Smog Check
in Sacramento, CA

In California, most vehicles must undergo regular smog checks to comply with state emission regulations. As a resident of Sacramento, understanding when your vehicle requires a smog check is crucial. Generally, a smog check is required every two years for vehicle registration renewal.

However, if you are selling a vehicle that is more than four years old, a smog certificate must be provided to the new owner. Additionally, new residents moving to California must get their vehicles tested as part of the initial registration process.

There are a few exceptions to these rules. For instance, electric vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, and certain older vehicles are exempt from smog checks. Moreover, if your vehicle is less than six years old, you may pay an annual smog abatement fee instead of undergoing a smog check.

It’s important to stay informed about your specific vehicle requirements, as failure to comply can result in registration renewal issues. At Natomas Smog Shop & Auto Repair, we help Sacramento drivers navigate these regulations, ensuring your vehicle remains compliant with state laws.

At Natomas Smog Shop & Auto Repair, the smog check process begins with a visual inspection of your vehicle's emission control components. This initial step ensures all parts are in place and functioning properly. Following this, we conduct a functional test of the vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system. 

Modern vehicles are equipped with computers that monitor and control the emission system’s performance. The OBD test checks for any fault codes that may indicate malfunctioning emissions-related components.

The main part of the smog check involves measuring the vehicle's exhaust emissions. We use state-of-the-art equipment to analyze the levels of various pollutants, such as carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, emitted by your vehicle.

This process helps us determine whether your vehicle meets California's emission standards. If your vehicle fails the smog check, we provide detailed diagnostics and recommendations for necessary repairs to help your vehicle pass upon retest.

Comprehensive Smog Check Services - Sacramento, CA

Natomas Smog Shop & Auto Repair offers a full range of smog check services, catering to all vehicle types and models. Our services include regular biennial smog checks, change-of-ownership smog checks, out-of-state vehicle inspections, and initial registration smog checks for new California residents.

We are also equipped to handle smog checks for vehicles requiring STAR certification.