Can a car pass a smog test with the Check Engine light on?

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. Make sure that your car idles smooth and drives properly.

Where can I get a certified smog test?

Certified stations are operated all over the area, so you most likely won’t have a problem finding one close to you. Some of the stations may even be able to repair your car after the test. For tests in California, for example, go to https://www.bar.ca.gov/pubwebquery/station/stationlist.aspx.

How often should you get a smog test?

The smog test technician will retrieve the diagnostic reports from the car’s computer during the test. Get an oil change if the car needs it. An oil change is only needed if your car is near the next scheduled service. Oil changes are typically recommended every 3,500-5,000 miles for conventional oil or every 7,500-10,000 miles for synthetic oil.

Can you change your oil before a smog test?

Change Your Oil Before Your Smog Check. The positive crank ventilation (PCV) system of your car has been specially designed to let your engine breathe the fumes that are located in the oil compartments. These fumes are burned during the combustion process. If your engine’s oil is contaminated because of inadequate oil changes, it could cause …

What happens if your car fails the smog test?

Community Answer. The airbag has nothing whatsoever to do with passing the smog test, so even if the “check airbag” light is on, it should not affect the results of the smog test. If the “check engine light” is illuminated, however, that will cause an immediate failure of the smog test. Thanks!

Do you have to pass a smog check to get a car buy back?

A. If you are not considered a low income applicant, your vehicle must have failed a recent smog check in order to be eligible for the Buy Back Program. Low income eligible applicants may apply for the Vehicle Buy Back regardless of whether their vehicles have passed or failed a recent smog inspection.

How can I find out my car’s smog history?

A vehicle’s license plate number may change. For the most accurate results, search by the vehicle’s VIN. Searching for a vehicle’s Smog Check history will not impact the transmission of electronic smog certificates to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for registration purposes.

What’s the fastest way to pass a smog test?

If it takes you twenty minutes to reach the station, you are good to go. If possible, make an appointment at the smog station for your test, so you aren’t waiting in line for an extended period before your smog check. You don’t want your car’s engine turned off and cooling down just before your test.