BAR Smog Check Glossary Introduction Any specialized area of knowledge has its own jargon, words and acronyms that have obscure or specialized definitions within that knowledge area. The California Bureau of Automotive Repair's Smog Check Program is no exception. This glossary is intended to assist you in understanding those specific and technical meanings. Air Injection System (AIS) Pumps air into the exhaust manifold to burn unburned fuels (Hydrocarbons and Carbon Monoxide) and helps to warm up the catalytic converter. There are several types of systems used: an air pump design which uses an electric pump, a mechanical pump driven by the engine, or a pulse air design which uses exhaust pulses to draw air into the exhaust. Also known as the Smog Pump. ARB / CARB (California Air Resources Board) A government agency that oversees the air quality and establishes the Rules and Regulations to maintain healthy air quality. Typically referred to simply as ARB. ASM (Acceleration Simulation Mode) The test type for vehicles operated on a dynamometer (treadmill like device) which simulates actual driving conditions. The vehicle is tested at 15 mph with a 50% load and at 25 mph with a 15% load on the engine. AVE (Average Emissions) The average passing emissions for vehicles in the same Emissions Standards Category (ESC). ESCs are based on model year and whether the vehicle is a passenger car or a light-, medium-, or heavy-duty truck. The average passing emissions reading is meant as a guidepost for inspectors when repairing vehicles that fail a Smog Check; it has no effect on the pass/fail result of the emissions test. Basic Area An area less polluted than an enhanced area requiring only Two Speed Idle Smog testing for Biennial, Change of Ownership, and Initial Registration in California. 1 P a g e
Blow-by The gases that go around or "blow-by" the piston rings that form the seal between pistons and the cylinder walls as an engine operates. Even in engines kept operating perfectly, some volume of gas always leaks past the piston rings into the crankcase. As engines wear due to age or poor maintenance the amount of "blow-by" increases. BTDC (Before Top Dead Center) The measurement, in degrees of rotation, before a piston reaches the top of its compression stroke. See Ignition Timing Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. The Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) is a consumer protection agency focused exclusively on automotive repair issues. BAR licenses auto repair dealers, Smog Check stations, and Smog Check inspectors. BAR administers the Smog Check program, as required by law. BAR investigates complaints from consumers about auto repair establishments, and recovers millions of dollars for consumers each year. BAR is completely separate from the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Air Resources Board. CAP (Consumer Assistance Program) The Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) is available at participating Gold Shield stations for motorists whose vehicles have failed their biennial Smog Check. CAP currently will provide up to $500 toward the cost of repairs that allow a vehicle to pass the Smog Check. At this time owners who choose to retire their vehicle rather than repair it may receive $1,000 or $1500 under the CAP program. 2 P a g e
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) A colorless, odorless gas which is a byproduct of most combustion processes and also of human respiration. It is the same gas found in soda pop. High levels of CO2 in exhaust typically indicate greater engine efficiency; however, CO2 is considered a greenhouse gas that may cause global warming. High or low levels of carbon dioxide emissions are not grounds for a vehicle failing the Smog Check; the measurement is meant as a diagnostic tool for inspectors. CO2 is measured in percent. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is fatal to many life forms in moderate concentrations. CO emissions are often the byproduct of an overly rich fuel mixture. Unhealthy levels of CO emissions result in a vehicle failing its Smog Check. CO is measured in percent. CAT (Catalytic Converter) Located between the exhaust manifold and the muffler, this device uses precious metals as a catalyst to turn hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, oxygen, and oxides of nitrogen into carbon dioxide and water vapor. Catalytic Converter (CAT) Located between the exhaust manifold and the muffler, this device uses precious metals as a catalyst to turn hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, oxygen, and oxides of nitrogen into carbon dioxide and water vapor. Certification Indicates whether a vehicle was manufactured to meet United States Environmental Protection Agency or more stringent California emissions standards. Some vehicles were not manufactured to meet either criteria. These vehicles are considered "Grey Market" and require additional steps to pass a Smog Check inspection. Change of Ownership Area An area which meets the Federal Air Quality Standards. Smog check inspections are only required on vehicles changing ownership and out of state vehicles initially being registered in California. These areas require only a TSI test. CO (Carbon Monoxide) A colorless, odorless gas that is fatal to many life forms in moderate concentrations. CO emissions are often the byproduct of an overly rich fuel mixture. Unhealthy levels of CO emissions result in a vehicle failing its Smog Check. CO is measured in percent. 3 P a g e
CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) A colorless, odorless gas which is a byproduct of most combustion processes and also of human respiration. It is the same gas found in soda pop. High levels of CO2 in exhaust typically indicate greater engine efficiency; however, CO2 is considered a greenhouse gas that may cause global warming. High or low levels of carbon dioxide emissions are not grounds for a vehicle failing the Smog Check; the measurement is meant as a diagnostic tool for inspectors. CO2 is measured in percent. Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS) A sensor used to measure the vehicle s engine coolant temperature that sends the signal to the on-board computer for processing. CTS (Coolant Temperature Sensor) A sensor used to measure the vehicle s engine coolant temperature that sends the signal to the on-board computer for processing. Cylinders The number of combustion cylinders in the engine (typically 4, 6, or 8). Dashpot A mechanical device that slows the closing of the throttle plate. When upon sudden deceleration high emissions are produced, the dashpot slows the closing of the throttle plate, effectively reducing emissions. Defective Defective is an obvious condition of an emission control system or component noticed during the visual inspection, due to normal wear, or deterioration, or unintentional disturbance that will affect the operation of an emission control component or system. It is not a condition that occurs as a result of tampering. N unintentional disturbance includes, but is not limited to, a hose, wire, cap, or thermal valve or switch, disturbed and not reconnected or corrected when the vehicle was serviced. Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Computerized engine control systems have a certain amount of built-in self-diagnostic capability to detect problems that affect engine performance and emissions. When a fault is detected the computer will store a diagnostic trouble code in its memory and illuminate the Check Engine light also known as the Malfunction Indicator Light. 4 P a g e
Directed Vehicle In order to comply with state law, the California Department of Consumer Affairs/Bureau of Automotive Repair (DCA/BAR) directs a portion of the vehicles registered in Enhanced Smog Check Areas to Test-Only and Gold Shield stations. These vehicles are called Directed Vehicles. Enhanced Areas are those parts of the state with "serious," "severe," or "extreme" ozone pollution problems. DLC - (Diagnostic Link Connector) A connector to link the on-board computer, with an external diagnostic tool. DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) Commonly used acronym for the California Department of Motor Vehicles. DMV ID Number A number used to locate the electronic smog certificate in the event it is electronically misfiled. DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Computerized engine control systems have a certain amount of built-in self-diagnostic capability to detect problems that affect engine performance and emissions. When a fault is detected the computer will store a diagnostic trouble code in its memory and illuminate the Check Engine light also known as the Malfunction Indicator Light. Dynamometer A treadmill-like device that simulates driving conditions. ECM (Engine Control Module) Vehicle's onboard computer system. ECS (Emission Control System) The Emission Control System (ECS) is made up of a number of separate emission control components which, together, reduce the level of pollutants emitted from a vehicle. EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) System The vehicle's Exhaust Gas Recirculation system reroutes exhaust gases back through the intake manifold to lower engine temperatures and, in so doing, reduces NOx emissions. 5 P a g e
EGR Functional test The EGR Functional test is part of the Two Speed Idle test (TSI), but is not necessary for the ASM test that tests for NOx. During the Smog Check inspection, the inspector performs a functional test of the EGR system per the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. This ensures the EGR system is operating as designed. The vehicle will either pass or fail the EGR Functional test based on observations made by the inspector during the test. EGR Visual test As part of the Smog Check inspection, the inspector performs a visual inspection of all emission components the vehicle is equipped with, including the EGR system. The inspector visually inspects the EGR valve and associated plumbing for defects or modifications. The inspector will either pass or fail the EGR System Visual test based on observations made during the test. EIS (Emission Inspection System) The equipment used to analyze tailpipe gases during the Tailpipe Emissions test. Legally valid analysis may only be done using a BAR approved EIS. This system allows the Smog Inspector to perform a Smog Check inspection. The EIS consists of a 5-gas analyzer, additional hardware, software, fuel cap tester, and a dynamometer with safety restraints. The most distinctive component of the EIS is the dynamometer, a treadmill-like device that simulates driving conditions. When necessary, the EIS can perform a Two-Speed Idle test on vehicles that cannot be physically tested on a dynamometer. Pictured is the "BAR 97". Emission Standards Category (ESC) ESCs are the pass/ fail emission level cut points for a specific class of vehicles. ASM tested vehicles from 1976-1995 have unique cutpoints based on their specific model year, make, model, vehicle type, certification type, test weight, engine size, and transmission type. Vehicles that do not have vehicle specific ASM cutpoints will use the ESC cutpoint classes. Emissions Test The third of the three vital parts of the California Smog Check. This is where the emissions analyzer tests actual emissions from your vehicle, as measured at the tailpipe. Only the emissions test can label a car a Gross Polluter. Gases measured include Carbon Monoxide (CO), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Hydrocarbons (HC) and Oxygen (O2). In California's most polluted urban areas (Enhanced Areas), the emissions test also measures levels of Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx). Engine Control Module (ECM) An on-board computer processor. 6 P a g e
Engine Size Measurement of piston displacement made in either, cubic inches, cubic centimeters, or cubic liters. Enhanced Area Urbanized areas of the state which are classified by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency as serious, severe, or extreme non-attainment areas for ozone or a moderate or serious non-attainment areas for carbon monoxide with a design value greater than 12.7ppm. In these areas BAR operates the Enhanced (most stringent) Smog Check Program, requiring an ASM dynamometer test on vehicles if viable. ESC (Emission Standards Category) ESCs are the pass/ fail emission level cut points for a specific class of vehicles. ASM tested vehicles from 1976-1995 have unique cutpoints based on their specific model year, make, model, vehicle type, certification type, test weight, engine size, and transmission type. Vehicles that do not have vehicle specific ASM cutpoints will use the ESC cutpoint classes. ET System An electronic link between Bureau of Automotive Repair, Department of Motor Vehicles, and Smog Check Stations along with inspectors. The link is used to transmit information from one to another. EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control System) The EVAP system prevents raw gasoline from escaping the vehicle and evaporating into the atmosphere. As part of the inspection, the inspector visually inspects the EVAP system and associated plumbing for defects or modifications. The inspector will either pass or fail the EVAP system based on observations made during the test. (See also LPFET.) Exhaust 1. The exhaust gases produced by fuel combustion in an engine. 2. The system of pipes that conducts exhaust gases safely from the engine to the atmosphere. Usually either single (one pipe) or dual (two pipes). Includes the tailpipe, muffler, and catalytic converter. Exhaust Gas Recirculation System (EGR) The vehicle's Exhaust Gas Recirculation system reroutes exhaust gases back through the intake manifold to lower engine temperatures and, in so doing, reduces NOx emissions. 7 P a g e
Fail An unacceptable level on any portion of the test (i.e. Functional, Visual, or Tailpipe). A failure of the entire Smog Check inspection indicates that the level of harmful emissions from this vehicle, on one or more portions of the test, exceeds the standard for this model/engine combination, and is contributing to unhealthy air in California. Any result of a Visual, Functional, or Tailpipe emission test that is above the standard acceptable level. Fillpipe Restrictor A functional test of the fuel pipe restrictor is no longer performed on vehicles being registered in California. The EIS may prompt for the fillpipe restrictor test for vehicles undergoing an initial Smog Check inspection. If this happens, enter "N" into the EIS fillpipe test prompt. Fuel Cap Integrity Test Tests whether gasoline fumes can leak out from your tank around the cap. Gasoline fumes contain high levels of harmful pollutants, including benzene, a known carcinogen. Studies by the United States Environmental Protection Agency show that around 30 percent of all the emissions from a vehicle are in the form of fuel evaporation, usually from the fuel tank. The EIS will either pass or fail the fuel cap based on the observation made during the test. Fuel Cap Visual Test As part of a Smog Check inspection, the inspector visually inspects the fuel tank cap for defects, (i.e. cracked or deteriorated rubber seal). The inspector will either pass or fail the fuel cap visual test based on observations made during the test. Fuel Evaporative Controls The EVAP system allows for proper fuel system ventilation while preventing fuel vapors from reaching the atmosphere. This system catches and stores vapors from the fuel system and fuel tank while the engine is off, which is when most fuel evaporation occurs. When the engine is started, these fuel vapors can be removed from storage and burned. In most systems, storage is provided by an activated charcoal (or carbon) canister. Fuel Type The type of fuel the vehicle is operating on when it arrives at a Smog Check station. G = Gasoline D = Diesel P = Propane N = Liquid or Compressed Natural Gas (LNG/CNG) M = Methanol >20% E = Ethanol >20% 8 P a g e
Functional Inspection The second of the three vital parts of the California Smog Check. These tests check the mechanical functioning of various systems in the vehicle. The systems are: EGR, MIL, OBD II, Ignition Timing, Fuel Cap, and Evaporative Emissions via LPFET. Emissions system defects identified during the functional test inspection are considered unhealthy for the air and result in an overall Smog Check failure. GP (Gross Polluter) The emissions level, or "cut point," at which a vehicle fails as a Gross Polluter. The emissions of a gross polluter are typically at least twice as high as those of an ordinary failing vehicle. Repairs on a Gross Polluter must be verified at a Test-Only or Gold Shield station. Grey Market Vehicle A vehicle originally manufactured for sale outside the United States and not designed to meet California or Federal emission standards is a grey market vehicle. Before most grey market vehicles can be registered in California they must be modified and tested by an ARB Certified Laboratory to meet California emissions standards. During this process, a California Certificate of Conformance (CCC) is issued indicating the vehicle has been successfully modified and tested. The CCC also lists the required emission controls. GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is the weight of the vehicle plus the maximum load it is designed to carry (the weight of the vehicle itself plus fuel, passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue weight). This differs from the vehicle's test weight. GVWR is usually listed on a vehicle's identification label located on most vehicles' driver's side door. HC (Hydrocarbons) Hydrocarbons are the component of fuels that produce energy. HC emissions from a vehicle are basically unburned fuel. High levels of HC emissions indicate incomplete fuel combustion, either as the result of a misfire or of low engine compression. Unhealthy levels of HC emissions result in a vehicle failing its Smog Check. Hydrocarbons are measured in parts per million (PPM). Ignition Timing (or simply "timing") The timing of the spark relative to the operation of the valves and the placement of the piston in the cylinder. BTDC stands for "Before Top Dead Center" often indicated by a mark on the main pulley on the front of the engine. For most engines, when the timing is set to 0 degrees BTDC the number one sparkplug will fire at the very top of the number one piston's stroke. Advanced timing is when the spark fires before the piston has reached the top of the stroke. Retarded timing is when the spark fires after the piston has reached the top and has already started to descend. For vehicles where the manufacturer specifies a timing setting, the Smog Check inspection allows plus or minus three degrees from that setting. For vehicles where the manufacturer specifies a timing range, the vehicle must be within that timing range. 9 P a g e
Inspection Reason Either biennial (in conjunction with a DMV registration renewal notice), change of ownership (selling a car), or initial (first time registered in California). KOEO (Key On, Engine Off) Some on board computer testing is done with the key in the on position but with the engine off. KOER (Key On, Engine Running) Some on board computer testing is done with the key on and the engine idling. License The California license plate number on the vehicle. If there is not plate, "NONE" is entered into the EIS. LPFET (Low Pressure Fuel Evaporative Test) Testing of the vehicle system's ability to contain fuel vapors and prevent them from evaporating into the atmosphere. Make The vehicle manufacturer's brand name. Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) The amount of pressure in the engine s intake manifold. Usually used in reference to the MAP Sensor, which senses vacuum or pressure in the air intake system. MAX (Maximum Emission) The maximum allowable emissions for the particular make, model, and year of vehicle. Vehicles with emissions that exceed this level, or "cut point," fail the emissions portion of the Smog Check. There are separate cut points for vehicles failing at maximum vs. Gross Polluter levels. MEAS (Measured Emission) The amount of each specific pollutant measured during the Emissions test of the vehicle. 10 P a g e
MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light) Also known as the "Check Engine Light" and as the "Service Engine Soon" light this early warning signal on the instrument panel indicates engine problems. Such problems could cause serious performance or engine problems for the vehicle if not checked and repaired, and could lead to excessive amounts of pollution being emitted during certain driving conditions which may not be detected during a Smog Check. Therefore, if the MIL is on or does not work, the vehicle will fail the Smog Check. Missing A missing emission control system or component is one which all or part has been removed from the vehicle or engine. Model The vehicle manufacturer's model name. Model-Year The vehicle manufacturer's model year for the vehicle. Not necessarily the year the vehicle was built. Modified An emission control system or component has been modified if: It has been disabled even though it is present and properly connected to the engine and/or vehicle; It has been replaced with a component not marketed by its manufacturer for street use on the vehicle, An emissions related component of the system has been changed such that there is no capacity for connection with or operation of other emissions control components or systems. NOX (Oxides of Nitrogen) Oxides of Nitrogen are odorless gases that help form Smog, and give Smog its characteristic brown color. NOx is produced when temperatures in the combustion chambers exceed 2500 degrees Fahrenheit. Excessive engine combustion chamber temperature could be caused by a lean fuel mixture, advanced timing, carbon buildup, malfunctioning EGR or a malfunctioning engine cooling system. The function of the EGR System is to reduce NOx. Unhealthy levels of NOx emissions result in a vehicle failing its Smog Check. NOx is measured in parts per million (PPM). O2 Oxygen is a colorless, odorless gas necessary for life on the planet and also for engine combustion to occur. The atmosphere is comprised of approximately 21% Oxygen. High levels of O2 in the exhaust indicate a problem with the catalytic converter. High or low levels of O2 emissions are not grounds for a vehicle failing the Smog Check; the measurement is meant as a diagnostic tool for inspectors. O2 is measured in percent. 11 P a g e
OBD II The acronym for On-Board Diagnostics II, the second generation of on-board self-diagnostic equipment required in California and Federal vehicles. Diagnostic capabilities are incorporated into the hardware and software of a vehicle's computer to monitor virtually every component that can affect emission performance. Each component is checked by a diagnostic routine to verify that it is functioning properly. If a problem or malfunction is detected, the OBD II system illuminates a warning light on the vehicle's instrument panel to alert the driver. Typically this warning light will display the phrase "Check Engine" or "Service Engine Soon." The system will also store important information about the detected malfunction so that a repair technician can accurately find and repair the problem. Odometer The number of miles on a vehicle as reported by the inspector based on their reading of the vehicle's odometer. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts obtained from the manufacturer of the vehicle. Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) Oxides of Nitrogen are odorless gases that help form Smog, and give Smog its characteristic brown color. NOx is produced when temperatures in the combustion chambers exceed 2500 degrees Fahrenheit. Excessive engine combustion chamber temperature could be caused by a lean fuel mixture, advanced timing, carbon buildup, malfunctioning EGR or a malfunctioning engine cooling system. The function of the EGR System is to reduce NOx. Unhealthy levels of NOx emissions result in a vehicle failing its Smog Check. NOx is measured in parts per million (PPM). Oxygen Sensor (O2) A device located in the exhaust manifold or exhaust pipe which compares the level of Oxygen in the ambient air to the level of Oxygen in the exhaust stream and sends a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer, which adjusts the air/fuel mix accordingly. Also called "the O2 Sensor". Ozone (O3) A chemical formed by the interaction of Hydrocarbons and Nitrogen Oxides when struck by sunlight. Ozone is a respiratory irritant that can reduce lung function, aggravate asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, and other chronic lung diseases, as well as inflame and damage the lining of the lungs. Animal studies indicate that Ozone may also lower the body's resistance to respiratory infection. 12 P a g e
Partially Enhanced Area Areas with higher pollution levels requiring an ASM Smog test on all vehicles if viable, with no vehicles mandated to be tested at a Test Only center. Pass A positive result in any one of the Visual, Functional, or Tailpipe inspections. Also, a Pass for the entire Smog Check inspection would indicate that the level of harmful emissions from this vehicle, on all portions of the test, is within the range of what is reasonable for this model/engine combination. PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) Positive Crankcase Ventilation removes unburned gases blown around the pistons and rings from the engine crankcase, and reroutes them through the intake manifold to be burned. Percent The unit used to measure CO, CO2, and O2. 1% equals 10,000 ppm. Pollutant Waste material that pollutes the air. PPM (Parts per Million) This is a unit of measurement for both Oxides of Nitrogen and Hydrocarbons which are measured by the emission analyzer. Regular Test and Repair Station Regular Test and Repair stations perform inspections and repairs on all types of vehicles. This station type is not allowed to certify Directed (Test Only) vehicles or Gross Polluter vehicles. Repair Tech Name / Number The name and license number of the licensed Smog Check technician who repaired the vehicle, if applicable or known. RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) A measurement of engine speed. Engine turning speed typically does not correspond to the speed of the vehicle. 13 P a g e
Smog The word Smog is a combination of the words "smoke" and "fog". Classic Smog results from the combination of smoke and Sulfur Dioxide. Modern or photochemical Smog results when Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), also known as Hydrocarbons (HC), are struck by sunlight and form particulates and ground-level Ozone. Smog Check Certificate Number This is the number of the electronic certificate sent to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) which allows the owner to complete their registration. The Vehicle Inspection Report is proof of the vehicle passing a Smog Check. Software Version / EIS Number The BAR-certified version of the software that the emissions inspection system used during the test and the unique identification number for that specific EIS. SPK (Spark Control) Mechanical or electronic devices and systems that control ignition timing. State The issuing State of the license plate on the vehicle. Station Number The license number of the Smog Check station where the test was performed. TAC (Thermostatic Air Cleaner) Preheats cold air being drawn into a cold engine to help fuel vaporize before burning. This system is important before the engine warms up to improve cold driveability and reduce cold-engine emissions. Tach (Tachometer) A gauge used to display the engine s speed in Revolution Per Minute (RPM). 14 P a g e
TAS (Test Analyzer System) See EIS Technician Name / Number The name of the licensed Smog Check technician who performed the test, and their individual license number. Test Only Station A Test Only station is authorized to test and certify all vehicles, but may not perform any repairs. Test Weight The actual weight of the vehicle's drive axle as measured during the Smog Check. Toxics Harmful substances. TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) A potentiometer used to measure the position of the throttle opening and send the signal to the on board computer for processing. Transmission The mechanism that connects the power created by the engine to the differential and wheels. May be either manual (3, 4, 5, or 6 speed) or automatic. TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) A bulletin issued to auto dealers and repair technicians by the manufacturer detailing a fix for a known concern. The bulletin is for informational purposes only, it is not a recall. Dealers and technicians are under no obligation to make the repair or notify customers. TSB's are intended to assist in ongoing repairs. TSI (Two-Speed Idle test) When necessary, the EIS can perform the Two-Speed Idle test on vehicles that cannot be physically tested on the dynamometer. For example when a vehicle is full-time 4wd or has nondisengaging traction control. The TSI inspection includes two test sequences; a 2500 rpm test and an idle test. A TSI is also done in a Change of Ownership Area where only TSI tests are required. 15 P a g e
Type Vehicles eligible for the Smog Check program include passenger cars, light-duty trucks and heavy-duty trucks, motor homes, and Government Fleet vehicles. Vacuum Lines to Sensors/Switches A visual inspection of the vacuum lines to the sensors and switches in all of the emission control systems on the vehicle is performed. The inspector will either pass or fail these components based on observations made during the test. VECI (Vehicle (Underhood) Emission Control Information label) A label attached under the vehicle s hood with the vehicle s tune-up and emissions system information. VID (Vehicle Information Database) The VID is maintained by BAR and contains registration data from DMV plus Emission Control System (ECS) data, Smog Check history, vehicle profiling data, station and inspector data, and certificate sales data. VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) Your vehicle's unique identification number, usually 17 digits but sometimes less. Typically found on the top of the dash just inside the windshield on the driver's side, or on a plate/sticker in the driver's side door jamb. The bar code on your DMV registration renewal also contains this number. Contact the DMV if the VIN on your vehicle does not match the VIN on your registration form. VIR (Vehicle Inspection Report) The vehicle inspection report is the printout given to the consumer after the Smog Check has been completed. It includes the pass/fail results of the inspection as well as the readings obtained during the emissions portion of the test. It also includes the station and inspector information. Visual Inspection The first of the three vital parts of the California Smog Check. The Visual Inspection checks for missing, disconnected, or visibly damaged emissions-system components, including the catalytic converter, thermostatic air cleaner, heat riser and Smog pump. Emissions system defects identified during the visual inspection result in an overall Smog Check failure and lower air quality. 16 P a g e
VLT / VLT Record # Vehicle Look-up Table (VLT) is the list of vehicle ESCs maintained by BAR. A vehicle's ESC (Emission Standards Category) record contains specific information for each vehicle model and engine combination available. Information from the VLT regarding a vehicle's weight and aerodynamic resistance allows the Smog Check emissions analyzer to correctly set the resistance on the dynamometer. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) Organic chemical compounds, also known as Hydrocarbons (HC), that significantly vaporize (evaporate) and enter the earth's atmosphere under normal temperature and pressure conditions. VOCs react with NOx and sunlight to form Photochemical Smog. Wiring to Sensors/Switches A visual inspection of the wiring to the sensors and switches in all of the emission control systems on the vehicle is done. The inspector will either pass or fail these components based on observations made during the test. 17 P a g e