Car Automotive

If your car does not pass its required smog test, you must repair your car so that it will pass.  Some options to help with the cost of the repair are:

1)      Repair Assistance program

2)      Vehicle retirement program

3)      Repair cost waiver

Repair Assistance:  This option allows qualified motorists to receive up to $500.00 in emissions-related repairs from the state.  All participants must take their vehicles to Smog Check repair stations specifically authorized by the state to perform repair assistance services.Through the repair assistance program, you can get up to $500 in emissions related repairs if you qualify.  To qualify, your household income cannot be more than 185% of the Federal Poverty guidelines.

Income-Eligible – Motorists whose household income is at or below 185% of the federal poverty guidelines qualify for repair assistance.  For example, a family of four whose income does not exceed $2,629 per month, or $31,543 per year, would qualify for repair assistance.  Qualified consumers must pay the $20 towards diagnosis and/or emission-related repairs before the state makes it contribution of up to $500.

Test-Only State Referral – Certain vehicles are required to have their Smog Check inspections at stations that perform only tests, and no repairs.  This requirement is indicated on the vehicle’s DMV registration renewal notice.  Motorists whose vehicles fall under these criteria also qualify for repair assistance.  Qualified consumers must pay the first $100 towards diagnosis and/or emissions-related repairs before the state makes it contribution of up to $500.  (Note:  test-only referrals that qualify should apply for Income Eligible assistance.)

Vehicle Retirement: This option is available to motorists who want to voluntarily retire their vehicles to the state rather than repair them.  Eligible consumers can receive $1,000 in exchange for their vehicles.  Vehicle are retired at one of the state’ authorized dismantlers.

Repair Cost Waiver: This option is available to motorists who either do not qualify for repair assistance or choose not to retire their vehicles.  It allows a vehicle to be registered without passing its Smog Check inspection by providing a temporary (two-year) extension of time to complete all emissions-related repairs.  To qualify, at least $450 is emissions-related repairs must be made to the vehicle at a licensed Smog Check station.  Motorists may only use the waiver once during ownership of the vehicle.

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