Will Car Pass Smog with Check Engine Light On?
In most cases, no.
The check engine light is designed to alert you to a problem with your car’s emissions control system. When the light is on, it means that your car is not running as efficiently as it should be, and it is likely that it will not pass a smog test.
There are a few exceptions to this rule. In some cases, the check engine light may be on for a minor problem that does not affect the car’s emissions. For example, a loose gas cap can cause the check engine light to come on, but it will not affect the car’s ability to pass a smog test.
However, in most cases, the check engine light is on for a reason. If you see the check engine light on, it is important to have your car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more serious problems down the road, including expensive repairs.
What to do if your check engine light is on
If you see the check engine light on, the first thing you should do is pull over to a safe location and turn off your car. Once your car is off, you can restart it and see if the light goes away. If the light stays on, you should have your car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Here are some of the things that a mechanic will check when diagnosing your check engine light:
- The car’s computer
- The oxygen sensors
- The catalytic converter
- The exhaust system
Once the mechanic has diagnosed the problem, they will recommend the best course of action. In some cases, the problem may be simple and inexpensive to fix. In other cases, the problem may be more serious and require more extensive repairs.
How to avoid getting a check engine light
The best way to avoid getting a check engine light is to follow your car’s maintenance schedule. This includes getting regular oil changes, tune-ups, and inspections. By following your car’s maintenance schedule, you can help keep your car running smoothly and efficiently, and you can reduce the risk of getting a check engine light.
Conclusion
In most cases, a car will not pass a smog test with the check engine light on. If you see the check engine light on, it is important to have your car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more serious problems down the road, including expensive repairs.
