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Is it Illegal for Auto Repair Shop to Perform Smog Repairs?

In California, is it illegal for an auto repair shop that is not a licensed smog inspection station to perform check engine light diagnostics? Or for that matter, any smog check or emission related repairs? Thank you.

Answer:

Health and Safety Code 44032 states the following: No person shall perform, for compensation, tests or repairs of emission control devices or systems of motor vehicles required by this chapter unless the person performing the test or repair is a qualified smog check technician and the test or repair is performed at a licensed smog check station. Qualified technicians shall perform tests of emission control devices and systems in accordance with Section 44012. An often asked question is, can a regular auto repair shop diagnose my vehicle's check engine light? Legally no. Since the check engine light is part of a vehicle's emission control system, an illuminated check engine light will cause a smog check failure and will require a smog check repair certified mechanic at a smog test & repair certified auto repair center diagnose and repair the fault. posted by SmogTips Support

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