Superior Auto Clinic
What is the Difference between Emissions Testing and a Smog Check?
Emissions Testing vs. Smog Check
State and local mandated emissions testing meets the EPA Tier 2 standard, while smog testing meets California's higher standard for EPA Tier 3.
How Do I Know If I Need a Smog Test?
Your DMV registration renewal notice will indicate "Smog Check Required" if your vehicle needs a smog check.
When Is a Smog Check Required?
- If you are selling a car or truck that is more than four years old
- When you register an out-of-state vehicle for the first time in California, you will need a smog check
- Every other year for vehicles that are more than six years old
When Is a Smog Check Not Required?
- 100% electric-powered vehicles do not need a smog check
- Motorcycles do not need a smog check
- Got a classic car? Vehicles that are model-year 1975 and older do not require a smog check
- Vehicles six model years and newer do not require a biennial Smog check
- Selling your car? Cars that are four model years and newer do not require a change-of-ownership Smog check
- Diesel-powered trucks that are model year 1997 and older
- Diesel-powered trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 14,000 pounds
Discover More About Exhaust Repair Services At Superior Auto Clinic in North Hollywood
Discover more about Smog Check, Testing & Repair
OUR REVIEWS
Sonia Ramirez, 09/17/2025I came to Superior Auto Clinic for a second opinion after spending over $4,000 at another shop that left my car in worse condition than before. I was incredibly stressed and unsure who to trust at this point. From the moment I arrived, the team at Superior was incredibly professional and thorough. They didn’t rush the process—they took their time diagnosing everything and explained every issue in detail. They even found serious mechanical and electrical problems missed by the previous shop, including unsafe components that made the car dangerous to drive. Their diagnostics gave me clarity, peace of mind, and a path forward. If you’re looking for a trustworthy mechanic that truly knows what they’re doing and treats customers with transparency and respect, I highly recommend Superior Auto Clinic. Thank you to the whole crew at Superior Auto Clinic — I finally feel like I found a mechanic I can trust.
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