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1996 Ford Explorer V6 failed smog test and has low cylinder compression.

My Ford Explorer failed smog test, oxygen sensors, and has low compression on 3 cylinders. It has 210K miles. I've had my Explorer checked at 2 different stations and have paid renewal fees but car won't pass smog due to several readings including 3 cylinders on right side with compression of 75 and one of 100. Left side is 125 all. Can't afford other car nor can pay estimated repair cost of $1650 to remove cylinder heads. Mechanic says that the SUV still might not pass smog.
Answer:

Low cylinder compression on your Ford Explorer will absolutely cause it to fail the smog test. There is not much you can do at this point except to repair the cylinder heads if that's where the compression leak is coming from. Remember low compression can also be due burned valve/s. In this case it doesn't matter much though because either way your Ford's engine will need top-end work; the heads will have to be removed, possibly resurfaced, and the head gaskets replaced. You can try applying to California's CAP (Consumer Assistance Program) to pay for getting your Ford Explorer fixed, but more then likely they will reject to pay for repairs (mechanical part) once they find out it failed the smog check because of engine compression; which is technically not an engine emissions fault, but rather an engine mechanical fault. CAP only pays (up to $500) for emissions related repairs specifically. Once you repair the compression problem and your Ford still fails the smog check, CAP will pay for the emissions repairs and get your Ford to pass the smog inspection. posted by SmogTips Support

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