The Test-Only Smog Check

The Test-Only Smog Check

Some vehicles are required to go to a Test-Only smog check station for their biennial smog inspection. Data gathered by the state of California suggests that Test-Only smog stations conduct a more thorough smog inspection. In fact, Test-Only stations have an overall higher failure rate than Test and Repair stations.

Q. What is a Test-Only station?

A. Test-Only stations are licensed to only perform Smog Checks. State law prohibits them from making repairs.

Q. How will I know if I need to take my car to a Test-Only station?

A. You will be notified on the registration renewal notice sent by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if your vehicle requires a Smog Check at a Test-Only station.

Q. How can I find a Test-Only station?

A. You can find the nearest Test-Only station by visiting the state of California Smog Check website or by calling 1-800-952-5210. If your vehicle requires a Smog Check at a Test-Only station and needs repair, you will automatically qualify for the Consumer Assistance Program

Q: Why am I being sent to a Test-Only station? My car has never failed Smog Check.

A: Your car was most likely picked up in the High Emitter Profile. Even though it may never have failed before, it has been identified through a computer-based selection process as a vehicle which is likely to be emitting unhealthy levels of harmful pollutants. Or, it could be part of the 2 Percent Random Selection Program.

More to come,
Thanks,
Bob

Here is a link to important California Smog Check & Car Enthusiast Websites

Engine Change Guidelines

Engine Change Guidelines

Engine changes can present problems for smog technicians and car owners. Here are guidelines established by the Bureau of Automotive Repair.

What is an engine change?
An engine change is defined as: Any engine that was not originally available from the manufacturer for the specific vehicle year, make, and model.
For instance, you have a 1980 Toyota pick-up. You install a Toyota 3.0 L V-6 engine in this vehicle. This is considered an engine change as the V-6 was not an option from the manufacturer in 1980.

What is a replacement engine?
A replacement engine is defined as: Any engine that was available (an option) from the manufacturer for the specific vehicle year, make, and model.
For instance, you have a 1979 Chevrolet half-ton pick-up originally equipped with a six cylinder engine. You install a 1979 350 CID engine. This is considered a replacement engine since it was an option from the manufacturer. Careful here, all emission equipment that was needed for the 350 engine must be installed.

Engine changes must certified by the Smog Check Referee. Replacement engines can be certified at any Smog Check station. This works well for old vehicles, but on newer vehicles the guidelines become more complex.

Certification Standards

Make sure the engine and emission control configuration are certified to the year of the vehicle or newer, and to the same or more stringent new vehicle certification standard.

Emission Warranty

Voiding the vehicle manufacturer's emission warranty is not allowed.

Emission Control Configuration

Mixing and matching emission control system components could cause a problem and is generally not allowed. Engine and emission control systems must be in an engine-chassis configuration certified by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The engine must meet or exceed the requirements for the year and class of vehicle in which it is installed.

California Certification

A federally (EPA) certified engine cannot be used in a vehicle that was originally certified for California.

Original Equipment

The installed engine and host chassis must retain all of their original emission control equipment. Diesel-to-gasoline conversions must have all gasoline engine and chassis emission control systems installed (such as fill-pipe restricter, catalytic converter and evaporative emission system).

Classification

Don't mix engine and vehicle classifications which will degrade the emission certification standards. For example, a heavy-duty engine cannot be installed in a light-duty chassis even if they have the same displacement. Non-emissions controlled powerplants, such as industrial or off-road use only engines cannot be placed in any exhaust-controlled vehicle.

Engine Modifications

No internal or external engine modifications (cams, pistons, intakes, etc.) may be performed unless the parts are ARB exempted or EPA certified for use in the installed engine.

Computer Controls

If a computer controlled engine is installed in a non-computerized vehicle, the "Check Engine" light (or "Service Engine Soon" light) the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) diagnostic link, and all sensors, switches, on-board computer, and wiring harnesses needed to make the system fully functional must be installed.
Make sure the host vehicle's transmission is compatible with the new engine and computer system.

Smog Inspection

These vehicles must pass a complete Smog Check by the Smog Check Referee. call 1-800-622-7733 for an appointment.

More to come

Thanks,
Bob