Posted on 4/28/2025
If you live in California, you probably already know that smog checks are required for most vehicles every two years. However, failing one can lead to unexpected repair costs or delays in registration renewal. The good news? With a little preparation, you can significantly improve your chances of passing your smog check on the first try. Here’s what you need to know before heading to the station. Make Sure Your Check Engine Light Is Off One of the fastest ways to fail a smog test is to have your check engine light on. Even if your car seems to be running fine, a triggered engine light is an automatic failure in California. Sometimes, the issue is minor—like a loose gas cap—but other times, it could be related to emissions components such as the catalytic converter or oxygen sensor. Before your test, make sure the light is off. If it’s been recently reset, drive the car for at least a few days to ensure the system has had time to complete its ... read more