Carlsbad STAR Smog Check

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Hybrid Smog Check in Carlsbad, CA

Hybrids need a California smog check on the same schedule as gasoline cars; only fully electric vehicles are exempt. When your DMV renewal notice asks for one, bring the hybrid to Carlsbad STAR Smog Check, Suite 115 at 2509 Palomar Airport Rd. We're open seven days; walk in or book online.

4.9★ · 538 Google reviews

Hybrid smog check in Carlsbad, CA: Honda Civic on the dyno in our inspection bay

Your DMV renewal notice says when a smog certification is required.

  • 4.9★ · 538 Google reviews
  • STAR certified
  • BAR-licensed station #311178
  • Walk-ins welcome
  • Open seven days

What to bring

  • The hybrid.
  • Your DMV renewal notice or the documents DMV sent you. The notice tells you whether the check must be done at a STAR station.

How it works

Walk in or book. You approve a written estimate first, then we run the inspection required for your hybrid's model year. You leave with the vehicle inspection report.

First check on a newer hybrid: add eight to the model year. A 2019 hybrid, for example, gets its first renewal smog check in 2027. Until then, owners pay a smog abatement fee with the DMV renewal.

Your DMV renewal notice may require a STAR station. We are STAR certified.

If your hybrid doesn't pass

We go through the report with you. 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. Within 30 calendar days, the $30 smog retest is $21.75, plus the $8.25 certificate if it passes.

If the 12-volt battery was recently replaced or codes were cleared, drive normally for a week or two first. Some emissions fixes may be covered by your manufacturer's warranty, so check the owner's manual.

Hybrid smog check in Carlsbad, CA: BMW 5 Series with the hood open in our inspection bay

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

“… I have one hybrid vehicle I bring here aswell. This place is super convenient. Highly recommend this spot!!”
Rohan M., Google review

Frequently asked questions

Do hybrids need a smog check in California?

Yes, they follow the same schedule as gas cars.

When is my new hybrid's first check?

Add eight to the model year. Before that, a smog abatement fee is paid with the DMV renewal.

Is an electric car exempt?

Fully electric vehicles are exempt.

What if my hybrid fails?

The emissions work happens at a station of your choice. Back here within 30 calendar days, the retest is $21.75, plus the $8.25 certificate if it passes.

How much is a hybrid smog check?

See our coupon page.

Hours and location

Carlsbad STAR Smog Check
2509 Palomar Airport Rd, Suite 115, Carlsbad, CA 92011
(760) 814-2021

Opening hours
DayHours
Monday8 AM–5 PM
Tuesday8 AM–5 PM
Wednesday8 AM–5 PM
Thursday8 AM–5 PM
Friday8 AM–5 PM
Saturday8 AM–4 PM
Sunday9 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.

Hybrid owners drive in from Aviara, Carlsbad Ranch, Encinitas and Cardiff by the Sea.

Smog check your hybrid

Use the coupon, then book or walk in. More on our STAR Smog Check page.

2509 Palomar Airport Rd, Suite 115, Carlsbad, CA 92011 · BAR license #311178 · (760) 814-2021