San Francisco Smog Check Expert Offers Advice on How to Pass a Smog Check

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When the DMV requests a smog check test, many people who own older vehicles panic. But Auto Smog and Oil Changers of San Francisco says there are things car owners can do before a smog check to increase the likelihood of it passing.

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Auto Smog and Oil Changers offers advice for passing a smog check.

Every two years, California vehicle owners face having to submit their car to an emissions or smog test—and pass. To prepare for the test, Auto Smog and Oil Changers of San Francisco recommends five things that can make the difference between passing and failing the test.

Step 1 - Change the Oil and Oil, Air, and Gas Filters
Dirty oil causes bad emissions to come through on the test. In addition to changing the oil, be sure to change the oil filter. Change the air filter for optimal results. If the fuel filter is over five years old, it also needs to be changed.

Step 2 - Check the Positive Crankcase Valve (PVC)
Give the PVC a shake. If it clicks, then it is working fine. If not, it needs to be changed.

Step 3 - Change the Spark Plugs
If the spark plugs appear dirty or worn, they probably need to be changed. When checking the spark plugs, don’t forget to check the wires as well. If they are looking worn, they might also need to be replaced.

Step 4 - Check for Leaks
Check all of the hoses in your engine compartment, especially vacuum lines. If there are any that show wear, replace them. Look for oil leaks. If there is oil on the engine, it means the vehicle is losing oil pressure and emissions are going to be off. Many times oil leaks result from failed gaskets, which must be replaced.

Check for exhaust leaks. To do this, simply start the vehicle and rev up the engine. If the muffler sounds unusually loud, then there is probably an exhaust leak that needs to be fixed.

Step 5 – Bring the Vehicle in Warm
One final thing you can do the day of the test is to drive the car fifteen minutes on the freeway, and then fifteen minutes on the city streets before bringing it in for the test.

For more information about Auto Smog and Oil Changers Inc., call (415) 263-9517, check their website at http://www.autosmogandoilchangers.com/, or visit their shop at 1296 Shotwell Street in San Francisco.

About Auto Smog and Oil Changes Inc.
Auto Smog and Oil Changers Inc. is an environmentally responsible service station specializing in oil changes smog checks in San Francisco. Over the last 20 years owner Howard Ruy has ensured his customers receive fast service, honest assessments, and low prices at his San Francisco test only smog inspection station.

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Howard Ruy
Auto Smog
(415) 920-9785
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