1996 and Newer Cars and Trucks with Computer work or Smog work. Must read info.
Customers need to understand the Calif. State Smog test procedure starting 01-01-04 has changed. We are now required to plug the new generation Smog machine into your 1996 and newer computer system. The Smog machine checks your computer to make sure all the internal function tests are recorded and they all show “pass”. In the past we only had to check your computer system if the “check engine” light was on. This means if any one has done computer related work on your car there may be a problem doing a Smog test.
Under these new rules your car could fail the emission test even if the “check engine” light is not on and you “feel” no difference in engine performance. Some of the internal problems may have to happen several times before your “check engine” light comes on, in some case the new test knows something is not right even before the light comes on.
The bigger dilemma for us comes “after” and if computer repairs have been done. There are only two ways to “clear” the fault codes from the computer system. Drive the car through at least one but possibly “several” drive cycles, which could take a 30 to 90 minute drive, or even longer, or we can clear all the info with a push of the scanner machine button. Here comes the PROBLEM, the car WILL NOT pass the Smog test without the “function tests” reading Pass. So either way, after computer repairs are done the car CAN NOT be smogged until the car is driven enough to satisfy all “drive cycle” and “function test” parameters.
Bottom line is that in most cases someone must drive the car long enough to meet all the parameters before any Smog testing can be done. We know this can be very frustrating and confusing so please do not be afraid to ask one of our service advisers if you have more questions.