Your vehicle smog check aims to inspect your car’s emissions for pollutants in the San Francisco Bay Area. If the level of pollution is found to be exceedingly high, your vehicle will fail its smog check and you will have to make the necessary adjustments before going in for another test. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to prepare your vehicle for a smog check and improve your chances of passing. Here is a look at a few helpful tips for passing your vehicle smog check.

Check Your Levels

An automobile is a complex machine that requires a delicate balance in order for it to function properly. Before bringing your car in for a smog check, check its gas and coolant levels. You will need your coolant to keep your radiator cool; this is especially important during a vehicle smog check because your car will be stationary, so air will not be rapidly flowing through the radiator. You should also have enough gas in your tank that your fuel tank does not become exposed, as this can cause vapor to enter the fuel line. Be sure to change your oil before a smog check as well.

Go For a Spin

Thanks to your catalytic converter, your vehicle has the ability to shed its oil and gas residues through regular driving. All you have to do is spend some time with your car on the highway in the weeks leading up to your smog check, and your catalytic converter will make these polluting residues less harmful upon emission. It is important that you take your vehicle for a significant spin though, as shorter excursions will not allow the catalytic converter to heat up enough.

Address Your Check Engine Light

You will not pass your vehicle smog check if your check engine light is on. There are many reasons why this light may be illuminated, and it is important that you have your problem fixed before you attempt to pass a vehicle smog check. In some cases this may require you to purchase a new oxygen sensor for your vehicle.