West Coast Smog

A well-maintained vehicle should be able to pass an annual vehicle smog test the first time without a problem. The key to a passing grade is consistent vehicle maintenance year in and year out.

How much smog in a city is caused by automobiles? While the formation of smog includes a complex reaction between different types of chemicals, in most cities, more than half of all the smog produced is attributed to vehicle traffic.

One of the two main components of smog is particulate matter. Tiny particles, so small and light that they float in the air, are what give smog its brownish, gray, or white color. The particulates mainly come from motor vehicle exhaust and factory emissions.

The Great Smog of London was also a result of the country's post-war economic hardships as Britain had to export high quality coal known as ‘hard coal’. For domestic use, they used low quality coal with a high sulfur content.

In some states, all vehicles from 1975 and older are exempt from all aspects of the Smog Check program, but owners of these vehicles are required by law to keep their emissions system intact.

According to state law, we cannot refuse to run your vehicle through a smog check even if our technician sees that your Check Engine Light is constantly on. We are required to conduct the test and fail your car.

If your car has failed its smog check, not to worry. Most emissions repairs are relatively simple and inexpensive, and will improve the operation and overall functionality (including gas mileage) of your vehicle.

At a recent health congress in London, a member used a new term ‘smog’ It is not exactly a pretty word, but it fits very well the thing it represents, and it has only to become known to be popular. (Journal of the American Medical Association, 1905)

There are mixed opinions on whether using fuel additives will improve the results of vehicle emissions tests. If you have a newer, well-maintained vehicle and use good-quality gasoline, then your car does not need it. If the opposite is true, then a fuel additive may help.

Smog testing is an important tool in combating air pollution. Not only does it damage the environment, but it’s been linked to various health issues, including cancer, birth defects, and even nerve damage.

By polluting more than allowed by legislative norms you are not only compromising the health of your children, but also expose yourself to a hefty fine. Be safe and take a smog check.

Are you moving here from a state that didn’t require smog emissions testing? If so, it’s important to get your car smog tested as soon as possible. Otherwise, you may not be able to register your car in the state.

Smog Quiz: Q: The worst environmental disaster involving chemical waste in U.S. history, in New York state's Love Canal development, was detected in what year? A) 1978; B) 1951; C) 1956; D) 1982. A: "A" Later studies showed a high rate of genetic damage to area residents.

Smog inspections are more about the safety of humans than vehicles. The testing ensures that vehicles that are not operating properly and releasing excessive pollutants through the exhaust system are found and the exhaust issues are corrected.