Join the community and post your question. Use our Ask-A-Tech for free now! ASE experts standing by.

Forum > Consumer Assistance > Question

When buying a used car, is it a bad sign if the Car Fax say it didn't pass a smog test?

We are looking at a 2004 Toyota Highlander with only 83,800 miles. The Car Fax mentions that it did not pass emissions inspection this past Dec. 2011. It also lists it passing on the same day it failed. Is this a bad sign to have smog check problems on a car with that low mileage. Could it be a sign of a serious issue? We haven't asked the dealer about a recent smog check yet. If it passes with no problem this time around, is that a great sign? Thanks!!
Answer:

It is not necessary a bad sign that a vehicle with 83,800 miles failed the smog test. Most emission components have a 60-80 thousand mile service life. So long as the fault causing the previous smog check failure was not severe, you should have no worries. Being that this Toyota highlander passed the smog check the same day it failed we have to assume the fault and repair were non serious. posted by SmogTips Support

Related questions and answers you might find useful:

How Do I Get a Smog Check Waiver? by Margaret

Do I Need a Smog Check This Year? by Joy

Mini Cooper DMV Registration Due in 5 Day Won't Pass Smog by anne

2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with K&N Air Filter by David

1995 BMW M3 Gross Polluter High HC & NO @ 15MPH by Jared

View SmogTips.com in: Desktop / Mobile