My vehicle failed a smog check for Modified Software. Now what?

So we recently ran into this with a 2015 BMW X5 M. According to the VIR: Overall Test Results: MODIFIED SOFTWARE (MODIFIED SW OBDII).

Although we complete thousands of inspections, this was the first time we encountered this particular failure type (as of January 2023). This same vehicle passed three years prior. Our customer purchased this BMW out-of-state and required a California smog check to complete the initial registration in 2020.

Our customer swore that he did not modify the OEM BMW software. So, if the vehicle had the same software as before, why is the vehicle now failing in 2023?

The answer is that the State of California changed the testing parameters of the BAR-OIS Smog Check Inspection by adding a modified software check. So for this BMW to pass a smog check in California, the software will need to be restored to an OEM-approved or CARB-approved software configuration.

Modified Software Standards (per BAR)

On July 19, 2021, a modified software check was added to the BAR-OIS Smog Check inspection. Software approved through a California Air Resources Board (CARB) Executive Order should not cause a vehicle to fail for modified software.

Vehicles identified with illegally modified software will fail the Smog Check inspection. The vehicle inspection report will show Modified Software for the overall inspection result. Once the vehicle is restored to an OEM-approved or CARB-approved software configuration, the vehicle may be retested at any licensed Smog Check station, unless otherwise directed by BAR to a Referee or STAR station. Consumers seeking to dispute inspection results may contact the Smog Check Referee by calling (800) 622-7733.

The following is a list of vehicles that may have issues with the OBD portion of the CA smog check (as of January 2023)

Gasoline and flex-fuel vehicles that are model-year 2000 and newer and diesel vehicles that are model-year 1998 and newer that have known pattern issues with the OBD test portion of an OIS inspection are provided below. Issues include, but are not limited to, no communication with the vehicle, incomplete readiness monitors, OBD test incompatibility, and false MIL illumination. In most cases, the OIS inspection is programmed to accommodate vehicles with a design anomaly. In other cases, the vehicle may require repair.

Whether you find your vehicle on this list or not and you are still having trouble passing a smog check here in Orange County, California, feel free to contact us for help: (714) 596-1019. For catalytic converter issues, please stop with your vehicle: 7722 Talbert Ave Ste B, HB, CA 92648.

Section E: Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Code Vehicles of Interest

Section F: BAR-97 EIS Vehicles of Interest

Vehicles that are model-year 1996-1999 that have a monitor readiness issue with the OBD test portion of a BAR-97 EIS inspection are provided below. In most cases, the BAR-97 EIS is programmed to accommodate vehicles with a design anomaly.

AC SERVICE SPECIAL $129*

• Recovery, Leak Check & System Recharge
• Inspect & Adjust Air Conditioning Belt
• Inspect Hoses, Fittings & Compressor

* Does not include Freon, Electrical Diagnosis or Repairs. Expires: 12/31/2022

Is your vehicle’s air conditioning no longer blowing cold air? Give us a call to schedule your AC System Performance Test: (714) 596-1019.. Our ASE certified technician will get you cooled off in not time!

These catalytic converter theft protection plates can be a strong deterrent to thieves. 

Converter thefts are on a rise across the nation. To make matters worse, converter prices have sky rocketed over the last few years.

Our ASE certified technicians have installed dozens of converter protection devices over the years. Give us a call or stop by for an installation estimate: 714-596-1019.

I was a victim of converter theft recently. A thief cut out both underbody converters from my 2019 Toyota Tacoma while it was parked in a seemingly secure parking garage. To make matters worse, the new converters were on back order for 6-8 weeks. The insurance adjuster told me that the most common vehicles target right now (May 2022) are: Toyota Tacomas, Toyota Tundras and Toyota Prius. But in my opinion, if the thief has easy access (trucks and SUVs especially), your vehicle is at risk.

Bureau of Automotive Repair Information:

Catalytic Converter Theft and the Smog Check Program

Catalytic converter thefts have increased at an alarming rate, leaving vehicle owners to deal with costly and time-consuming repairs. As a result, consumers are seeking ways to deter thieves with some taking it upon themselves to install homemade or aftermarket theft prevention devices. Unfortunately, improper installation of a theft prevention device may result in a vehicle falling out of Smog Check compliance or, worse, causing irreparable damage to the catalytic converter. Whether an automotive repair dealer (ARD) is replacing a catalytic converter, installing a theft prevention device, or performing a Smog Check on a vehicle equipped with a theft prevention device, following are steps ARDs can take to ensure proper and thorough inspections and repairs.

Converter Replacement

Replacement converters must be either an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part or an aftermarket part that has been approved by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The aftermarket converter must be installed so that the CARB Executive Order (EO) number is visible on the shell of the converter. The replacement converter must be validated as appropriate for the vehicle. EO numbers can be validated through CARB’s Aftermarket Catalytic Converter Database at www.arb.ca.gov.

When installing a replacement converter, it is imperative that the converter is installed in the original vehicle manufacturer location and configuration and the vehicle has the correct number of converters installed, unless changes are acceptable under the EO and made consistent with its provisions. This is especially important for converters that must be welded into the exhaust system. Any variances in installation can result in the vehicle failing its Smog Check.

Theft Prevention Device Installation

Any licensed ARD may install catalytic converter theft prevention devices. Theft prevention devices include steel cages, chains, cables, protective plates and shields. Regardless of the type of theft prevention device, the catalytic converter must not be modified or compromised in any way.

When installing a theft prevention device, the ARD must take care to not weld the device directly onto the converter, to ensure there is adequate visibility of the identification numbers on the catalytic converter, and to confirm there are no restrictions on required ventilation for the converter.

Smog Check Inspections

When performing a Smog Check, the licensed inspector must perform a visual inspection to ensure that the catalytic converter is present, undamaged, unmodified, and installed in the correct location. The inspector must look for the EO number and confirm that the model of aftermarket catalytic converter is approved for the vehicle. (Refer to the Smog Check Manual for additional details.) If the EO number cannot be validated, the vehicle will fail the inspection.

If a theft prevention device has been installed in such a way that the inspector cannot validate the EO number or determine that the catalytic converter is installed properly, the inspector must consult with the customer about options, including removing the theft prevention device for the inspection.

If the inspector finds that the catalytic converter has been damaged or modified to the point where the functionality of the converter is compromised, the inspector must enter “Tamper” or “Modified” into the inspection system. The inspector will need to inform the customer that the vehicle failed the inspection and the catalytic converter may need to be replaced.

If the customer has concerns about the Smog Check inspection results and would like a third party evaluation, they may contact the Smog Check Referee.

Catalytic converter theft has complicated the task of keeping vehicles Smog Check compliant for many consumers. By providing consumers with sound advice about theft prevention options and properly installing theft prevention devices, ARD’s can help consumers prevent catalytic converter theft. By following catalytic converter installation specifications and conducting comprehensive Smog Checks, ARDs can ensure vehicles are safe and Smog Check compliant.

Post repairs we usually complete drive cycles to confirm accurate repairs and/or to complete a smog certification for our customers. We generally approach drive cycles similarly for domestic and Japanese vehicles. We begin with a cold start followed by an idle warm up (10-15 mins with AC off). Then drive steady on the way to the highway or PCH. We do our best to maintain 55 mph steady for as long as possible. If everything is working correctly, this will usually complete the drive cycle. Some vehicles are a bit more stubborn and require manufacturer specific procedures. Below is a detailed factory drive cycle for a Honda.

COLD START: Begin from Cold Start, and ignition in OFF position for at least 1 hour

• Fuel tank is between 1/4 and 3/4 full
• Engine coolant temperature must be below 122°F and within 11°F of the ambient air temperature
• Do not leave the key on prior to the cold start or the heated oxygen sensor diagnostic may not run

IDLE TIME: Run your Honda’s engine (do not drive) for 2 1/2 minutes with the air conditioner on and rear defroster on. During this period the ECU will be running the Oxygen Sensor Heater self-test, Air Injection System Passive Air test, EVAP Purge “No Flow” test, Misfire Detection.

ACCELERATE: Turn off the air conditioner and rear defroster and begin driving
As soon as possible apply half throttle until 55mph is reached. The ECU will now run self-tests on the Misfire Detection, Fuel Trim, and EVAP Purge Flow

HOLD STEADY: Now hold your vehicle speed steady at 55mph for three minutesDuring this time the Oxygen Sensor O2 response, Air Intrusive (AIS System), EGR Flow, Purge Valve, Misfire Detection, and Fuel Trim diagnostics will be performed

DECELERATE: During this step you want to slowly let off the accelerator pedal. Do not brake or shift your Honda in order to slow down. It is important to let the vehicle coast along gradually slowing down to 20 mph. The ECU will once again self-test the EGR System, EVAP Purge System and Long Term Fuel Trims.

ACCELERATE: Go ahead and accelerate again at 3/4 throttle until 55-60mph is reached. This will perform the same self tests as during the first acceleration step.

HOLD STEADY: Hold steady speed once again. This time at 55mph for five minutes. During this time, in addition to running the self-tests as during the first HOLD STEADY step, the ECU will perform the catalyst monitor diagnostics. If the catalyst (Catalytic Converter) is marginal or the battery has been disconnected, it may take 5 complete driving cycles to determine the state of the catalyst,or in order to Complete the CAT Monitor.

DECELERATE: This will perform the same diagnostics as in the first Deceleration. Remember not to press your Honda’s brake or shift gears during deceleration.
If all systems and sensors are working properly on your Honda, this should complete the drive cycle. To ensure all monitors are complete use a scan tool to view the monitors. You may want to complete the drive cycle 2-3 times.

If you are unable to complete your drive cycle or the check engine light (MIL) illuminates, feel free to give us a call to schedule our drive cycle/diagnostic service: (714) 596-1019.

Catalytic converter theft is on the rise again in Orange County. A couple of years ago, a friend of mine had the catalytic converter stolen from her Honda Element twice in the same year. Soon after that, someone stole the converter from our company box truck in Huntington Beach. Shortly after, we seldom received calls in regards to stolen converters. I thought that thefts would keep decreasing because law enforcement cracked down on the fraudulent resale industry. Unfortunately, since COVID, it seems like it’s worse than ever before.

Catalytic converter theft facts

Top catalytic converter thefts by state

1. California
2. Texas
3. Minnesota
4. North Carolina
5. Illinois

• According to local law enforcement, the theft can take less than 90 seconds
• Catalytic converters are vulnerable because they’re quick and easy to remove
• Thieves target converters because they contain valuable precious metals

So what can you do to prevent catalytic converter theft?

1) Etch your license plate number onto your catalytic converter. I cannot say that this will prevent a thief from stealing a converter. Perhaps if he/she notices the etching in the act, they might leave it and move on.

2) Park your vehicle in a secured garage (which is not always possible) or well lit parking space. This isn’t a guaranteed way to prevent theft either. One of our customers from Costa Mesa had her converter stolen in the middle of the day as her vehicle was sitting in a parking lot. I few of our customers have told us that their converters were stolen while shopping at the Westminster mall.

3) Install a catalytic converter theft security device.

Cat Security™

We really like the design and execution of the protection device made by cat security™. Unfortunately there is a limited range of vehicles in their product applications. The good news is that they are making over one more applications over the next year.

CatClamp®

Our customer had us install this 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

My catalytic converter was stolen, now what?

Due to the high cost of most catalytic converters, the best course of action is to file a claim with your insurance. If your insurance won’t cover the cost of replacement, we recommend exploring a replacement aftermarket catalytic converter.

In California, aftermarket converters must be an exact match to a vehicle’s year, make, model, engine size and engine family to be considered legal. Most dealerships will not install aftermarket parts. Therefore an experienced independent installer should be chosen. Although these California aftermarket converter regulations have been in place for many years, we still regularly find improper installations on many vehicles during our inspection process. So if you can’t make it to JUST SMOGS® for your converter replacement, either chose another professional installer and/or visit this converter post for more information. It’s also worth mentioning that if a quote is required for an aftermarket converter, we usually need to see the vehicle in person so we can identify the exact part match.

If your converter replacement is covered by insurance, we recommend going with an OEM (factory) converter. We can provide a free estimate without having the vehicle at our shop. We will provide the exact same parts and installation as the dealership, but at a lower cost.

Give us a call: 714-596-1019 or stop by 7722 Talbert Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92648.

The landlord is asphalt paving the lot on July 17, 2021