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Diesel Smog Check in Carlsbad, CA
In California, diesels from 1998 and newer with a GVWR of 14,000 lb or less are in the smog program; older or heavier ones are exempt. Smog rules for diesels depend on the model year and weight rating, so call Carlsbad STAR Smog Check at (760) 814-2021 to confirm we can test your diesel.
A two-minute call saves a wasted trip: we'll tell you whether yours needs a check and whether we can test it in our bay.
- 4.9★ · 538 Google reviews
- STAR certified
- BAR-licensed station #311178
- Walk-ins welcome
- Open seven days
Before you call
Have these ready:
- Model year and make.
- GVWR. Look for it on the label in the driver's door jamb.
- Your DMV renewal notice or the documents DMV sent you, if they asked for a smog check.
California's diesel smog rules
| Diesel | Smog program |
|---|---|
| 1998 and newer, GVWR 14,000 lb or less | In the program |
| 1997 and older | Exempt |
| Over 14,000 lb GVWR | Exempt |
Diesels also get no newer-model-year exemption, unlike gas and hybrid cars.
Once we've confirmed by phone that we can test your diesel, book or walk in. You approve a written estimate before the inspection.
If a diesel fails
The vehicle inspection report shows the results and any open safety recalls. With the check engine light on, a vehicle will not pass. The emissions work happens at a licensed station of your choice. BAR's Auto Shop Locator lists licensed stations that do emissions work, so you can pick one you trust. The $30 smog retest then applies within 30 calendar days: $21.75, plus the $8.25 certificate if it passes.
Makes we inspect
Our bay sees every make. Ford, Honda, Toyota, Volkswagen and Mazda turn up most often in our job photos, and the full brand list is on our vehicles we smog check page.
Drivers on Google
5 out of 5 stars
“Quick and easy. I pulled my truck in for a smog and was taken care of immediately. Would definitely recommend.”
Frequently asked questions
Does my diesel need a smog check?
If it's 1998 or newer with a GVWR of 14,000 lb or less, it's in California's smog program.
Are older diesels exempt?
Yes. Diesels from 1997 and older are exempt, as are diesels over 14,000 lb GVWR.
Is my new diesel exempt for its first eight years like a gas car?
No. Diesels get no newer-model-year exemption.
Can you test my diesel?
Call (760) 814-2021 before you come in, with the model year and GVWR handy, and we'll confirm we can test your diesel.
Where's the GVWR?
Usually on the label in the driver's door jamb.
Hours and location
Carlsbad STAR Smog Check
2509 Palomar Airport Rd, Suite 115, Carlsbad, CA 92011
(760) 814-2021
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM–4 PM |
Holiday hours: see our Google Business Profile. Wi-Fi in the waiting room. Hablamos español. Cash, major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay accepted.
Diesel owners call from Carlsbad, Vista, San Marcos and Oceanside.
Call us about your diesel
Model year and GVWR ready? Call, and we'll tell you whether to come in.
2509 Palomar Airport Rd, Suite 115, Carlsbad, CA 92011 · BAR license #311178 · (760) 814-2021