If you fail smog the smog test one time (buy, inspector)

[Yosemitesam52]

The Test Only Station allows for a retest, but what if I want to take it to a completely different test station, is that allowed? Or am I required to return to the original station for retest?


I had two Catalytic Convertors installed this past March for $2500.00 after market, with it came a passed smog test. I know I should have returned to where I had the catalytic convertors installed, but they did not say to bring it back when you need your smog test, that it will pass now. I told them I don't need it to pass smog now, I need it in 9 months, but want to get the work done now so that when I am due, i can get the smog certificate, i will be broke in 9 months.



So it did not pass the initial check, the inspector says they are tampered with catalytic convertors, that after you get the good parts on they can retest for free. Is it possible do you if know if I can just take it to my mechanic now so he can get it passed at his smog station?

[2sleepy]

Originally Posted by Yosemitesam52

The Test Only Station allows for a retest, but what if I want to take it to a completely different test station, is that allowed? Or am I required to return to the original station for retest?


I had two Catalytic Convertors installed this past March for $2500.00 after market, with it came a passed smog test. I know I should have returned to where I had the catalytic convertors installed, but they did not say to bring it back when you need your smog test, that it will pass now. I told them I don't need it to pass smog now, I need it in 9 months, but want to get the work done now so that when I am due, i can get the smog certificate, i will be broke in 9 months.



So it did not pass the initial check, the inspector says they are tampered with catalytic convertors, that after you get the good parts on they can retest for free. Is it possible do you if know if I can just take it to my mechanic now so he can get it passed at his smog station?

My son is a certified auto tech and has a smog license. He said the problem is that California has issued allowable parts numbers for cats and the one you buy has to match the number. After market ones usually don't. If you can find a smog tech who doesn't physically check the number and if it's installed correctly it will probably pass but they can lose their license and get fined for doing that. Here's the database they are supposed to check to see if you have the right catalytic converter
https://ssl.arb.ca.gov/AftermarketParts/catalysts

If yours doesn't match you should get a refund from whoever sold you those and call BAR https://www.bar.ca.gov/Contact_Us

[behindthescreen]

Originally Posted by Yosemitesam52

The Test Only Station allows for a retest, but what if I want to take it to a completely different test station, is that allowed? Or am I required to return to the original station for retest?


I had two Catalytic Convertors installed this past March for $2500.00 after market, with it came a passed smog test. I know I should have returned to where I had the catalytic convertors installed, but they did not say to bring it back when you need your smog test, that it will pass now. I told them I don't need it to pass smog now, I need it in 9 months, but want to get the work done now so that when I am due, i can get the smog certificate, i will be broke in 9 months.


So it did not pass the initial check, the inspector says they are tampered with catalytic convertors, that after you get the good parts on they can retest for free. Is it possible do you if know if I can just take it to my mechanic now so he can get it passed at his smog station?

I did and they passed it. Had to repay the fee though.

P.s, never say anything about cat converters to smog test people.