Need a smog check to renew your registration or sell your vehicle? Inland Auto performs certified smog checks right here in our Murrieta shop on Jefferson Avenue, and your results go straight to the DMV. We test model year 2000 and newer vehicles of all makes, not only the Toyota, Lexus and Scion models we specialize in.
Because we are a full-service repair shop, a failed test is not the end of the road. If your vehicle does not pass, our factory-trained technicians can find the cause and, in most cases, make the repair here so you do not have to visit a second shop.
When You Need a Smog Check
California requires a smog check in three situations:
- Registration renewal. Most vehicles are tested every other year. Your DMV renewal notice will tell you when a smog certification is required.
- Selling a vehicle. The seller gives the buyer a current smog certificate. A certificate is good for 90 days.
- Registering a vehicle from out of state. A smog check is part of first-time California registration.
Some vehicles are exempt, including gasoline vehicles from 1975 and older, electric vehicles, and newer vehicles that pay a smog fee with registration instead (the first eight model years for a renewal, the first four for a change of ownership). If you are not sure whether yours needs a test, call us and we will help you sort it out.
What Happens During the Test
- We look over the emissions equipment under the hood to make sure everything the vehicle came with is in place and connected.
- We check that the check engine light and related systems work the way they should.
- We connect the state inspection equipment to your vehicle’s on-board computer and read its emissions data.
- The results are sent electronically to the DMV, and you leave with a printed Vehicle Inspection Report.
A vehicle has to pass every part of the inspection to receive its certificate.
If Your Vehicle Does Not Pass
The most common reason for a failed smog check is a check engine light that is on. We will go over the inspection report with you, diagnose what is causing the problem, and give you an estimate before any repair work begins. Once the repair is made, we test the vehicle again.
California’s Consumer Assistance Program helps eligible owners with the cost of emissions repairs. Ask us and we will point you to the application.
How to Pass the First Time
- If the check engine light is on, have it diagnosed before the test. A lit check engine light is an automatic fail.
- Do not test right after a dead battery, a battery replacement or having trouble codes cleared. The vehicle’s computer needs a week or so of normal driving before it is ready.
- Drive for 15 to 20 minutes before you arrive so the engine is fully warmed up.
- Bring your DMV renewal notice if you have one.
Schedule Your Smog Check in Murrieta
Inland Auto is at 26500 Jefferson Ave., Suite A in Murrieta, a short drive from Temecula, Wildomar, Menifee and French Valley. We are open Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm, and Saturday 8:00am to 2:00pm by appointment. Call ahead for the fastest service.
Call us at (951) 461-4412 or request an appointment online.
