giving up on your old reliable vehicle

giving up on your old reliable vehicle

Three Tips For Passing Smog Checks

Glen Soto

When you live in a state that focuses particularly on emissions standards, you will need to be sure that you do all that you can to pass smog check inspections. For instance, in the state of California, you must get your vehicle smog checked every 2 years in order to pass inspections and keep it street legal. If you want to make sure that your vehicle passes a smog check, read on and take advantage of these tips to increase your car's chances. 

Tip #1: If Your "Check Engine" Light Is On, Get It Looked At

The first thing to consider when you are about to get a smog check is whether or not your car's "Check Engine" light is on. Though this light is known to come on for a number of reasons, many of which are not detrimental to your vehicle, the smog check computer system will automatically fail your vehicle if this indicator is on. Before getting your car smog inspected, take your automobile to a car repair shop that can clear this engine indicator and fix the issue that made it turn on. In many vehicles, the oxygen sensor is the reason for the check engine light turning on. While this is a part that may only cost approximately $168, you might eventually pay more than $1,000 in more extensive repairs when you fail to replace this sensor in a timely manner. 

Tip #2: Take Your Car For A Drive

When you want to take your vehicle for a smog inspection, one of the best things you can do is take it for a good 20 minute drive, preferably on the freeway. Going on this lengthy drive prior to your smog inspection will ensure that your car is properly warmed up. Warming your car up will let your vehicle run at optimum levels during the smog inspection. 

Tip #3: Get Your Oil Changed

In terms of repairs to get prior to a smog check, taking your vehicle in for an oil change is a great step to take. Dirty oil in your engine can cause your vehicle to fail its smog check. During the oil check, ask the mechanic to also change the filter, top off transmission and brake fluid, and check and inflate your tires. These services are inexpensive and well worth it for the health of your vehicle and its ability to pass a smog inspection. 

Follow these tips so that your car has the best chance of passing a smog check. Contact a company like Lakeside Radiator & Auto Repair for more info.


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giving up on your old reliable vehicle

When do you call it quits on your old car? The car that you once referred to as "old reliable" might not be the reliable vehicle that it once was. You may be able to make the repairs as often as they need to be made, but think about how much you are spending on making those repairs. This blog is filled with tips that can help you decide if it is time to let go of the car that you love and replace it with something that will keep you going when you need it to get you there with no problems.

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