In california, if a car has a the "check engine light on," it won't pass the smog test?

Answer 1

It may pass the "smog" test, but the check engine lite being illuminated indicates a problem.In Cal. this is an immediate failure.

Answer 2

The smog test does not read the dashboard. The technician has to look at the odometer reading, but the check engine light has literally dozens of causes, many of which have nothing to do with the vehicles emissions.

Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the check engine light could mean anything from "disaster eminent!" to "Your oil is due for a change." to "It's time for your 10 thousand mile check up."

Answer 3

I bought a used car and about 1 week after buying it the check engine light has been going on and off. It apparently passed the emission test, so it can't be a huge problem. Have fun trying to find out what the problem is, maybe it's best to find out if it'll pass or not.

Answer 4

probably not - that check eng light means the car is running in "limp" mode because some component is or has failed. The ecm goes into a default program to insure you are not stranded and allows the engine to run outside of the desired specs and usually is running too rich to meet clean air standards - has it been on for a while ? notice a decrease in fuel economy?

Answer 5

yes and no. If the light signifies a bad o2 sensor then possible the car will fail it's emissions test. If the light is for something else not related then no.

Answer 6

well it depends. but if i were you i would disconnect the battery then reconnect it and see if the light is still on. If its not then theres no problem with the engine. if it is still on then you do have a problem and i think it might or it might now depending on what is wrong. Also i think that they might also tell you whats wrong with it.