Catalytic Converter Stolen in Huntington Beach ( Toyota )

Posted on July 5, 2018 by dewok

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 ?

Posted on September 28, 2017 by dewok

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.

Toyota Camry Failed Smog : Not Ready : No Check Engine Light

Posted on January 4, 2017 by dewok

Our customer’s 1999 Toyota Camry CE 2.2L failed the biennial smog check inspection (category: OBD System Checks for being “Not Ready“). In most situations driving the vehicle for a week or two (streets & highway) will allow the vehicle to complete it’s self tests (readiness monitors) and become “Ready” so that it will pass the emission inspection.

Unfortunately, our customer drove almost 500 miles and still his Toyota was Not Ready for the following three monitors: Catalyst, Oxygen Sensor & Oxygen Sensor Heater.

He asked us to diagnose the problem. Although there was no check engine light illuminated, there as a pending diagnostic trouble code (DTC) stored in the vehicles computer: DTC P1155. P1155 is a manufacturer specific code relating to the Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor Heater Circuit.

Our technician diagnosed the air/fuel sensor and confirmed an open heater circuit. We replaced the a new Denso air/fuel sensor, cleared the fault code, and drove the vehicle.

In less than 20 miles of our drive cycle all three incomplete monitors (Catalyst, Oxygen Sensor & Oxygen Sensor Heater) became “Ready”. We re-tested the Camry and it passed.

Although in most “Not Ready” failed smog check situations, a vehicle can be driven to become “Ready” and pass a California smog inspection, repairs are sometimes necessary.

O2 Sensor Monitor Not Ready 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Posted on December 5, 2016 by MasterTech

If your 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid fails to pass the California emissions test because of an incomplete oxygen sensor (air/fuel) monitor, your Toyota Highlander Hybrid may be subject to a recall.

Affected vehicles will require a software update to correct an issue that prevents the vehicle’s on board diagnostic computer from running the O2 sensor monitor to completion. Per Toyota Special Service Campaign FOP and TSB #0042-15, this service will be performed on affected vehicles at no charge to the consumer.

Your Toyota dealer will identify affected vehicles based on manufacture date, software calibration, etc. When contacting your Toyota dealer, please reference TSB #0042-15.

1996 to 2002 Toyota OBD II Catalyst Monitor Readiness Drive Patterns

Posted on May 17, 2016 by MasterTech

The catalyst monitor on many Toyota vehicles can be difficult to complete. That’s why it’s important to follow the Toyota recommended drive cycle after performing actions that are known to clear your Toyota’s computer memory.

Remember, all on-board diagnostic monitors are cleared when the battery is disconnected, or when the powertrain control module (PCM) is cleared with a scan tool.

CATALYST MONITOR DRIVE CYCLE INSTRUCTIONS

Do not turn off the ignition switch during the test procedure.
Allow the vehicle to run at idle until warmed up.
Drive at a steady speed between 40 and 70 MPH for 10 minutes. It’s a good idea to stay in the middle of this range, so 55 MPH is optimal.
It may take several attempts and warm up cycles to complete the drive cycle.

1996 to 2002 Toyota OBD II Monitor Readiness Drive Patterns

Smog Check: Toyota Prius Hybrid (STAR Certified)

Posted on April 22, 2015 by dewok

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.

Smog Check OBD II (OBD 2) : What are Readiness Monitors ?

Posted on April 22, 2014 by dewok

OBD II, “CHECK-ENGINE” LIGHTS, and READINESS MONITORS..WHAT ARE THEY?

OBD II is a system that has been installed in most 1996 and later cars and light trucks, intended to inform the driver of problems in the components that control the engine and transmission. The primary reason OBD II was invented is to reduce smog emissions caused by malfunctions, but it is also valuable as an alert to the driver that something is wrong…something that can affect gas mileage and drivability, or actually cause further damage to the vehicle.

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