Why smog test

Diesel-powered vehicles that are model-year and newer with a gross vehicle weight rating of 14, pounds and less require a Smog Check. There are no model year exceptions for diesel-powered vehicles. Smog Check requirements are based on vehicle type and model year, not the date of manufacture. Smog Check requirements are based on vehicle type and model year. Thus, a vehicle is one model year old when the model year matches the calendar year. For example, a model-year vehicle is one model year old in and nine model years old in Accordingly, a model-year vehicle requires its first biennial Smog Check in Collector cars that are model-year and newer require a Smog Check.

Because Smog Check stations do not have the equipment necessary to inspect collector cars, collector cars are eligible for an abbreviated inspection performed by a Smog Check Referee.

For more information, visit our Collector Car page or asktheref. Passenger vehicles or light-duty trucks owned or leased by federal, state, county, city, and special district agencies require a Smog Check. BAR licenses several different types of Smog Check stations to perform Smog Check Program services and meet the needs of consumers and their vehicles:. If your DMV vehicle registration renewal notice indicates a Smog Check is required, remember to take the notice with you.

This will help ensure that the correct vehicle information and Smog Check certificate are electronically sent to DMV. A blinking or flashing light indicates a malfunction that should be addressed immediately to avoid serious damage to the vehicle. A pretest, or pre-inspection, is an unofficial test performed by a station to help identify emissions-related problems prior to an official Smog Check.

Stations may charge for this service and must obtain consumer authorization before performing the pretest. Smog checks are required for all vehicles except diesel vehicles from or older with a Gross Vehicle Weight of more than 14, lbs. Electric cars, natural gas cars over 14, lbs, motorcycles, trailers, or gasoline-powered cars from and older are also exempt from these laws. The law states that all other vehicles must get a smog check every other year of registration.

You will be notified if you need a smog check to renew your registration when you get your registration renewal notice. There is one loophole. That means if you buy a car in , you will not need to get your first smog check until the year But you will still need to get a smog check in if you buy a model in California and New York have similar smog check laws.

However, the laws vary from state to state. In fact, the laws vary depending on the county in California as well. Check with your local DMV to get specific answers. That means not messing with any of the emission-related equipment and getting your car fixed if the engine light comes on.

If there are blinking lights, that could be another warning sign that there is an issue that needs to be remedied. Taking good care of your car is the best way to pass a smog check. Also, staying on top of the requirements.

So if you get a notice, get a smog check ASAP and bring the notice. Go to an approved testing site and get the results. Getting a smog check is a routine process in many states. Not all states require a smog check though and you may be exempt depending on the type of car you have or where you live. Check with your local transportation authority and if you do need a smog check, shop around for the best places to get one at an affordable cost.

Metromile offers affordable pay-per-mile insurance that is geared toward low-mileage drivers. Grab your free quote today. What is a smog check? The Environmental Protection Agency EPA regulates air emissions in passenger vehicles in the following ways, according to their website: Standards for exhaust and evaporative emissions; Control of hazardous air pollutants and air toxics; National Low Emission Vehicle Program; CAP Compliance Assurance Program ; Onboard refueling vapor recovery; and Inspection and maintenance.