As part of the state's commitment to safeguarding air quality, California requires that you pass an emissions test. Cars contribute significantly to air pollution, so they must be tested to verify that they fulfill the requirements established by air pollution guidelines. Taking your vehicle in for a smog check may be a stressful experience. If your car fails the inspection, it might result in pricey repairs, late DMV registration penalties, and the added stress of unforeseen costs.
Read on to know how to increase your odds of passing the California smog check and what you can do to fix the issue and get back on the road as soon as possible!
Before the Smog Test
If you have a car smog check coming up, there are several things you may do to increase your chances of passing. Most of the procedures are quick, but they will get your vehicle ready for car emissions testing in California.
Perform Necessary Maintenance
The recommended maintenance at various mileage intervals is detailed in your car's owner's handbook. Before getting your vehicle inspected, take care of any essential service items.
However, routine maintenance should not be delayed until a smog test is due. Oil changes and tune-ups should be performed regularly, and your tires should be adequately filled. That way, when the smog check is scheduled, you'll be set.
Clear Your Check Engine Light
Check whether your car's "Check Engine" Light or Malfunction Indicator Lamp is on. A persistently on Check Engine or MIL light indicates an impending smog test failure. Issues that cause the "Check Engine" light to blink may need simple adjustments, such as a loose or broken gas cap, or you may need to pay for more extensive repairs. Determine and correct the issue causing your "Check Engine" light to flicker.
Precheck Your Car
Pre-testing your car before a planned official smog test allows you to plan ahead of time for any fees or problems that may arise when you go in for the actual event.
Whichever the issue, Volvo Cars Burlingame in Burlingame, CA, will diagnose the fault and recommend solutions to address any problem causing your vehicle to fail the emissions test. We will go through all the fixes you'll need to pass the emissions test and any maintenance you'll require.
Tips For Test Day
Check to see whether your gas tank and coolant are both complete. A low gas tank might expose the fuel pump, allowing vapor into the fuel line, resulting in a test failure. On the test day, warm up your vehicle and get the catalytic converter up to operating temperature by driving it for 10-25 minutes at highway speeds. Remove any needless objects from your car to eliminate excess weight, which might lead to an emissions failure.
If You Fail Your Smog Test in California
The DMV requires a smog check for car registration in California. If your vehicle fails the smog inspection, you have two options: fix the damaged parts or quit driving the car. If your smog check fails, you won't be able to renew your DMV registration.
Bring your car to Volvo of Burlingame if you suspect an emission problem. Our skilled specialists can assess your emissions levels and identify if there is an issue that needs to be addressed.
Why Do Cars Fail Smog Tests?
If your vehicle fails its smog test, you must make the necessary repairs before renewing your state auto registration or selling your car. The expense of the repairs is determined by which elements need to be replaced. Here's a list of some likely causes:
- Dirty air filter: If you haven't changed your car's air filter for a while, it might be the reason for your smog test failure.
- Leaking gas cap: Another simple solution, a broken, worn, or incorrectly sealed gas tank cap may cause an increase in emissions.
- Catalytic converter failure: Any issue with this component might result in a smog test failure. Repairs are usually expensive since catalytic converters consist of pricey materials.
- Evaporative emission control system (EVAP): This feature stops your vehicle from emitting fumes from raw gasoline into the environment.
- Defective ignition system: More hydrocarbons are released when a vehicle's ignition system is inefficient.
Volvo Parts & Service in Burlingame
Passing a smog check is only the beginning. Essential car maintenance is crucial for keeping your car and the environment clean.
Looking for cost-effective vehicle repair in the San Francisco Bay Area? Putnam Volvo Cars Burlingame is a reputable Volvo dealer and service center in Burlingame, California. Contact us for tailored and competent car maintenance.
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