If you drive a vehicle in California, regular smog checks are an important part of car ownership. However, determining when your next test may be due can sometimes be unclear. Let’s take a deeper look at smog check requirements in the state and how you can prepare with help from EZ Smog Check.
Smog Check Requirements
According to the California Smog Check Program, most passenger vehicles are required to undergo an emissions inspection once every two years as part of their registration renewal. However, there are a few exemptions to this rule:
- Cars that are six model years old or newer do not need to be smog checked.
- Some hybrid, electric, and alternative fuel vehicles may also be exempt. It’s best to check the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) website for details on your specific vehicle make and model.
To verify if your car needs a smog inspection during the current registration period, check your registration renewal notice carefully. This document will specify whether a smog certification is due or not. You can also visit the BAR site and search by your license plate or VIN number.
Importance of Staying Compliant
It’s important to stay on top of these requirements, as failing to complete a mandatory smog check can delay renewing your vehicle registration. You may also face fines if caught driving without a valid certification.
Tips to Pass Your Smog Check
To help your vehicle pass its biennial emissions test, proper maintenance is key:
- Stick to the recommended service schedule: Regular fluid changes, brake inspections, and tune-ups will keep your engine running as cleanly as possible.
- Consider fuel additives: Some drivers choose to use fuel additives designed to reduce emissions when used consistently.
Why Choose EZ Smog Check?
At EZ Smog Check, our highly trained technicians use state-of-the-art BAR-approved equipment to conduct accurate and reliable smog tests. As a certified repair station, you can trust that your vehicle will receive a thorough inspection.
By staying on top of maintenance and choosing a reputable smog check provider, you give your car the best chance at a successful smog certification. Contact EZ Smog Check today to book your biennial emissions test and stay in compliance.
