Stanislaus Smog

My good Friend John Loya is the owner of this beauty 1999 C5

Did you know. Californians getting Smog Checks today may notice that the traditional tailpipe test used for many years has been replaced by a quicker, computer-based test for gasoline-powered cars model-year 2000 and newer, and for most diesel vehicles that are model-year 1998 and newer. This updated test uses the diagnostic capabilities of the vehicle's computer system instead of the traditional tailpipe probe to measure the vehicle's emissions. This On-Board Diagnostic (OBD...) system gathers information and determines if the vehicle's emission control systems are operating properly. A visual inspection of emission control components is still required as well. The OBD only method of testing vehicles is the result of 2010 legislation (AB 2289-Eng) which is designed to improve the Smog Check Program and further reduce air pollution. The Smog Check program removes hundreds of tons of smog-forming pollutants from California's air every day. Gasoline-powered vehicles model-year 1999 and older will continue to receive Smog Checks using a tailpipe probe as well as the OBD test.

What's a Star Station? The STAR Program began January 1, 2013 and replaced the out dated Gold Shield program. The STAR Program is a certification program for both Test-Only and Test-and-Repair Smog Check stations that wish to certify directed and gross-polluting vehicles. STAR Test-and-Repair stations also must provide repair assistance services under BAR's Consumer Assistance Program.

Looking forward to seeing all my Corvette friends tomorrow at Stanislaus Smog to decorate their cars with lights in preparation for the Christmas Parade of Lights tomorrow night.

Whats a "Check Engine Light" On vehicles with onboard computer controlled engine systems the computer is capable of monitoring various electronic and mechanical components for proper operation. When a fault is detected it sets the check engine light to warn the operator of the fault. Referred to as the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light) in the business. The light has two modes constant on and flashing. If the light is flashing it means your vehicle has a serious problem and damage may be occurring. If you notice this light is flashing the operator should as soon as safe move the vehicle off the road and shut the engine off and have a certified mechanic look into the problem.

A Vehicle Retirement Program is available to motorists who want to voluntarily retire their vehicle rather than repair it. Eligible consumers can receive $1000 in exchange for their vehicle. Find out more by clicking on the link below. http://www.smogcheck.ca.gov//Facts/English%20VR%20FAQs.pdf

Not all vehicles must get a smog check. Additionally, some vehicles only need a passing smog check when they are being sold or being registered in California after previously being registered in another state. Whether or not a vehicle needs a smog check depends on the type of vehicle, the model-year, and the area in which the vehicle is registered. follow this link to find out more. http://www.smogcheck.ca.gov//01_/01_DoINeedaSmogCheck.html

Things You Should Know! If your vehicle is 1996 and newer and has lost electrical power to the computer in the last 100 miles, your vehicle may fail the inspection. You should ask an emissions repair technician to check your vehicle's monitors before the smog test.

Things You Should Know! If your vehicle has emissions related after market parts i.e.; cold air intake, headers and exhaust components they must be approved by the California Air Resource Board and have been issued and executive order# attached to the part in order to pass the inspection.

Things You Should Know! If visible smoke is coming from your vehicle's tail pipe during idle or during a snap throttle test, your vehicle will fail the inspection.

Things You Should Know! If your "Check Engine" light is on your vehicle will fail the Smog Check. You should probably have the test done anyway to get a Vehicle information report that lists "ALL" the areas your vehicle might fail the inspection.