Smog check resources
Gross Polluter: What It Means and How to Fix It
A gross polluter is a car whose initial smog test came in at roughly twice the legal limit. The label sticks to the vehicle record. Here is what it costs you.
Buying a Used Car? Check Its Smog History First
California keeps a public record of every smog inspection a vehicle has taken. Before you buy a used car, spend two minutes reading it. Here is what to look for.
The Check Engine Light and Your Smog Check
An illuminated check engine light fails a California smog check automatically, no matter how clean the exhaust is. Here is why, and what to do about it.
Why Did My Car Fail? The 7 Most Common Smog Check Failures
From a lit check engine light to a $2,000 catalytic converter, here are the seven failures that send California cars home with a red slip, and what each costs.
Which Cars Are Exempt from Smog Checks in California?
Pre-1976 gas, pre-1998 diesel, EVs, motorcycles, and anything 8 model years old or newer. Here's the full exemption list, plus the fees exempt owners still pay.