Smog used to be a much bigger issue here in California. In the 60’s and 70’s when gas was cheap, big American muscle ruled the streets and cars were sold more on their horsepower than their miles-per-gallon.
However, a oil embargo in ‘73 made auto manufacturers put fuel economy first, and it also precipitated the import market makings its way into the American auto industry.
The Honda Civic made its domestic debut with the super efficient CVCC engine, which could pull numbers like 30 to 40 miles-per-gallon, all while running cleaner than other American carbureted vehicles.
And it was also in 1974 when California started its Smog Checks – making it a law that American automobiles manufactured on or after 1966 required a smog inspection upon change of ownership in California. A $50 repair cost limit was imposed on vehicles that didn’t pass the test – that’s about $300 in today’s dollars.
California cracked down in 1982 when its full smog check program was implemented. That’s the one that every resident still does biannually, unless you drive a vehicle that was manufactured in or before 1975, then smogging isn’t required.
Today, If your car doesn’t pass smog, it can certainly cost you much more than $50 to get your car in compliance. Anyone who had to purchase a new catalytic converter is probably familiar with the sticker shock attached to that one.
Assistance may be available for repairs
However, if you are in the unfortunate position of not being able to pass a smog test, the state has a program that may be able to help you out. The California Bar of Automotive Repair offers eligible consumers financial assistance toward emissions-related repairs at a STAR test-and-repair station. Owners of model year 1996 or newer vehicles may receive up to $1,200 in emissions-related repairs. If your car is from 1976 through 1995 you could receive up to $900 in emissions-related repairs.
There are requirements you need to meet and paperwork you have to fill out, but you see your options at their website – https://www.bar.ca.gov/cap
