While getting a smog check done may be an inconvenience, it helps improve air quality by forcing owners to keep their cars in good repair so their cars don't pollute the air. If you're new to a state that requires a smog check, you'll want to understand the laws. You'll probably need a smog test before you can renew your license tag. Here are some other things to know.
Don't Wait Until The Last Minute
If your car is in good shape, it's possible you'll pass the smog test with no problem and you could do it the day you get your tag renewed. However, there's always the potential that your car might not pass which could put you in a bind if you can't renew your tag on time. You could get a ticket for driving with an expired tag or driving with an expired smog check sticker.
Car Maintenance Might Help Your Car Pass
Regular car maintenance keeps your car in good shape so it can pass an emissions test. However, you don't want to have a smog check shortly after you've had work on your car done because resetting the computer might interfere with the results. Instead, schedule car maintenance for several days before your smog test. This can repair minor problems that might cause your car to fail, and it gives you time to put mileage on your car so the smog tester can get an accurate reading.
Repairs Must Be Done Before You Get Your Renewal
Failing a smog test isn't necessarily the end of the world. However, you have to undergo a passing test before you can get your tag renewed. Repairs could be as simple as replacing the air filter or gas cap. However, repairs might also be expensive. In that case, you may need to stop driving your car until you can afford to make repairs. If affording the repairs is an issue, check with your new state of residence to see if they offer an extension or other program that can help so you can renew your tag and keep driving until you can afford to have your car fixed.
Smog Checks Are Independent Facilities
You'll have your smog check done at a testing facility that only does smog testing. If your car doesn't pass, you then go to a different auto repair shop to have the work done. This eliminates worry that you will fail a test just so the mechanic can make money on repairs you don't need. Also, the test is usually quick and easy. Depending on how the shop is set up, you may just pull in a bay next to a computer that does the testing without you having to get out of the car. It's similar to going through a drive-thru window, and if your car passes, you'll get your new sticker and then you can head to the DMV to renew your license plate.
Share13 July 2019
Hello. My name’s Samuel Jacobs. I retired from my job as an auto mechanic last year. During my years as a mechanic, I had the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. Some have remained friends to this day. When I was working, there is one thing that I came across at least weekly. That is how uneducated people are when it comes to their vehicle’s tires. Properly cared for tires are crucial to the safety of your vehicle. Without them, your car isn’t going anywhere. If they give out on you while you are driving, there is the potential for serious injury. I’m going to share some tire safety information here. Things like the importance of correct inflation, how to check the tread, when to replace tires, tire rotation, and what to do in case of a blow-out. I hope you find this information to be helpful.