The questions we hear most often from Five Cities residents — from the basics to the things you'd only think to ask in the parking lot.
Pricing depends on vehicle type and the specific test. Call (805) 853-2163 for a quick phone quote, or stop by — we give you the exact price before starting.
About 15 minutes for the test. Total visit with check-in is usually under 25 minutes.
No — walk-ins welcome anytime. Book online for a guaranteed slot. Weekday mornings are the quietest times.
Monday through Saturday, 8am to 6pm. Sunday, 9am to 5pm. Open every day of the week.
Absolutely — we're the Five Cities shop. Grover Beach is about 5 minutes away, Pismo and Shell Beach about 10, and Oceano is just south. We also see customers from Nipomo who prefer the shorter drive compared to heading to Santa Maria.
Check your DMV renewal notice — it states whether smog certification is required. Generally, every two years for gasoline vehicles 1976+ and diesel vehicles 1998+ under 14,000 lbs.
If you're registering your vehicle in California for the first time, yes — you need a California smog inspection regardless of what state you came from. Welcome to the area — come see us on Grand Ave and we'll take care of it.
Fully electric vehicles are exempt. Plug-in hybrids and standard hybrids with gasoline engines still need testing.
Diesel vehicles 1998 and newer with a gross vehicle weight under 14,000 lbs need smog testing. Older diesels (1997 and prior) are exempt. We're equipped for diesel inspections — common in the agricultural Five Cities area.
We explain the cause and can usually repair it right here — we're a full Multicare facility. Fix, re-test, done. No separate mechanic, no second trip.
Yes — automatic failure. Get it diagnosed first. We handle diagnostics and repairs here.
California's Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) offers up to $1,200 in repair assistance or $1,500 for vehicle retirement for income-eligible residents. Visit bar.ca.gov for details.