California Vehicle Inspection in DTLA

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At Nissan of Downtown L.A., we’re proud to be your trusted resource for all your financing and servicing needs. Our guide below is your look at the California vehicle safety inspection requirements needed to avoid any penalties or fees. We’ll also answer your top questions like, “Do cars in California need to be inspected?” And, “How often do I need a smog check in Cali?” If you have any questions, please contact our service center.

 

 

California Vehicle Safety Inspection Requirements: What to Know

Do cars in California need to be inspected? Yes, they do! Vehicles typically require an inspection every two years. Failing the test or ignoring it could result in penalties and fines. The process is straightforward, and you just need to bring your car to a licensed inspection center near Huntington Park or Van Nuys. There is a small fee between $30 and $70. During the inspection, they’ll look for any damages to the following mechanical features and functions:

  • Fluid levels
  • Any potential leaks
  • Mechanical integrity
  • Carbon emissions

Then there is the smog test, which is crucial since it can create dangerous air quality levels. 

 

How Often Do I Need a Smog Check?

A smog test must be done every other year as part of your vehicle registration process. If your vehicle is a 1976 model year or newer, it must pass the smog check. The following vehicles don’t require the smog check:

  • Gas-powered, hybrid, and alternative-fuel vehicles that are model-year 1975 and older
  • Gasoline-powered, hybrid, and alternative-fuel vehicles that are eight model years and newer do not require a biennial Smog Check.
  • Gasoline-powered, hybrid, and alternative-fuel vehicles that are four model years and newer do not require a change-of-ownership Smog Check.
  • Diesel-powered vehicles that are model-year 1997 and older
  • Diesel-powered cars with a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,000 pounds or higher
  • Electric-powered vehicles
  • Motorcycles

 

What Happens if My Car Doesn’t Pass Smog Check in California?

If your car doesn’t pass the smog check, it’s because of one of the following reasons:

  • The check engine light is on
  • Dirty air filter
  • Leaking gas cap
  • Old spark plugs leading to an increase in hydrocarbon emissions
  • Malfunctioning evaporative emission control system (EVAP)
  • Problems with the catalytic converter

If you fail the test, you’ll receive an outlined list of why the vehicle didn’t pass. You must get the required repairs right away to avoid any issues.

 

Get More California Vehicle Inspection Info in DTLA Today!

If you have questions about the California inspection requirements, please contact the service experts at our Los Angeles service center today! Our team works hard to ensure your vehicle meets the requirements so it passes the California state inspection. 

 

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