I just passed CA smog with very good numbers. But the test was different. Here is the key data:



Thing is, they didn't spin the wheels on the dynometer and they didn't give me any readings for NOx. I heard them rev the car up to what sounded like 1500 rpm and 2500 rpm, but not in gear.

I'm glad the numbers it shows are this good. I changed the timing belt, I set the valve lash to spec, changed the oil, oil filter, air filter, and gave it spec spark plugs. Drove in 25/30 miles to warm it up solid and then to the testing center.

Anyway, I called back to double check that I was not missing a data sheet. They said that's all I'll need. That I pass and I can send in my info.

What's up with that?

Anyone else have that experience?

 

CA has a few changes to the SMOG test, main one is '00 and newer car(but does not apply to existing generations/known 'polluter' vehicles) no longer get the rollers nor a two step idle test. Simply the tech walks up to the car with his scanner, checks for codes, checks the monitors, gives it a quick once over and you are done.

CARB is now relying on the OBDII to squawk if there is a problem with the vehicle.
OBDII system happy, CARB is happy and you get your sticker without any actual emissions testing.

Older 'high emission profile' vehicles will still get the roller/5gas test.

Just smogged an '02 Subaru RS, went through all the hoops to make sure it would burn clean. When the tech simply plugged in a scanner to check for codes I was floored. No codes, saw all emissions equipment intact,*signs paper* 'have a nice day'.

Personally I think its bullshit. There are plenty of ways to circumvent certain codes even with early OBDII systems.

 

But my car is a 1998 Civic. OBD2, of course, but pre-00.

 

Dammmn smog!

 

Yeah, it's a pain. But I would hate to be breathing that 1970s air. Stay indoors warnings, elevated heath risks and ailments. I hate how the regs make mods tougher than they might be. But I can live with it, since I have to!

Thanks.