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Smog Tips 

Santa Cruz Motorsports understands that taking your car in for a smog inspection can be a chore and also nerve-wracking, but a little preparation can help your vehicle pass the first time and avoid delays.
 

  1. ​​Make Sure the Check Engine Light is Off​

    • ​If your check engine light is on, car will automatically fail a smog inspection. Have any warning lights diagnosed and repaired before your test.​

  2. Drive the Car Before the Test

    • Take your vehicle for a 15-20 minute drive before arriving. A warm engine runs cleaner and ensures the emissions system is operating normally.

  3. Don't Disconnect the Battery

    • Disconnecting the battery or recently clearing codes resets the vehicle's emissions monitors. If this happens, the car may fail for "not ready" monitors even if nothing is wrong.

  4. Make Sure You Have Enough Fuel

    • Most vehicles need the fuel level between 1/4 and 3/4 of a tank for emissions systems to complete properly.

  5. Fix Known Issues First

    • Problems like:

      • Rough running engine​

      • Poor fuel economy

      • Exhaust leaks

      • Faulty oxygen sensors

  6. Check Basic Maintenance

    • Before testing, make sure:​

      • The air filter is clean​

      • Oil is not extremely dirty

    • Basic maintenance can help improve emissions.

  7. Use the Correct Fuel

    • Using fresh, quality fuel and avoiding very old gas in the tank can sometimes help improve emissions readings.​

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The information included on this page is intended as suggestions and does not guarantee that a vehicle will pass a California Smog Inspection.  It is your responsibility to consult and verify current requirements with the appropriate California Regulatory Agency.  In the event of a discrepancy, the Governing Agency information will supersede.

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