If you live in a sizeable metropolitan area, a part of your registration process probably involves a smog check. If you don't pass the test, you can't legally drive your car. However, passing a smog test is not always as simple as it sounds, especially if you have an older car, but you can pass. Learn some steps you can take to improve the likelihood of your older vehicle passing the smog test.
Hit the Highway
If you have an older car that you don't drive much, make sure you drive the vehicle on the highway several times before you take it in for testing. Every vehicle as a catalytic converter, which is designed to burn any excess gas or oil that may fall on the surface inside. However, when a car sits for a long time, doesn't travel at high speeds, or is only driven short distances, the converter doesn't get hot enough.
Consequently, the converter can't burn off the excess gas and oil. If you go in for a smog test, you will fail if the converter has not been able to do its job. Driving on the highway several times before you take the test should allow the converter to heat up so that you can successfully pass your smog test.
Maintain Tire Air Pressure
You need to keep your tires properly inflated. Not only is proper inflation essential to protect your tires and ensure that your brakes function correctly, but adequate inflation can also help you pass the smog test. For older vehicles, it's not uncommon for inspectors to perform a dynamometer test. With this test, your car is placed on a set of mechanical rollers that are designed to simulate your car moving.
If your tires are underinflated, your engine will have to work harder with each evaluation to make up for the reduced tire pressure. The increased effort on the part of your engine could spell trouble for your smog test, as it could cause you to fail. However, when the tires are properly inflated, you don't have to worry about the engine working harder. Look at your manual to find out the right PSI rating for your car.
With a little TLC, you can get your older vehicle smog test ready reasonably easily. If you experience any problems that lead to you failing your test, a certified smog inspector will be able to tell you what the issue is so that you can correct it. For more information and to schedule a test, visit sites such as http://www.westcoastsmogtest.com.
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