Help, My Car Failed a Smog Check. (High HC Failure)

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Solving Exhaust Gas Failures: High HC

Failure to achieve a pass on HC emissions is usually due to an excessively high ratio of fuel to air, thus causing high levels of unburned HCs. Start by checking the following in the order suggested here.

1: Spark plugs & wires
2: Timing spark/advance
3: Vacuum leaks
4: Other ignition problems
5: 02 Sensor
6: Evaporative fuel system

Plus…Fuel Injection system, Air/fuel mixture adjustment, PCV system, Catalytic converter(s), Throttle position sensor, MAP sensor, MAF sensor, Other sensors/switches, Computer PROM, Internal engine repair, Other repairs/unknown.

 

Auto Creamery at JUST SMOGS® in Huntington Beach

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Auto Creamery is Awesome!

Auto-Creamery-Smog-Check-HB.jpgThe Auto Creamery stops by with delicious frozen treats!  Check out their website for more info. Thanks Brandon!

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 Technician Wanted

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JUST SMOGS - Smog Check CouponWe have an opening for a smog check technician.

  • Full or part time available
  • No experience needed
  • Must have a “STAR” qualified smog technician license

Please contact Danny at 714-596-1019 for more information.

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 →