Big Changes Ahead As California Introduces The STAR Smog Check Program

(prHWY.com) December 4, 2012 - Santa Maria, CA -- Beginning in January 2013, some significant changes are expected to shake up the California landscape as it pertains to the already stringent smog check program. Due to evidence of unethical testing procedures across the state, the new STAR smog check program is scheduled to take effect at the start of the new year.

The STAR program is the latest in a series of efforts over the last 15 years in California to meet the strict emissions standards of the EPA. Eligibility for this program has proven to be a challenge for a number of smog check stations that have failed to achieve high enough FPR (Fail/Pass Rate) scores. Without STAR certification, smog check stations will not be authorized to test "directed vehicles", the majority of which fall into the range of model years 1976 to 1999. Directed vehicles account for approximately 18 percent of all cars and trucks on California roadways.

The STAR program will apparently also make the smog inspection process substantially quicker and easier for newer vehicles, model years 2000 and newer. New test equipment will obtain pertinent data from the vehicle computer which will eliminate the tailpipe portion of the smog test for newer vehicles. Unlike directed vehicles, newer vehicles are not required to visit STAR locations. Main Street Shell Service is a STAR certified smog check facility in Santa Maria, CA and will be providing inspection and repair services for newer and directed vehicles at the start of the new year.

About the company:
Main Street Shell Service is a full service auto repair shop and STAR certified smog check station in Santa Maria, CA. We specialize in engine diagnostics, repair, and brake and lamp inspection.

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