CAP Amendment 2020

The Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) has been amended as of September 1 2020.

New Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) regulations relating to Repair Assistance Program have been adopted that amend California Code of Regulations sections 3394.3, 3394.4, and 3394.6 by:

·         Increasing the state’s contribution toward emissions-related repairs from a maximum of $500 to either $900 or $1,200, depending on vehicle model year. All repairs over $500 must be preapproved by CAP.

·         Modifying the consumer copay from the total cost of testing and diagnosis of the emissions-related failure to a minimum of 20% of the total cost of diagnosis and repair of the emissions-related failure.

·         Establishing a flat fee for CAP diagnosis of 1.5 hours times the posted hourly labor rate for repairs. The diagnosis includes a pre-repair baseline inspection. An after-repair inspection is to be performed at no additional charge.

·         Allowing participation in CAP of a vehicle with vehicle registration expired up to 365 days.

·         Eliminating eligibility requirements pertaining to prior registration lapses.

A copy of the adopted regulation is attached.  For updated CAP materials and information, please see the links below or visit www.bar.ca.gov.

·         Repair Assistance Operations Manual

·         Consumer Assistance Program Application

·         Frequently Asked Questions

·         Repair Notification/Invoice Form

Smog Check: Not Ready – Readiness Monitors

This Jeep wasn’t driven during the Covid lock down and as a result the battery died. As many of you now know, a dead battery = a failed smog check. To pass, a Drive Cycle must be successfully completed prior to a smog check. Our team tested and replaced the battery, completed a drive cycle and the Jeep pass it’s smog check!

Open during Covid-19

As a California essential business, we have remained open during these difficult times. We have adjusted our schedule and staffing. Please call 714-596-1019 or schedule an appointment online to ensure the best service possible.

We have taken a number of precautionary measures to protect you and our staff. If you currently do not feel comfortable coming in for service, we recommend paying your DMV fees online and visiting us when you’re ready. We will be here for you when this passes.

Wishing you and your loved ones the best.

Do I need to Smog Check ?

California DMV requires a smog check for the following reasons:

  • Biennial Inspection
    The most common reasons a vehicle is required to be smog certified is simply to comply with California biennial (every other year) smog check regulations. Once a gasoline vehicle is older that 8 years, the DMV requires a passing smog check every other year. So for example in 2021, vehicle model years 2013 and older will require a smog check. Vehicle model years 1975 and older are exempt from inspection.
    Diesel vehicles do not get the 8 year waiver. All 1998 and newer diesel vehicles under 14,000 GVWR are required to be inspected every other year.
  • Transfer of Ownership
    A smog check certification is required when a vehicle is 6 model years or older gets sold in California. The seller of the vehicle is required to provide a passing smog check certificate (within 90 days) upon time of sale.
  • Out of State Transfer
    When a vehicle is brought into California from another state, a smog check is required regardless of how new the vehicle is. 1975 and older gasoline vehicles and 1997 and older diesel vehicles are exempt.
  • Salvage Title
    California can require a smog check and brake-and-lamp inspection if a vehicle becomes titled salvaged.