Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I know if I need a smog check?

    Every two years you will need to get a smog check for your DMV registration renewal. Most vehicles older than four years need a smog check when they are bought or sold. Most out of state vehicles seeking registration in California need a smog check. There are exceptions to the above situations. Visit the BAR or DMV website or call us about your circumstance.

  • Do I need to smog my diesel vehicle?

    Maybe. Diesel vehicles 1997 and older are smog exempt. Diesel vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight over 14,500 lbs are also exempt from the smog inspection.

  • Can you smog my all-wheel drive vehicle?

    Yes. All-wheel drive vehicles are smogged doing a two-speed idle test rather than being tested on a dynamometer.

  • Can you smog my full-sized motorhome?

    Yes

  • My renewal notice doesn't specify that I need to go to a test-only center. Can you still smog it?

    Yes. We can perform a smog test on your car whether or not it has been directed to a test-only center. Since we are "TEST ONLY" STATIONS, You are going to get a fair and unbiased test, because we don't do any repairs. Effective January 1, 2013 the "TEST ONLY" certification will be replaced by the STAR Program. Auto Chek Centers is STAR certified and can test all vehicles.

  • Can you send my smog results to the DMV if I don't have my renewal form with me?

    Yes. We use the Vehicle Identification Number that is imprinted on the vehicle itself to identify the vehicle with the DMV.

  • Will my car pass with the check engine light on?

    No. However, you may still want to have your car smogged anyway to make sure your vehicle passes the other parts of the test (emission, functional, visual). This can save you time by avoiding return visits to your mechanic. We will provide you with the test results showing where the vehicle did not pass, including any available trouble codes set on your on-board computer. Your mechanic will have these results to help with the repair of your vehicle.

  • Will my car pass with an aftermarket air intake or other modification?

    Aftermarket parts such as air intakes need a sticker with an eo# affixed to the vehicle to prove that those parts are legal for street use in California. If you have specific questions about specific parts on your car, ask us before we start the smog check, not after we start.

  • Do I need an appointment?

    No appointment needed - we work on a first-come first-served basis.

  • If my vehicle fails, will I get a free re-test?

    Yes, you will receive one free retest and it never expires.

  • What if I need to do repairs in order to pass?

    We can give you a CA State provided list of licensed repair sites and then you can retest at any of our six locations for free.

  • Can I complete my DMV registration onsite?

    Yes, you can pay your fees and get your tags here all at the same time.

  • Can I use a credit card?

    Yes, we take Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover cards.

  • I just purchased a vehicle. Can I complete the title and registration on site?

    Yes, in most cases, we can immediately issue the registration in your name.