How to Pass a Smog Test on a Budget

<img src="https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/dcr-apis/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/AdobeStock_353914433.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/> Originally written by Alex Galvan of The Car Doctor If you own an older vehicle (1999 or prior) in California, getting your biennial smog test can be stressful. Even if your vehicle drives fine, long-term buildup in its fuel system can cause increased emissions, which may result in a failure to pass smog. In this case, you typically have two options: pay for costly parts replacement or replace your vehicle entirely. However, there’s another option you may not be aware of.   If your vehicle is on the borderline of passing its emissions test, a simple store-bought product can make the difference between passing and failing. CRC Guaranteed to Pass® is a fuel additive with powerful detergents that are designed to remove carbon and varnish deposits from vehicle fuel systems and emission control components. This product reduces CO, HC and nitrogen oxide emissions, and it’s effective for both tailpipe exhaust analysis and on-board diagnostics emissions testing methods. Guaranteed to Pass can be purchased at your local auto parts supply store for about $25. After filling your car with gas, pour the product into your fuel tank. When the tank is empty, fill up again and go get your smog check. Nine times out of 10, the vehicle will pass with flying colors and you’ll get your registration tags for two more years without having to replace expensive catalytic converters or other emission control components.  <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a> Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-auto-transmissions/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Auto Transmission Shops</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-francisco-auto-repair/" target="_self">San Francisco Auto Repair Shops</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/marin-auto-repair/" target="_self">Marin County Auto Repair Shops</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-auto-repair/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Auto Repair Shops</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-auto-repair/" target="_self">Alameda County Auto Repair Shops</a> Related Articles <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Auto-Transmissions/" target="_self">The Essential Guide to Auto Transmissions</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>