5 Factors that Could Affect a Smog Test

 

Passing a smog test is crucial to establish that your vehicle adheres to the vehicle laws. It’s also good for both your car’s performance and for the environment when your car is up to state smog standards. Many people are oblivious to the fact that there are many factors that can impact the outcome of a smog test. This is particularly true for older vehicles or vehicles that haven’t been used in a long time and you never got the time to take it for auto repair and service in California. Know about the five factors that could drastically affect the results of your car’s smog test. 

 

COLD ENGINE 

 

It’s not a fair idea to conduct a smog inspection on a car with a cold engine that was just recently started. Normally, you should drive your car for at least 20 minutes before arriving at the smog test center in California. This will ensure that your car’s engine is warmed up, giving it an opportunity to reach proper fuel mixture and combustion levels. 

 

OIL CHANGE 

 

Dirty or contaminated engine oils can also adversely affect a smog test. The engine is prepared to “breathe in” some fumes that are emanating from different oil compartments. These fumes then mix up together and become part of the engine’s combustion. If your oil is dirty or necessitates change, it may lead to a failed smog check. 

 
TIRE INFLATION 

 

During a smog test or car repair in California, a smog technician usually drives your car on a dynamometer to find out various readings. Accurate tire pressure is needed to ensure that the car can be driven properly and in a stable manner during the test. If your tires are not perfectly inflated, they could be a crucial factor, particularly for borderline test results. 

 
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON 

 

If your “check engine” light is on as you enter a smog test, it could also suggest bad results. If your check engine light is continuously illuminated during the smog test, it may be due to an automatic failure. Remember that California state law is that any mechanic can’t refuse the test based on an illuminated check engine light. 

 

REPAIRS NEEDED 

 

If your car needs immediate repairs, you should not subject it to a smog check. There is a very high possibility that the car will fail the smog test completely if major repairs are required. Finish major engine repairs before bringing your car in for the smog inspection. This will increase the car’s possibility of passing drastically. 

Do ensure that you follow these steps to increase your possibilities of passing a smog test.