Where to Take Your Vehicle for a Smog Test in Fontana

Fontana has two types of smog test stations: STAR stations (Smog Check Test and Repair) and test-only stations. STAR stations can perform the test and repair emissions problems on-site. Test-only stations perform the inspection but cannot do repairs — you take your results elsewhere if work is needed.

To find stations near you, use the California Bureau of Automotive Repair's official station locator at bar.ca.gov. Enter your ZIP code (92335, 92336, or 92337 for Fontana) and select "Smog Check" to see all licensed stations within your area. The locator shows the station's address, phone number, hours, and whether it's a STAR or test-only facility.

You can also call the BAR's consumer hotline at 1-800-952-5210 to ask for station recommendations. Have your vehicle's license plate or VIN ready when you call.

Key Takeaways

  • Fontana smog tests are performed only at stations licensed by California's Bureau of Automotive Repair, which you can find using the official bar.ca.gov locator.
  • STAR stations can test and repair your vehicle in one visit, while test-only stations perform the inspection and send results to the state.
  • Your vehicle must pass a tailpipe emissions test (OBD test for 1996 and newer vehicles, traditional test for older models) to receive a passing certificate.
  • Bring your vehicle registration, proof of ownership, and a valid ID; the test takes 30 minutes to an hour and costs between $30 and $70 depending on the station.
  • If your vehicle fails, you have 30 days to repair it and retest at any licensed station, or you can appeal the results to the BAR if you believe the test was performed incorrectly.

What to Bring and How Long the Test Takes

Bring your vehicle registration, proof of ownership (title or loan documents), and a valid photo ID. The station will need these to verify the vehicle and record the test results in the state system. Some stations may ask for your driver's license number and vehicle history.

The test itself takes 30 minutes to an hour. For vehicles from 1996 onward, the station performs an OBD test (On-Board Diagnostic), which reads emissions data directly from your vehicle's computer — no tailpipe probe needed. For older vehicles, the technician uses a probe inserted into the tailpipe to measure carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. The station will print your results on the spot.

Costs vary by station but typically range from $30 to $70. Some stations charge extra for retests if your vehicle fails the first time. Ask the station for its full fee before the test begins.

Understanding Pass and Fail Results

A passing result means your vehicle meets California's emissions standards for your model year and engine type. The station prints a Smog Check certificate (also called a passing report) and submits it electronically to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. You do not need to take the certificate to the DMV yourself — the station's submission is the official record.

A failing result means your vehicle's emissions exceed the state limit. The station will give you a detailed report showing which emissions (nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, or hydrocarbons) exceeded the standard. You then have 30 days to repair the vehicle and retest. You can retest at the same station or any other licensed station in California.

If you believe the test was performed incorrectly, you can request a retest at a different station within 7 days of the original test. The BAR also allows consumers to file a complaint if they suspect a station of fraudulent testing.

When Fontana Requires a Smog Test

California requires a smog test when you register a vehicle for the first time in the state, renew registration every two years (or annually for some older vehicles), or transfer ownership to a new owner. Fontana, as part of San Bernardino County, is in a non-attainment area for air quality, which means smog testing is mandatory — there are no exemptions based on location within the county.

Vehicles that are exempt from smog testing include those that are brand new (less than 6 model years old in most cases), vehicles powered entirely by electricity, and vehicles registered as classic or collector vehicles under specific conditions. Diesel vehicles registered after January 1, 2010, also have different testing requirements. Check with your local DMV office or the BAR website to confirm whether your specific vehicle is exempt.

What Happens If Your Vehicle Fails

After a failed test, you have 30 days to repair your vehicle and retest. During this time, you can still drive your vehicle legally — the failed smog test does not suspend your registration. However, you cannot renew your registration at the DMV until you pass a retest and submit the passing certificate.

Common repairs for failed emissions tests include replacing a faulty oxygen sensor, fixing a vacuum leak, replacing a catalytic converter, or updating engine software. Repair costs vary widely depending on the problem. Some repairs cost under $100; others (like catalytic converter replacement) can exceed $500. A STAR station can diagnose the problem and perform repairs in one location.

If you retest and pass within 30 days, the new passing certificate replaces the failed result in the state system. If you do not retest within 30 days, you will need to pay a retest fee and start the 30-day clock over when you eventually do retest.

Disputing a Failed Test Result

If you believe your vehicle was tested incorrectly or the station made an error, you can request a retest at a different station within 7 days of the original test. Bring your original failed report to the new station. If the second test passes, the passing result becomes your official record and the failed test is disregarded for registration purposes.

You can also file a complaint with the California Bureau of Automotive Repair if you suspect the station of fraud, improper testing procedures, or charging unauthorized fees. Complaints can be filed online at bar.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-952-5210. The BAR investigates complaints and can suspend or revoke a station's license if violations are found.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my smog test at a station outside Fontana?

Yes. You can take your smog test at any licensed California smog check station, regardless of where you live or where your vehicle is registered. Some people choose stations in neighboring cities if they find shorter wait times or lower prices. The test results are valid statewide.

What if I just bought a used car in Fontana — do I need a smog test right away?

If you are transferring the title to your name, yes — California requires a smog test before you can register the vehicle in your name. You have 10 days from the purchase date to complete the test and submit the results to the DMV. If you do not, you cannot legally drive the vehicle.

How long does a smog certificate stay valid?

A passing smog certificate is valid for 30 days from the test date. You must submit it to the DMV (or have the station submit it electronically) within that window. If 30 days pass without submission, you will need to retest and obtain a new certificate.

What if my vehicle is too old to test?

Vehicles older than 1975 are generally exempt from smog testing in California. Vehicles from 1975 to 1995 may have different testing requirements than newer vehicles. Contact the BAR or your local DMV to confirm the testing rules for your specific vehicle model year.

Can I get a smog test if my check engine light is on?

Yes, but your vehicle will likely fail. The check engine light indicates a diagnostic trouble code stored in your vehicle's computer. Most stations will still perform the test, but the OBD system will detect the code and your vehicle will fail. You should repair the problem first, clear the code, and then retest.