Auto Start

Yes. Auto Start is STAR certified with the California Bureau of Automotive Repair, so it can test vehicles the DMV directs to a STAR station, including gross polluters.

No. Auto Start is licensed as a Test & Repair station. This station can run your smog test and, if the vehicle fails, diagnose and repair it in the same shop.

Auto Start is open Monday 8 AM to 5 PM; Tuesday 8 AM to 5 PM; Wednesday 8 AM to 5 PM; Thursday 8 AM to 5 PM; Friday 8 AM to 5 PM. Closed Saturday and Sunday. Hours can change on holidays, so call ahead if you are cutting it close.

Yes. Auto Start accepts walk-ins, so you can drive in without booking ahead.

Auto Start accepts Credit Card, Debit Card, NFC/Contactless.

Google lists the following accessibility features at Auto Start: wheelchair accessible entrance, wheelchair accessible parking, wheelchair accessible restroom.

Auto Start has held a BAR smog license since 2015. You can verify the license status at bar.ca.gov.

Auto Start has not published a price on SmogCheckDeals. The Bureau of Automotive Repair puts the statewide average at $69.16 as of August 2026, about $65 for a 2000-or-newer vehicle and $73 for 1999-or-older, plus the $8.25 certificate fee. Call (916) 714-2886 for a quote.

Auto Start does not take online bookings here, but walk-ins are welcome. Call (916) 714-2886 to check the wait.

Staff at Auto Start speak English.

Bring the car, your registration or DMV renewal notice, and a way to pay. Most smog checks take 15 to 30 minutes, and most visits are closer to 20.

Because Auto Start is a Test & Repair station, it can diagnose and repair the problem in the same shop, then run the free retest within 30 days. If the repair bill is steep, California's Consumer Assistance Program covers up to $1,200 of emissions repairs for qualifying owners.

The closest alternatives in Elk Grove are Advance Import Auto and 1st Choice Smog N Tag (0.1 mi). Both are listed further up this page with their ratings and hours.