Smog Check in San Diego, CA
Browse 50 verified smog check stations in San Diego. Every location listed below is licensed to perform the inspections required for vehicle registration in California. Find addresses, phone numbers, and hours so you can plan your visit and pass your test before your renewal deadline.
Smog inspection station
Smog Check
3060 Carmel Valley Rd Unit C, San Diego, CA 92130, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.9 (3016)
Smog inspection station
3B Smog Check Station
4505b Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 5.0 (997)
Auto repair shop
Speedy Auto Repair & Smog Check
2950 Kurtz St Suite F, San Diego, CA 92110, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.6 (904)
Smog inspection station
Star Station Smog Check 3 PB
2920 Damon Ave unit b, San Diego, CA 92109, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 5.0 (847)
Smog inspection station
Zaks Smog Check & Auto Registration
6011 Mission Gorge Rd Ste B, San Diego, CA 92120, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 5.0 (683)
Smog inspection station
Smog Check
2484 F St suite a, San Diego, CA 92102, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.9 (563)
Smog inspection station
Excel Smog
3914 Wabash Ave, San Diego, CA 92104, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.9 (505)
Smog inspection station
3B Smog Check Station
6037 Mission Gorge Rd, San Diego, CA 92120, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 5.0 (476)
Auto repair shop
Robert's Auto Service
4630 Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.8 (458)
Smog inspection station
Star Station Smog Check (Murphy Canyon)
3690 Murphy Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92123, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.9 (440)
Auto repair shop
University City Service Center
3901 Governor Dr, San Diego, CA 92122, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.7 (366)
Smog inspection station
STAR STATION SMOG CHECK OB
4794 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92107, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 5.0 (326)
Smog inspection station
Standard Smog Test Only
8660 Miramar Rd N, San Diego, CA 92126, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.8 (285)
Smog inspection station
College Smog Check
4622 College Ave, San Diego, CA 92115, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.8 (251)
Smog inspection station
Convoy Smog
3727 Convoy St c, San Diego, CA 92111, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.7 (240)
Smog inspection station
North Park Smog Test Only
3827 Bancroft St, San Diego, CA 92104, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.8 (237)
Smog inspection station
MID-CITY SMOG CHECK CENTER
3085 Madison Ave #B, San Diego, CA 92116, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.8 (231)
Auto repair shop
San Diego Auto Star Smog Service & Repair
2912 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.6 (231)
Smog inspection station
California Smog Inspection
494 S Meadowbrook Dr, San Diego, CA 92114, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.8 (229)
Smog inspection station
South Bay Smog Check Test Only Center Inc
2281 Flower Ave suite d, San Diego, CA 92154, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.5 (223)
Smog inspection station
Miramar STAR Smog and Vehicle safety
7645 Carroll Rd, San Diego, CA 92121, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.9 (200)
Smog inspection station
Quick Smog
1741 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.8 (193)
Smog inspection station
V & T Smog Test Only
9545 Kearny Villa Rd UNIT 104, San Diego, CA 92126, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.3 (166)
Smog inspection station
Lo Sieu Smog Test Only Center
6670 Miramar Rd #B, San Diego, CA 92121, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.4 (165)
Smog inspection station
A & P SMOG TEST ONLY STAR CERTIFIED
7835 Armour St, San Diego, CA 92111, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.5 (160)
Auto repair shop
Kwon's Auto Repair
6690 Miramar Rd Suite B, San Diego, CA 92121, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.6 (145)
Smog inspection station
Smog Check San Diego
3112 Midway Dr #G, San Diego, CA 92110, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.2 (143)
Smog inspection station
Border Pass Smog Check
8363 Otay Mesa Rd, San Diego, CA 92154, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 3.9 (139)
Smog inspection station
Fairmount Smog Test Only Star Certified Station
3326 Fairmount Ave, San Diego, CA 92105, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.7 (138)
Auto repair shop
Brandon Auto Smog Repair Center
6670 Miramar Rd, San Diego, CA 92121, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 3.9 (137)
Smog inspection station
ASAP Smog Test & Repair (STAR Certified)
1776 Palm Ave, San Diego, CA 92154, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.5 (132)
Smog inspection station
SAN DIEGO SMOG STATION
4642 College Ave, San Diego, CA 92115, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 5.0 (130)
Smog inspection station
Instant Smog Check And Repairs
1905 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.1 (129)
Smog inspection station
Smog Test Only
8242 Miramar Rd, San Diego, CA 92126, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.6 (127)
Smog inspection station
Montezuma Smog Check
6590 El Cajon Blvd #B, San Diego, CA 92115, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.8 (124)
Smog inspection station
California Smog Test Station
1425 Lincoln Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.2 (121)
Auto repair shop
TN Auto Repair
6517 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.7 (119)
Smog inspection station
RB Smog Check and Star Station
11643 Iberia Pl, San Diego, CA 92128, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.6 (110)
Smog inspection station
AA Smog Shop
3546 Barnett Ave, San Diego, CA 92110, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.7 (108)
Smog inspection station
Smog Express
6930 Camino Maquiladora # A, San Diego, CA 92154, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.7 (98)
Smog inspection station
Smog Clinic
4191 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.7 (97)
Smog inspection station
San Diego Smog Check
5099 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.9 (96)
Smog inspection station
SMOG CHECK - BRAKE AND LAMP INSPECTION
6414 University Ave ste a, San Diego, CA 92115, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 3.7 (95)
Smog inspection station
O B Smog Test Only
4694 Voltaire St B, San Diego, CA 92107, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.6 (89)
Smog inspection station
Morena Smog LLC
1076 Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.7 (83)
Smog inspection station
AAA Smog & Repair Center
7178 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.9 (78)
Smog inspection station
Auto Smog
5780 Miramar Rd, San Diego, CA 92121, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.6 (49)
Smog inspection station
California Smog & DMV Services
2445 Otay Center Dr Suite 108, San Diego, CA 92154, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 4.6 (37)
Smog inspection station
Smog Station
9585 Black Mountain Rd # A, San Diego, CA 92126, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 3.3 (35)
Smog inspection station
California Smog
4961 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105, United States
Emissions Testing Station · OBD-II · ★ 1.0 (1)
Yes. San Diego is located in California, which requires smog check statewide. If your vehicle is registered in California, you must pass a Smog Check before you can renew your registration.
California's program, the Smog Check Program, requires periodic testing for most gasoline-powered vehicles above a certain model year. The program is administered by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), under Dept. of Consumer Affairs.
For the full breakdown of California's rules, including exemption details, testing frequency, waiver thresholds, and registration deadlines, see our California Smog Check requirements page.
At the station
What to expect at a San Diego smog check station
Most stations in San Diego perform an OBD-II diagnostic scan as the core of the inspection. The test typically takes 15 to 30 minutes if there is no line. The inspector connects a scan tool to your vehicle's OBD-II port, reads stored trouble codes, checks that readiness monitors have completed their drive cycles, and verifies that your check engine light is off.
Some older vehicles, typically those made before 1996, may require a tailpipe measurement or a visual inspection of emissions components such as the catalytic converter and gas cap. The inspector will let you know which tests apply to your vehicle's year and fuel type.
You will receive a vehicle inspection report at the end of the test. A passing result is sent electronically to the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), under Dept. of Consumer Affairs. If your vehicle fails, the report will list the reason so you can have repairs made before retesting.
Preparation
How to prepare for your smog check in San Diego
Drive your vehicle for at least 15 to 20 minutes before arriving at the station. This warms up the engine and catalytic converter and helps readiness monitors complete their cycles. Highway driving at consistent speeds is more effective than stop-and-go city traffic for completing readiness cycles.
Do not clear diagnostic trouble codes or disconnect your battery in the days before your test. Cleared codes reset readiness monitors and will cause a rejection even if nothing is mechanically wrong with your vehicle.
Make sure your check engine light is off. A lit check engine light is an automatic failure in every OBD-II emissions program. If the light is on, have the issue diagnosed and repaired before scheduling your test.
Check that your gas cap seals properly. A loose or cracked gas cap is one of the most common and least expensive reasons for a failed evaporative emissions test. Bring your current registration or any renewal notice you have received. Some stations may also ask for your vehicle identification number.
Choosing a station
Finding the right Smog Check station in San Diego
All stations listed on this page are licensed to perform Smog Check Program inspections in California. When comparing options, consider location and hours. Stations near your home or workplace with early morning, evening, or weekend hours can save you a separate trip.
Some stations offer walk-in testing while others require or prefer appointments. Wait times vary by day and time. Mid-week mornings are typically less busy than weekday evenings or Saturday mornings.
If your vehicle needs repairs after a failed test, a station that also offers repair services can handle both in one visit. Check whether the station accepts your preferred payment method, as some locations are cash only. Use the contact details in each listing to confirm current hours and any special requirements before your visit.
FAQ
Common questions
Have a question not covered here? Contact us and we will respond within one business day.
Where can I get a Smog Check in San Diego?
Where can I get a Smog Check in San Diego?
This page lists 50 verified smog check stations in San Diego, California. Browse the listings above for addresses, phone numbers, and hours. All stations listed are licensed to perform Smog Check Program inspections for vehicle registration in California.
How much does a Smog Check cost in San Diego?
How much does a Smog Check cost in San Diego?
In California, Smog check fees are set by individual stations and typically range from $30 to $60. A mandatory $8.25 smog certificate fee is added to every test. STAR stations may charge slightly more. Prices vary by location and vehicle type. The state does not regulate the inspection fee, so calling ahead to compare prices is worthwhile. Contact a San Diego station from the listings above for their specific pricing.
How often do I need a Smog Check in San Diego?
How often do I need a Smog Check in San Diego?
Every two years for registration renewal in participating counties. Your DMV renewal notice will indicate whether a smog certification is needed. A smog check is also required whenever a vehicle more than four model years old changes ownership, regardless of the last test date. Your DMV renewal notice will indicate whether a test is due for your current cycle.
What happens if my car fails the Smog Check in San Diego?
What happens if my car fails the Smog Check in San Diego?
You must repair the vehicle and pass a retest before your registration can be renewed. Income-eligible consumers may qualify for the Consumer Assistance Program, which provides up to $1,450 toward emissions-related repairs for 1996 and newer vehicles. CAP also offers vehicle retirement incentives of $1,350 to $2,000. If repairs are unaffordable, a waiver may be available in limited circumstances. Contact BAR at 800-952-5210 or visit bar.ca.gov/cap.
Which vehicles need a Smog Check in San Diego?
Which vehicles need a Smog Check in San Diego?
Most stations accept walk-ins, but many also offer appointments. Wait times vary by station and time of day. Scheduling ahead can reduce wait time, especially at busy STAR stations.
Are any vehicles exempt from Smog Check in San Diego?
Are any vehicles exempt from Smog Check in San Diego?
Electric vehicles are permanently exempt. Hybrid vehicles are not exempt and must follow the same biennial smog check schedule as gasoline vehicles once they exceed eight model years. Plug-in hybrids also follow the standard schedule.
Can I use any station in San Diego or do I need a specific type?
Can I use any station in San Diego or do I need a specific type?
All stations on this page are authorized to perform Smog Check Program inspections in California. Check the listing details and your registration notice to confirm if any specific station type is required for your vehicle.
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