Author: dewok

ASE Certification: Congratulations John!

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ASE Certified Automotive Professional - Smog TechnicianCongratulations John on your recent ASE Certification. Lead smog check technician John Hernandez successfully passed the ASE A6 (Electronic Systems) and A8 (Engine Performance).

Our California licensed smog technicians continue their education and maintain the highest certifications. If you have any questions regarding the smog check program feel free to contact one of our team members at 714-596-1019. We’re looking forward to seeing you for your next smog test in Huntington Beach!

Smog Check: Check Engine Light is on?

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Will my car pass a smog check with a CHECK ENGINE LIGHT on?

No, unfortunately your vehicle will fail a smog check if the check engine light is illuminated. The industry term is Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).

The MIL is usually located somewhere on the dash. A proper functioning MIL illuminates when the vehicle is initially started. The MIL then “goes off” a few seconds later. If the MIL stays “on” the vehicle will fail the On Board Diagnostic (OBD) Functional portion of the smog inspection.

Why is the CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON?

It’s a common misconception that an illuminated MIL indicates the need for an oil change or other routine service. An MIL is triggered when the vehicle’s computer finds a problem somewhere in the system. A “trouble code” is set and the MIL is illuminated to notify the driver. Common trouble codes are: faulty gas cap, oxygen sensor, catalytic efficiency, etc. In some way fault codes that illuminate the MIL are always emission related.

Common terms and symbols for an MIL:

  • Check Engine
  • Service Engine Soon
  • A symbol outline of an Engine

The new STAR smog check program-Effective January 1, 2013

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star smog check stationWhat is a STAR Smog Station?

Some vehicles require a Smog Check at a STAR station. STAR stations must meet specified performance standards established by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). Some STAR stations are licensed to perform only tests while others are licensed to perform both tests and repairs. Continue Reading →

High Hydrocarbon (HC) / Carbon Monoxide (CO) / Nitrogen Oxide (NO) Smog Failure

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What causes high HC emissions?

Excessive HC results from ignition misfire or misfire due to excessively lean or rich air/fuel mixtures. 

  1. Engine Misfires
  2. Ignition System Failures
  3. Excessively lean air/fuel mixture
  4. Excessive EGR dilution
  5. Timing Issues
  6. Catalytic Converter
  7. Worn piston rings and cylinder walls
  8. Carbon deposits on intake valves

What causes high CO emissions?

High carbon monoxide levels are caused by anything that can cause a rich conditon.

  1. Excessive fuel pressure at the injector(s)
  2. Leaking fuel injector(s)
  3. Faulty O2 sensor(s)
  4. Defective fuel pressure regulator
  5. Defective EVAP system
  6. Plugged PCV valve or hose
  7. Catalytic converter

What causes high NO emissions?

NOx are produced from the reaction of nitrogen and oxygen gases in the air during combustion, especially at high temperatures & high pressures.

  1. Cooling system problems
  2. Fuel Mixture: excessively lean air/fuel
  3. EGR System Problems
  4. Overheating Issues
  5. Faulty O2 Sensor(s)
  6. Excess Carbon on Valves,
  7. Catalytic Converter
  8. Timing Issues
  9. Carbon deposits on intake valves

 

Star Smog Check: Porsche Turbo

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porsche star smog checkThis beautiful 2001 Porsche turbo passes it’s star smog check in Huntington Beach.

Many vehicles are require smog certification from a licensed CA Star Station. Just Smogs is one of the first smog check stations in California to be certified “Star.” Currently the inspection procedures are identical to the previous smog program.