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My Chevy Cavalier failed the CA smog test. What should I fix?

I lost the paperwork they gave me after my 1996 Chevy Cavalier failed the smog check. Are there some general things we can check before we take the car to a smog check mechanic?
Answer:

Truth is there are so many emission problems a vehicle can fail the smog check for that it would be impossible to suggest any particular component to look into. Having the Vehicle Inspection Report which the smog station gave you at the time your Chevy Cavalier failed the emissions test is very important if you plan on making repairs yourself or having a non-smog check repair technician perform repairs. Mind you, the State does not allow regular mechanics to inspect, diagnose, or perform smog check repairs. Also, the VIR document needs to be interpreted by a trained smog check technician, and even than, the smog technician will need to conduct a hands-on diagnosis prior to suggesting specific smog related repairs. posted by SmogTips Support

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