Smog Check in Compton CA | Official California Smog Inspection
Smog Certification
Streamlined.
Experience the standard in California emissions testing. We provide rapid, BAR-certified smog inspections for renewals, title transfers, and out-of-state registrations.
The Standard in Emissions Testing
State Certified. Authorized STAR station meeting the highest BAR performance standards for all renewals.
DMV Data Link. Results are transmitted to DMV servers instantly for immediate online registration.
Fast Diagnostics. Rapid OBD-II testing for 2000+ vehicles ensures you're in and out in under 20 minutes.
Full Coverage. Certified for Hybrids, Heavy-Duty Diesels, SUVs, and Gross Polluters alike.
Change of Ownership. Specialized smog certifications required for buying or selling vehicles in California.
Out-of-State. Mandatory emissions verification for all vehicles being registered in CA for the first time.
Cert Validity. Your smog certificate remains valid for 90 days after the inspection date.
Failed Smog? If you don't pass, we provide a detailed report and specialized repair solutions.
State Certified. Authorized STAR station meeting the highest BAR performance standards for all renewals.
DMV Data Link. Results are transmitted to DMV servers instantly for immediate online registration.
Fast Diagnostics. Rapid OBD-II testing for 2000+ vehicles ensures you're in and out in under 20 minutes.
Full Coverage. Certified for Hybrids, Heavy-Duty Diesels, SUVs, and Gross Polluters alike.
Change of Ownership. Specialized smog certifications required for buying or selling vehicles in California.
Out-of-State. Mandatory emissions verification for all vehicles being registered in CA for the first time.
Cert Validity. Your smog certificate remains valid for 90 days after the inspection date.
Failed Smog? If you don't pass, we provide a detailed report and specialized repair solutions.
When do you need a Smog Check?
California law requires most vehicles to undergo a smog inspection every two years. However, you may also need a certificate for:
- Title Transfers: Required for vehicles older than 4 model years.
- Out-of-State: Mandatory for all initial CA registrations.
- Notice Requirements: If your DMV notice specifies a STAR station.
The Inspection Checklist
To ensure a smooth visit, please verify the following:
- No active Check Engine Light
- Vehicle is at operating temperature
- DMV renewal notice is present (optional)
Certification Failed?
If your vehicle doesn't pass, we provide a detailed diagnostic report. ImportWorx offers specialized emissions repair to get you compliant.
Visit the Station
Located on Rosecrans Ave, our facility is equipped with the latest BAR-certified OIS and Dyno testing hardware.
Smog Check & Emissions FAQ
Essential information for California drivers, from basics to BAR-certified technicals.
A Smog Check is a mandatory inspection required by the State of California to ensure your vehicle's emissions system is functioning correctly. Most vehicles need this for registration renewal to help reduce air pollution.
In California, most gas-powered vehicles over 8 years old must undergo a smog inspection every two years (biennial). It is also required when selling a vehicle or registering one from out-of-state.
While not strictly required, bringing your DMV Renewal Notice helps speed up the process. We use the barcode to instantly sync your data with the State's database.
No. Fully electric vehicles are exempt. However, hybrid vehicles are NOT exempt and must be tested at a licensed station like ImportWorx.
A STAR station meets higher performance standards set by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). Some DMV notices specifically require you to visit a STAR station to ensure testing integrity.
No. An illuminated Check Engine Light is an automatic failure in California. If your light is on, we recommend our diagnostic service before testing.
Modern cars (2000+) use internal monitors to track emissions. If you recently cleared codes or replaced a battery, these monitors may be "Not Ready," which will result in a test refusal.
OIS is a software-based test for 2000+ vehicles. Older cars (1976-1999) require a Dyno test, a "treadmill" for your car to measure tailpipe output under load. We do both.
As of 2021, the BAR checks for non-approved software calibrations. If your ECU tune does not have a CARB Executive Order (EO) number, your vehicle will fail the software verification check.
The system performs a "digital handshake," comparing your CVN (Calibration Verification Number) against the manufacturer's original data. Any discrepancy triggers a failure for illegal tampering.
Ready for Registration?
Skip the stress of DMV renewals. Get your BAR-certified smog inspection at Compton's trusted import specialists.
(310) 627-9777
1821 Rosecrans Ave, Compton, CA
Mon–Fri: 8am-5pm | Sat: 8am-1pm
Instant DMV Electronic Filing Included