Category: Smog

2026 Smog Test

Passing the smog test is vitally important, and starting in 2026, a new law will make passing a smog test more challenging. Previously, the computer monitoring system would ignore one incomplete monitor, but the new law requires all monitors be completed to pass the smog check.

2026 Smog Test

Helping Your Vehicle Pass the Test

-Don’t forget to bring your DMV renewal notice with you to the smog check facility so the bar code can be scanned in.

-Drive your vehicle for 30 minutes prior to the smog test so your car can be at full operating temperature.

-Use the correct grade of fuel (see your owner’s manual) and fill up your vehicle prior to the test.

-A clean air filter and fresh engine oil is always a good idea.

-If you are a short trip driver, take your vehicle on an extended spin the week of your test.  Try to go on the freeway so you can get up to speed. Your vehicle actually performs better on longer freeway driving trips than short stop and start trips. To really help it along take it uphill, on surface streets and overall make the trip at least 30 minutes long.

-If you have been ignoring a check engine light or other dashboard warning light get it fixed prior to the smog test. (It will fail automatically if a light is on.)

Note: If the battery has gone dead or has been replaced, or the check engine light was just fixed, drive your car for a week with at least 10 starts to set all the emission monitors.

I hope you find these tips helpful and that your vehicle gets a passing grade.  Remember, we not only service and repair vehicles, but we are also a Smog Check Test Center.

Please call us with any questions at 626-852-0908 or visit our website.

    Passing the Smog Test

    Gene-Car-Talk

     

    Passing the smog test in Glendora is vitally important, of course, and here a few tips to make sure your car or light truck can ace its test!

    1. Bring your DMV renewal notice with you to the smog check facility.  There is a bar code on it that we have to scan in.
    2. Drive around about 30 minutes’ prior so your car can be at full operating temperature. On the freeway for 10 minutes at 60 MPH can also help.
    3. Use the correct grade of fuel (see your owner’s manual) and fill up your vehicle prior to the test.
    4. A clean air filter and fresh engine oil is always a good idea.
    5. If you are a short trip driver take your vehicle on an extended spin the week of your test.  Try to go on the freeway so you can get up to speed. Your vehicle actually performs better on longer freeway driving trips than short stop and start trips. To really help it along take it uphill, on surface streets and overall make the trip at least 30 minutes long.
    6. One of the most important items is your car’s gas cap.  Does it fit properly?  Is it in good working condition? If you don’t even have a gas cap your car will automatically fail the test.
    7. Lighten up your vehicle!  If your trunk or other storage space is filled with weighty items, it hurts your vehicle’s chance of passing the test. The dynamometer does weigh your vehicle.
    8. We strap your vehicle down on a dynamometer for the test to assure that it does well under stressful conditions.  Make sure it doesn’t have fluid leaks and other safety issues prior to the test.
    9. Tires must be the original specified as the test is calibrated to run stock sized tires for your vehicle make and model.  Make sure the tires are properly inflated and in good condition.
    10. If you have been ignoring a check engine light or other dash board warning light get it fixed prior to the test.

    I hope you find these helpful and that your vehicle gets a passing grade.  Remember, at Certified Automotive Specialists, we not only service and repair vehicles, we are a Smog Check Test Center.

    Please call us with any questions at 626-963-0814 or visit our website at www.CertifiedAutoCA.com.

    Hometown Service You Can Count On!