Choosing a Smog Check Service Center
You might feel a bit panicky when you receive a vehicle registration renewal notice from the DMV since it means that you’ll have to get a smog check service. However, there’s no need to panic! Getting a smog test isn’t difficult, particularly if you bring your vehicle to a smog check station that offers excellent customer service. There are lots of stations to choose from, but you can find the best possible service provider by taking these steps:
Check your DMV notice
In some cases, the DMV will send you a renewal notice stating that “Smog Certification Required at a STAR Station”. If you see this statement, it simply means that you should bring your car to a STAR-certified automobile smog center. STAR stations are equipped with the Bureau of Automotive Repair On-Board Diagnostic Inspection System (BAR-OIS), which are required when inspecting gasoline and hybrid vehicles with a model-year of 2000 and newer. The BAR-OIS is also required when inspecting diesel vehicles with a model-year of 1998 and newer.
If your DMV renewal notice doesn’t specify that your car needs a STAR station smog test, it means that you can go to a regular smog check service center. Some stations offer Test-Only services, which means they perform smog checks and nothing else, while others offer Test and Repair services, which means they can conduct smog checks and fix your car if it fails the test.
Look for the nearest stations in your area
Once you know the type of smog test you need, start looking for the best smog check stations in your town or city. Ideally, the station should just be a short drive away from your home so you won’t have to go on a lengthy journey just to get a smog test.
Verify the station’s license
Once you find a station in your area, verify with the California Bureau of Automotive Repair to know if the station has a current and valid license. You should also check if the station has had any violations in the past and if they’ve been subject to disciplinary actions.
Take these steps to find the right smog testing station! If you’re in Van Nuys, CA, though, you don’t need to look far since you can always rely on EZ Smog Check. Contact me now at (818) 888-8765 to use my professional smog service!