• Use fuel additives to flush out clogged fuel injectors.

Smog near me
Regular smog checks ensure that your vehicle is not releasing excess pollutants into the air. Our Vacaville smog check stations will ensure your vehicle complies with all the requirements of the state of California.