Huntington Beach Catalytic Converter Etching- JUST SMOGS® + Repair

* * * SOLD OUT * * *

Advanced reservations required. No walk-ins.

Help protect your car and support law enforcement’s efforts to catch catalytic converter thieves with a free catalytic converter etching.

Catalytic converter etching consists of etching the vehicle’s license plate number onto the exposed converters located in the exhaust system under the vehicle. The process takes about 15 minutes per vehicle. If your catalyst is stolen, it could cost $3,000 to replace it and repair the damage.

This event is made possible by the generous support of JUST SMOGS® + Repair, a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility. Advanced reservations required. No walk-ins.

Join the Auto Club of Southern California, State Senator Tom Umberg and police departments throughout Southern California in helping to combat this theft. Bring your identification and current registration to the event.

Join the Auto Club of Southern California, State Senator Tom Umberg and police departments throughout Southern California in helping to combat this theft. Bring your identification and current registration to the event.

Here’s how AAA is trying to protect SoCal drivers from catalytic converter thefts

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Catalytic converter theft is a common problem in Southern California, and the Auto Club says it’s getting worse.
This week it’s offering to etch vehicle identification numbers onto catalytic converters to deter thefts.

https://abc7.com/video/embed/?pid=11956196

Nextdoor 2019 Neighborhood Favorite

We are proud to announce that we were selected as a 2019 Neighborhood Favorite on Nextdoor. Only 1% of all businesses are voted as a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite, and Just Smogs is one of them!

Toyota 4Runner – A Brief History

Today we’re learning about the Toyota 4Runner. It all started in 1980 when a Toyota dealership owner in Wisconsin named Jack Safro wanted the 4wd capabilities of a Toyota pickup but with an enclosed cab for the cold climate. Safro contacted @winnebagorvs to make a Fiberglass rear cab for the Toyota Hilux. Toyota agreed to the partnership and they unveiled the Trekker in 1981. They built 1500 and they all sold fast. Toyota realized there was a market for this style of vehicle so they released the Toyota 4Runner in 1984. In Japan they were sold as the Hilux Surf.

Pictured here is a 1989 N60. The last year of the first generation. The 4Runner was the first to coin the term SUV and has been a staple in the class ever since. Iseecars.com named it #5 in their most reliable cars in the US list. With its versatility and longevity it’s easy to see why the 4Runner is one of the best cars on the market to this day.

Catalytic Converter Stolen in Huntington Beach ( Toyota )

UPDATE (May 2023):
We recommend shields if there is one available for your specific vehicle:

Your best option is to install a Catalytic Converter Shield.
We install two different brands converter shields. The one pictured on the left is a CAT SHIELD manufactured by MILLERCAT. For Toyota Prius models, I believe these stainless steel MILLERCAT shields are a superior product.
MILLERCAT offers this shield in aluminum and 304 stainless steel. The stainless steel version costs $60 more than the aluminum.

CAT SECURITY is another company the offers these shields. I believe CAT SECURITY only offers their shields in aluminum. I actually installed a CAT SECURITY shield on my 2019 Toyota Tacoma after I had my converters stolen in 2022.

This Toyota Prius had it’s catalytic converter stolen recently in Huntington Beach. According to local law enforcement, the theft can take less than 90 seconds. Our customer had us install a theft security device called the CatClamp. Apparently the Prius is a major target for catalytic converter theft locally. In our experience, SUVs and trucks seem to get hit more often because of the easy underbody access.
Common targeted vehicles are: Toyota Prius, Honda Element, Honda Pilot, Toyota Sequoia, Toyota Tacoma

How do you know when your brakes are going out ?

Winter weather is right around the corner. With proper working brakes, you’ll be safer and avoid costly damage. Here is a list of common symptoms that should should be addressed by a professional:

  • Squeaking, Squealing or Grinding Noises
  • Soft or Spongy Pedal
  • Vibration When Braking
  • Brake Light Is Illuminated
  • While Braking, Car Pulls to One Side
  • Burning Smell
  • Brake Fluid Leaks

At JUST SMOGS®, our team of technicians can diagnose and repair your brakes at a competitive price. To avoid squeaking and insure repair longevity, we only install the highest quality parts.

Right now we’re offering a 15% Off Brake Special! (Through Dec 31, 2017). Please remind us of the discount at the time of write up.

Smog Check: Toyota Prius Hybrid (STAR Certified)

hybrid-smog-check-huntington-beach-prius.JPG

This 2008 Toyota Prius Hybrid passed its change-of-ownership smog check inspection today at JUST SMOGS® in Huntington Beach. Hybrid emission inspections are essentially the same as most 2000 and newer gasoline powered vehicles.

The inspections consists of a comprehensive visual inspection of the emission systems as well as an OBD computer scan.

STAR Smog Check: Airstream Sprinter Diesel

smog-check-diesel-sprinter.JPGAt JUST SMOGS® (STAR Certified), we are licensed to inspect and certified ALL makes and models for the California DMV. This fantastic Airstream motorhome passed with flying colors. These diesel Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans are an excellent fuel efficient RV option.