A failed smog check isn't the end of the world, and it usually isn't a catalytic converter. A step-by-step plan.
You took your car in for its smog check and it failed. Now you're holding a report full of numbers and abbreviations, and somebody may have already mentioned the words "catalytic converter." Take a breath. Most failed smog checks are fixable, and many are far cheaper than people fear.
The vehicle inspection report shows why the car failed. Common categories include:
Bring that report with you to the repair shop. It tells a good technician exactly where to start.
This is where most people lose money. A parts-store code read might say "oxygen sensor" or "catalyst efficiency," and it's tempting to just replace that part. But codes point to a system, not a failed part. One of our customers came in with a parts-store printout blaming his O2 sensor. Arthur popped the hood and found a hose that wasn't connected, in less than a minute. See engine diagnostics.
Sometimes, yes. But converters rarely just wear out on their own. They usually die because something upstream, a misfire, oil burning or a rich condition, overheated or contaminated them. One customer was sure his '99 Nissan Frontier needed a new converter. Arthur's diagnostic showed it needed an O2 sensor. If a converter truly is bad, California requires a CARB-approved replacement for your vehicle, and the root cause has to be fixed or the new one will fail too. More on our exhaust and catalytic converter page.
After repairs, especially ones that involve disconnecting the battery or clearing codes, the car's readiness monitors need time to run their self-tests. That usually means several days of normal driving, a mix of city and freeway. One of our customers passed after Arthur had him drive the recommended miles to reset the emissions computer before the retest. A good shop will tell you when the car is ready.
At a test-and-repair station like ours, the retest happens in the same place as the repair. That saves you a trip and keeps everyone on the same page.
California's Bureau of Automotive Repair runs the Consumer Assistance Program, which can help eligible owners with emissions repairs or retiring a vehicle. Eligibility rules apply, so check the BAR website and ask us.
Don't give up on an older car. One customer's 1996 Camry had a hard time elsewhere, and she wrote that Arthur "worked so hard to get my car to pass." It did.
We diagnose, repair and retest at 1323 E Walnut St #2 in Pasadena. See failed smog repair or call (626) 449-6252.
Smog checks, failed smog repair, check engine diagnostics and complete auto repair on E Walnut St. Honest answers and fair prices.