California's Smog Check Program, run by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), requires most gasoline vehicles to pass an emissions inspection every two years and at change of ownership. A failed test comes with a report showing which part of the inspection the car did not pass, whether that was the on-board diagnostic check, a visual inspection of emissions equipment, or a functional test.
Anywhere Automotive lists emission repair and California emissions work on its core service menu, and Mike Babcock mastered smog work as a technician before founding the shop.
Common reasons vehicles fail smog
- Check engine light on or diagnostic readiness monitors not complete
- Evaporative emissions leaks, including a faulty gas cap
- A catalytic converter that is no longer efficient
- Oxygen sensor, EGR or air injection system faults
- Missing or modified emissions equipment found on visual inspection
What we do after a failed smog test
Bring your failed inspection report. We use it to focus our diagnosis on the part of the test that failed, confirm the cause, and repair it. If the fix required clearing codes, we will explain the drive cycle needed for the readiness monitors to complete before you retest.
We will be clear about what the repair involves and whether any state assistance options may apply. Retesting is done at a licensed Smog Check station.
Driving in Concord and Contra Costa County
Hot summer temperatures in Concord and the inland parts of Contra Costa County put extra stress on evaporative emissions components and rubber hoses, which is one reason EVAP leaks are such a common smog failure here.
Questions about smog & emissions repair
How often does California require a smog check?
Most gasoline vehicles need a smog check every two years for registration renewal and when ownership changes, with some exemptions for newer vehicles. Your DMV renewal notice will say if one is required.
Do you perform the smog test itself?
This page covers emissions repair after a failed test. Call us and we will tell you the best way to handle both the repair and the retest for your vehicle.
Published by Anywhere Automotive, Concord, CA. Diagnosis and pricing are confirmed after inspection.