Smog Check FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common smog check questions below. At Corona Express Smog, we want every driver to feel confident and informed before their smog check. If you have a question not listed here, call us at (951) 736-6095.
What Is a Smog Check?
A smog check is a vehicle emissions inspection required by the State of California. During a smog check, a certified technician connects your vehicle to diagnostic equipment that measures tailpipe emissions and checks the onboard diagnostic system. If your vehicle meets emissions standards, you pass the smog check and receive a certificate transmitted electronically to the California DMV.
When Do I Need a Smog Check?
You need a smog check in California when you renew your vehicle registration (every other year for most vehicles), when you sell or transfer ownership of a vehicle, and when you register an out-of-state vehicle. Your DMV renewal notice will state whether a smog check is required. New vehicles are exempt from a smog check for the first eight model years.
How Much Does a Smog Check Cost?
At Corona Express Smog, a regular smog check costs just $36.75 when you use our smog coupon for 2000-and-newer gasoline vehicles. The state-mandated $8.25 certificate fee is additional and applies to all smog check stations in California. Diesel vehicles and older models may have different smog check pricing.
How Long Does a Smog Check Take?
A typical smog check at Corona Express Smog takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. Walk-ins are welcome, and there is usually little to no wait. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before closing to ensure we can complete your smog check the same day.
What Is a STAR Smog Check Station?
A STAR station is a smog check facility certified by the Bureau of Automotive Repair for meeting higher performance standards. If your DMV notice says “STAR directed,” you must get your smog check at a STAR station like Corona Express Smog.
What Should I Bring to My Smog Check?
Bring your vehicle registration card or DMV renewal notice to your smog check. If you have a smog coupon, show it on your phone or bring a printout. We accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards.
What Happens if My Vehicle Fails the Smog Check?
If your vehicle fails the smog check, our technician will give you a detailed report explaining which components failed. As a test-only station, we do not perform repairs, but we can recommend trusted repair shops nearby. California also offers the Consumer Assistance Program that may help cover smog check repair costs.
Do I Need an Appointment for a Smog Check?
No appointment is needed for a smog check at Corona Express Smog. We are a walk-in smog check station open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Can I Get a Smog Check for a Diesel Vehicle?
Yes, Corona Express Smog performs smog checks on diesel vehicles. Diesel smog checks involve a different testing procedure and may have different pricing. Call us at (951) 736-6095 for current diesel smog check pricing.
Visit Corona Express Smog for Your Smog Check
Ready for your smog check? Visit us at 625 W 6th St, Corona, CA 92882. Get our discount smog coupon and save. Contact us or get directions to our location.
