Benefits & Limitations of a Test Only Smog Check Station

You received a DMV registration notice that states you need a smog check.  The question that comes to mind is; do I take my car to a test only smog station or to a test & repair smog station. 
​We will address all pertinent criteria to help your decision.

Alignment of Incentives:

Test & Repair stations make most of their money by doing repairs.  Hence, Test & Repair stations are incentivized to fail the smog test. 
​Test Only stations make all their money by doing smog tests.  Especially those Test Only stations that offer a free retest are incentivized to pass the smog test.
​In conclusion, your desire to pass a smog test is aligned very closely with, and only with a Test Only station.

Ease of Repairs in the Event of a Failed Smog Test:

Test Only smog stations are not authorized to perform repairs.  They do not carry necessary tools and equipment to repair vehicles.  Hence, in the event of a failed smog test, you will need to take your vehicle to a auto repair shop.
Test & Repair smog stations can repair vehicles at their location.  Hence, in the event of a failed smog test, you have the added convenience of not having to take your vehicle elsewhere.  The reality is, 88% of the vehicles pass their smog at our shops, hence it is not a material issue.  To see smog passing stats specific to your vehicle, please visit our detailed Smog Statistics page.

Wait Times:

Generally speaking, Test & Repair shops employ technicians that are qualified to both run a smog check and to perform repairs.  Their primary job on which they spend their most time is repairs.  If you go to a Test & Repair shop without an appointment, the technician will first need to finish what they are doing before addressing your needs.
On the contrary, Test Only shops do just smog checks.  Well run Test Only shops are designed to get you in and out quickly, with no need to set an appointment.
​In conclusion, your wait times are almost always lower at a Test Only shop.

Conclusion:

Unless you have a car that you are certain will fail the smog test, it always makes sense to get a smog done at a test only smog check station.

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Ready to get your smog certification at a Test Only STAR Station?

click below for location's page
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​1) All Smogs in Hemet, Riverside County

2) Green Smog Check in Norco, Riverside County

3) Foothill Quicky Smog in Upland, San Bernardino County

​4) Smog Check Pros in Van Nuys, Los Angeles County

5) A1 Smog Test Center in Lawndale, Los Angeles County