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Allen Henry
You may have gotten a notice from the state to take your care to a STAR smog test or test and repair station and wondered what it meant. However, there is no reason for concern as this notice doesn't necessarily indicate anything seriously wrong with your car. If you are notified to take your car to this type of station, then you may not be able to take your car your favorite mechanic for a smog test unless he or she is STAR certified.
This blog discusses STAR certified smog stations, which cars the state refers to them, and what happens if you fail the test.
What Does STAR Certified Mean?
STAR certified technicians are held to a higher standard and are monitored more closely than regular smog stations. STAR stations can be either test only or test and repair stations. Test only stations cannot perform repairs. So if your car fails at a test only station, you will need to visit another mechanic for repairs. STAR test and repair stations may also participate in the state's consumer assistance program.
What Cars Require a STAR Certified Smog Test?
Most people referred to a STAR station fall into three categories. First, if your car has failed an inspection before, then you will likely receive a referral to a STAR station. Second, certain models that are known to be high polluters or older cars are also more likely to get a referral. Third, the state will also randomly select a small sample from all other cars.
What Happens If a Car Fails a STAR Certified Smog Test?
There are no special requirements when you fail a STAR certified smog test versus a regular smog test. You must have your car repaired and get a retake. You can get your car repaired anywhere you want, including at a STAR test and repair station. STAR test and repair stations are held to a very high standard and will help make sure your car passes. If you have applied for the state's consumer assistance program, then you must take your car to a STAR station to receive financial assistance for the repair.
Being referred to a STAR certified station doesn't mean your car has been singled out or that there is a problem. If your DMV notice doesn't mention you need a STAR certified smog test, then you can take it to any certified smog technician, including one that is STAR certified. For more information about STAR smog certifications, contact the DMV or a STAR certified technician or visit a site like https://www.westcoastsmogtest.com/.