Do you require a smog check as part of your vehicle’s registration? Perhaps you’re registering a vehicle for the first time, and you’re wondering if you can claim a smog test exemption. Here at Dublin Toyota, we’ve put together a guide to help you understand the key points about smog tests in Dublin, California, and where you can get a test done.
California Smog Test Requirements
The state government introduced smog tests to limit vehicle emissions in California. This test can be required when you newly register or reregister a car, truck, or SUV. As part of the test, an inspector will examine your tailpipe and related equipment, including emissions reduction features. They’ll also look at other parts of your vehicle to ensure they’re in good working order and that you don’t have any issues, such as a warning engine light.
Several types of vehicles are exempt from the smog test requirement. If you drive a car built before 1975, it’s exempt. You also won’t need to perform a smog test for an electric vehicle, a diesel-powered vehicle built before 1997, or a natural gas-powered vehicle weighing more than 14,000 pounds.
You are exempt if you drive an electric or a gas-powered vehicle less than eight model years old. These exemptions can help make the vehicle registration process a bit easier and save you the $30 to $60 that a typical smog test costs.
If your vehicle requires smog testing, there are several steps you can take to make sure it passes the first time around. First, it’s well worth getting all your routine maintenance updated. For example, if you’re approaching your next oil change, stop by our Dublin service center for an oil change. Smog test inspectors may be more likely to find fault with a vehicle with low engine oil levels because they may associate this with poorer emissions performance.
It’s also worth driving your car at highway speeds for about 15 minutes before you head to the test center. That’s because warming up your car can help produce a more accurate reading of your car’s emissions during the test. Finally, you may consider taking a pre-test inspection at one of Dublin’s smog testing locations. During this inspection, a specialist will point out any problems with your vehicle that would cause you to automatically fail the test. This will allow you to resolve any issues before performing the smog test.
There is a good selection of smog test stations in and around Dublin. Check out one on our list and let us know what you think of their services.
Smog Station
This location is STAR certified, a government program to ensure the quality of a smog test. You can get a certificate at Smog Station simply by dropping by during business hours, as no appointment is necessary. Smog Station has been serving Dublin drivers since 1984 and has expert technicians on-site six days a week. In addition to performing smog tests, they can handle a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance requests.
Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.
Location: 6355 Scarlett Court, Suite 9, Dublin.
Dublin Smog Test
At Dublin Smog Test, you can take care of your biennial smog test and vehicle registration in no time. Another big bonus about this test site is that they offer Sunday hours, which may come in handy if you don’t have the time during the week to get your test done. On top of testing your car, the team at Dublin Smog Test can handle brake repairs, fluid flushes, and other general vehicle maintenance tasks. You can email them or fill out the online form to arrange an appointment.
Hours: Closed Monday through Thursday. Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
Location: 6427 Golden Gate Drive, Dublin.
Dublin Automotive and Smog
You can reserve an appointment at Dublin Automotive and Smog for your smog test or drop by. Their team of auto technicians can also perform emissions servicing on your vehicle, including repairs and improvements to your exhaust system. The test center also offers more general auto repairs, whether you’re having problems with your air conditioning, heating, or engine.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
Location: 7034 Village Parkway, Dublin.
Dougherty Road Smog
Located conveniently on Dougherty Road, this location can deal with everything surrounding your smog test. You can choose to make an appointment or drop by, and they’ll be happy to help. If you can’t make it during the week, call ahead to arrange for an appointment on Saturday.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Friday, and call for appointments on Saturday.
Location: 6055 Dougherty Road, Dublin.
Smog King Test Station
At Smog King, you get a premium test service with a comfortable place to relax while the professionals take care of your vehicle. You can get a detailed presentation of your test results, including the performance of specific components, or just the “pass” or “fail” grade. The test includes a visual inspection of your vehicle, testing various components, and testing the level of emissions from your exhaust. While you wait, you can read the complimentary newspapers on offer or browse online, thanks to their free Wi-Fi.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Location: 19 Beta Court, San Ramon.
So, there you have a list of smog test centers easily accessible from Dublin. Did we include a test center you’ve used before? Or maybe we missed one you’ve had a great experience with? Contact us with your comments about our smog test guide, and feel free to ask any questions you may have. We’d be delighted to share your smog test tips in a future blog post.
Smoke Coming From the Exhaust Pipes by Khunkorn Laowisit Is licensed with Pexels
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