Question 1

What is a STAR station?

Accepted Answer

STAR stations are smog check stations that meet higher performance standards established by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair. Some stations are licensed to perform only tests, while others are licensed to perform both tests and repairs. State law requires that a percentage of vehicles have their smog check inspection performed at a STAR station.

Question 2

Is my vehicle required to get a smog check?

Accepted Answer

Vehicles six years old and newer are not required to participate in the biennial Smog Check Program. For diesel-powered vehicles 1998 model year and newer, 14,000 lbs and less are subject to the biennial Smog Check Program. The six year exemption does not apply to diesel vehicles.

Question 3

How often does my vehicle have to be tested?

Accepted Answer

Your vehicle must be tested every other year. A smog check is also required if you sell your vehicle and it is more than four model years old. Some vehicles may require a smog check at a certified STAR station. Please read your DMV renewal notice carefully.

Question 4

What is a Test-Only Station?

Accepted Answer

Test-Only stations are licensed Smog Check stations that are only allowed to test cars. State law prohibits them from making repairs. VR Smog Check Test Only is a certified DMV smog test only smog center.

Question 5

How much does a smog check cost?

Accepted Answer

Smog check prices vary by area and are not regulated, so you are encouraged to shop around. VR SMOG Check Test Only offers smog check coupons to give you the lowest price. Please visit our coupon page to print smog coupons and read the terms and conditions carefully.

Question 6

How can I help my vehicle pass a smog check?

Accepted Answer

Performing proper and regular vehicle maintenance according to your owner's manual, and not tampering with the emissions control equipment are keys to passing Smog Check.

Question 7

What happens if my vehicle fails a smog check?

Accepted Answer

In order to complete your registration, you will need to obtain the repairs necessary for it to pass its Smog Check retest. Before beginning repairs, find out if you are eligible for the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP).

Question 8

What is CAP and how do I qualify?

Accepted Answer

The Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) provides financial assistance to repair or retire a vehicle that fails a Smog Check. You may qualify for up to $500 in repair assistance once you pay the first $100 in repair costs. If your income is within certain levels, a $20 co-pay is all you need. For vehicle retirement, the State may buy your car for $1,000 and have it scrapped at a local dismantler.

Question 9

What types of smog checks do you perform?

Accepted Answer

At VR SMOG Check we perform DMV smogs, including registration smog check, regular smog check, smog test only, out of state, change of owner (title transfer), gross polluter, pretest and diesel smog inspection. However we don't perform repairs.

Question 10

How can I lower my vehicle emissions level?

Accepted Answer

Warm up the engine by driving your vehicle for a few minutes prior to smog inspection. Check your tires and tire pressure. Use fuel additives to improve combustion. Regular oil changes also help — bad fumes from oil pan leaks can cause a failed inspection.

Resources & FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips to Help Your Vehicle Pass

Warm Up Your Engine

Check Tire Pressure

Use Fuel Additives

Change Your Oil

Helpful Resources

Local DMV Information