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Check Engine Light MIL Question

Can the MIL check be done after the smog check legally or does it have to be done in the beginning of the smog test?
Answer:

Per California's smog check inspection procedure and guidelines, (available at http://www.bar.ca.gov/80_BARResources/ftp/pdfdocs/Smog_Check_Procedures.pdf) the Check Engine Light or Malfunction Indicator Lamp inspection needs to be conducted after the emissions and visual portions of the smog check. Contrary to the guidelines we have information that State BAR Inspectors have started allowing smog check technicians who notice a customer's check engine light being on or illuminated before the smog inspection, to warn the customer that his or her vehicle will fail the smog inspection, strictly as a matter of good business and customer relations. This practice is still against state smog check guidelines, and some smog stations still choose to inspect vehicles as they are driven in to their shops, check engine light on or off. To answer your question... Legally smog technicians have an obligation to inspect the check engine light after the smog inspection has started, and after completing the emissions and visual parts of the test, with no requirement to advise the vehicle owner of the potential failure. posted by SmogTips Support

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