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When buying a used car who is responsible for smog?

Leia Doyle

When buying a used car who is responsible for smog?

The seller
The seller is responsible for smog inspection Section 24007 (b)(2) of the California Vehicle Code states it’s the responsibility of the seller to provide a valid smog certificate before or during the sale of a vehicle.

Do I need to smog a car I just bought in California?

Yes. If you are selling your car, you need to give the new owner a valid smog certification when you sell the car. If the car you are selling is less than four years old, you do not need to get a smog inspection. Instead, the new owner of the car will need to pay a smog transfer fee.

When you buy a new car do you have to smog it?

All hybrid vehicles, gasoline-powered vehicles, and alternative fuel vehicles that are 1976 model or newer require a smog check. Diesel-powered vehicles that are 1998 model or newer with a gross weight of 14,000 pounds and less will need a smog check.

What happens if you buy a car in California and it doesn’t pass smog?

Smog tests are, thus, an air pollution control measure. If your car can’t pass a smog test and you can’t fix it, then you cannot register it in California. If you buy a new vehicle in California, it is generally exempt from a smog test for the first six years of ownership, although it may be four years in some cases.

Is it illegal to sell a car without smog?

You can sell a car without a smog check when it’s still on the newer side. The only catch is that whoever buys the car is going to have to pay for a smog transfer fee, and that could impact how much they’re willing to pay for your car in the first place.

Can you buy a car without smog?

You cannot legally sell a car in California without providing a current smog certificate done within the 90 days prior to sale. You either need to take the car back and give the buyer the money back or pay for it to get properly smogged.

How do I make my car smog exempt in California?

How Do I Get Smog Exempt In California?

  1. If you received notification from the DMV that your vehicle needs a smog check but you assume you are excluded, contact the center to obtain a verification of exemption.
  2. Many vehicles are expected to be checked every other year in counties that need smog tests.

How much does it cost to transfer a car title in California?

How much does it cost to transfer a car title? California has a $15 title transfer fee, or $20 for out-of-state vehicles.

What to do after buying a used car?

5 Things to Do After Buying a Used Car

  1. Transfer the title. The first thing you need to do is secure a clean title to the vehicle.
  2. Get your vehicle insured.
  3. Register your car at the DMV.
  4. Get your car inspected by a mechanic.
  5. Get auto breakdown coverage for your car.

How do I avoid paying sales tax on a car in California?

So, here are some tips on how to reduce the amount of used car tax you will need to pay.

  1. Save on Used Car Tax with a Trade In at Purchase.
  2. Know Your California State Tax Laws.
  3. Keep a Record of Your Mileage.
  4. Keep Those Receipts and Records for Your Vehicle.
  5. Keep Your Car Properly Tuned Up and Save on Taxes.

Can you register a car without smog?

Technically you can’t renew your vehicle’s registration without a smog check, but you can pay your renewal fees. Allow us to explain… You may pay your vehicle registration renewal fees now without a smog check, but you’ll receive your new registration card and sticker after a passing smog check is obtained.

What if my car fails smog test?

If your car fails its smog check, a test-only center will give you a report that lists the possible reasons. A test-and-repair location can also provide service to prepare your car for a retest. Don’t delay repairs—you won’t receive your car’s registration stickers from the DMV until the vehicle clears a smog test.

Do you need a smog check before selling a car?

Smog Check Is Not Always Required Smog checks have become synonymous with car sales. Mostly everybody knows they need a smog inspection and certification before selling their used cars. However, you don’t necessarily need to get your car emissions tested every time you decide to sell your vehicle.

What kind of vehicle is exempt from smog check?

Exemptions 1 Gasoline-powered vehicles model year 1975 and older. 2 Natural gas-powered vehicles weighing over 14,000 lbs. . 3 Diesel-powered vehicles that: Are model year 1997 and older. OR Have a gross weight rating of over 14,000 lbs. 4 Electric vehicles. 5 Motorcycles.

Where can I get a smog check in California?

You can find a DMV-authorized smog check station near you or visit smogcheck.ca.gov . What is a STAR station? The California STAR program began on January 1, 2013. The STAR program sets smog check standards, and it replaces the old Gold Shield and Test Only program. What if my car fails the smog inspection?

When do I get my smog certificate from the DMV?

Once your vehicle passes inspection, you’ll receive a smog inspection certificate to present to the CA DMV when you register or renew your vehicle registration. Generally, most smog check stations also report inspections to the DMV electronically. This helps in case you want to renew your registration via mail or online.