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Smog Inspections in Riverside, CA

Your Certified Smog Check Station

The California Department of Motor Vehicles requires smog inspections for most diesel, hybrid, and alternative fuel vehicles made in 1976 or later. Smog Inspections must be performed annually, and a car must pass the inspection to complete the vehicle's registration process. This process can be confusing for many auto owners, so if your vehicle is due for a smog inspection, come see us at Ultimate Performance Auto & Truck Repair. We are conveniently located at 8584 Limonite Avenue for our customers in Riverside, California and the surrounding areas.

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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Smog Inspections

Why Does California Require a Smog Inspection?

Mandatory smog inspections were implemented in the 1970s as part of the Clean Air Act. Smog inspections are required in most California counties due to the growing number of registered vehicles to help monitor and eliminate excess smog and keep toxins out of the environment to help create a cleaner environment.

What Happens During a Smog Inspection?

During a smog inspection, certified technicians will measure your exhaust system's efficiency to ensure that a vehicle does not emit too many contaminants (i.e., smog). During a smog inspection, we conduct the following:

  1. Visual inspection of emission control systems and components
  2. A complete inspection of the vehicle's engine, including the check engine light, ignition timing, exhaust gas recirculation system, evaporative fuel system, and tailpipe emissions
  3. A complete inspection of the vehicle's On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system

How Often Does A Vehicle Need to Be Inspected?

Smog inspections are required every other year for vehicles older than eight years. Additionally, a smog inspection is required if you are selling a car that is more than four years old or if you are registering an out-of-state vehicle for the first time in California.

How Long Does a Smog Inspection Take?

A smog inspection typically takes about 30 minutes to one hour to complete.

How Can I Help My Vehicle Pass a Smog Inspection?

One of the best ways to ensure your vehicle passes a smog inspection is by performing routine maintenance in compliance with your vehicle's owner's manual. Your vehicle's check engine light is one of the key indicators that your vehicle may need professional maintenance and repairs.

What Happens if My Vehicle Fails a Smog Inspection?

If your vehicle fails a smog inspection, it may be due to the car needing professional maintenance or repairs. Ask the inspector who performed your smog inspection to explain the reason for the failed inspection and ask the repair technician if it is possible for them to fix the problem.

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Let Us Inspect Your Vehicle Today

During a smog inspection, a qualified service mechanic will analyze your vehicle's emissions and measure the amount of hydrogen, oxygen, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxide to ensure that your car does not release harmful pollutants into the air. If your vehicle fails to pass a smog inspection, it could mean that professional auto repair is required. Schedule your smog inspection with Ultimate Performance Auto & Truck Repair today by giving us a call at (951) 360-8518. Additionally, you can also bring your vehicle into our shop conveniently located in Riverside, California at 8584 Limonite Avenue.