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STAR Smog Check in Escondido, CA
Smog Check Escondido is a test-only, STAR-certified smog station in Unit C at 750 North Escondido Blvd, just north of downtown. We handle renewal, sale and out-of-state smog checks, including STAR-required notices, until 5:30 PM on weekdays and 4 PM on Saturday. Walk in, book online, or call (760) 975-3178.
Look for Unit C at number 750, a short drive up from the Grand Avenue district. Highway 78 and I-15 are close for drivers from San Marcos, Harmony Grove and the west side. A smog inspection is the one thing we do, so we take the time to explain it.
- 4.9★ · 1,428 Google reviews
- STAR certified
- BAR licensed station #293160
- Walk-ins welcome
What to bring
Have your car and your DMV renewal notice with you. The notice lets you know whether this year's registration needs a smog certification and whether the inspection must be at a STAR station. Moving a car into California, or selling one? Bring the DMV mail that came with it. If the notice can't be found, call us first and we'll help you figure out what to bring.
Step by step
Show up or book
Walk-ins are welcome. To lock in a time, book online.
We run the inspection
The vehicle is entered into the state's smog system and tested according to its model year. On most vehicles built in the last couple of decades, the test reads the onboard diagnostic system and includes a look at the emissions hardware.
We explain the result
You get the inspection report, with any open safety recalls, and a plain-English rundown. A passing certificate stays valid for 90 days.
The current price is on our coupon page.
If your car fails the inspection
It isn't possible to promise a pass; the test reports what the car is doing that day. If yours doesn't pass:
- Report explained. We go over the Vehicle Inspection Report with you and explain what didn't pass.
- Repair where you want. A licensed test-and-repair or repair-only station of your choosing does the work; BAR's Auto Shop Locator finds one.
- Retest at our station. Return within 30 days of the paid, failed inspection for our $30 smog retest (how our retest works).
If the battery was disconnected or codes were cleared during the work, drive normally for a week or two first. Its readiness monitors must finish before the retest can be completed.
Makes we test
Smog testing is the same process for every make. Among the brands we test:
- Toyota
- Honda
- Ford
- Nissan
- Lexus
- Mazda
- Jeep
- Chevrolet
- BMW
- Subaru
- Mercedes-Benz
- Hyundai
- Volkswagen
- Kia
- Audi
- Acura
- GMC
- Dodge
- Buick
- Volvo
The full list is on our vehicles we smog check page.
What drivers say
5 out of 5 stars
“Fast, affordable … friendly. … They are a STAR smog check place.”
5 out of 5 stars
“I needed to get a smog check and this place was great. … The owner was very friendly and helpful and I got done what I needed with ease. I will come back here when I need my next smog.”
5 out of 5 stars
“Love this place! Super friendly. Great service. Great prices. What more could you want?”
Frequently asked questions
Why does my notice say "STAR station"?
STAR is a California Bureau of Automotive Repair program for smog stations that meet its performance standards, which the BAR monitors on an ongoing basis. Certain DMV notices require that a vehicle be certified at a STAR station. We can test those vehicles, and every other vehicle that needs a smog check.
What should I bring with me?
Your car and your DMV renewal notice. For a transfer of ownership or an out-of-state car, include the documents DMV sent you.
How often does California want a smog check?
On a two-year cycle for the typical car, timed with registration. Younger gasoline cars — about eight model years and newer — usually aren't on that cycle yet; their owners pay a smog abatement fee. Sales and first-time California registrations are the other common moments a certificate is needed. The DMV notice for your car is the authority on what's required.
What if my car fails?
We explain the inspection report, a licensed repair station of your choosing fixes the car, and our $30 smog retest applies within 30 days.
Do you handle hybrids and diesels?
Yes for hybrids. Diesel rules depend on model year and weight rating, so call (760) 975-3178 to confirm we can test your diesel before you drive over.
My car came from another state. Does it need a smog check?
Most likely. Before a car from another state can be registered in California, the DMV typically wants a passing smog inspection on file. All-electric vehicles are among the exceptions. Bring the car and the paperwork the DMV gave you.
Location and hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Smog Check Escondido
Smog Check Escondido · 750 North Escondido Blvd Unit C, Escondido, CA 92025 · BAR license #293160 · (760) 975-3178
Most visits start in downtown Escondido, Old Escondido, Westside or Harmony Grove.