Failed a Smog Check

Failed as a Gross Polluter? Here's What Happens Next

A "gross polluter" result means your vehicle failed by a wide margin, not just a minor miss. It changes where you can get tested and what the retest process looks like.

What "gross polluter" actually means

California flags a vehicle as a gross polluter when its emissions readings exceed standard limits by a significant margin, or when it fails specific test components outright. Once flagged, retesting must happen at a STAR-certified station — STAR station testing for vehicles flagged as gross polluters or previously failed smog checks.

The free retest window

Car wouldn't pass the first time? No worries. We provide a free retest within 30 days for 1996 and newer vehicles. That means if you get repairs done and come back within the window, you're not paying for a second full test — just get the necessary repairs done first.

What to do between the failed test and the retest

1. We'll walk you through exactly what needs attention and point you toward next steps so you know what to fix before coming back for a retest.
2. Get the flagged repairs done by a qualified mechanic.
3. Come back within the free-retest window with your paperwork from the original test.

Other vehicle types we test

Beyond gross polluters, we handle STAR Smog Check, Out-of-State Vehicles, Hybrid & Diesel, and RVs, Trucks & Minivans.