Here are the top 5 complains that consumers have when getting a smog check: 1.
Rude Service - Believe it or not, there are LEGAL tricks that can be done to help improve the chances of your car passing smog, such as warming up your car right before the test.
If your smog technician doesn't really seem that friendly, he could probably care less whether you pass or fail.
Sometimes, those little details could be all the difference.
2.
Outrageous Prices - There are other reputable, trustworthy shops that charge much cheaper rates than your dealer ($180 per smog).
Make sure you find one that has a proven history of satisfaction and great reviews.
3.
Wasted Time - Imagine sitting around in a filthy garage for 2 hours, when your smog should only take 15 minutes.
Either the smog is not being done right, or the technician is just being lazy.
Pick a better shop.
You have better things to do than spending your Saturday afternoon at gas station.
4.
Greasy Fingerprints - I hate it when I see someone crawl out from under the car and jump right into mine.
Even the slightest drop of oil on my steering wheel, carpet or seats can drive me crazy.
Smog checks weren't meant to be dirty.
5.
Unnecessary Repairs - It's a common practice to have you come in for one problem and leave with another.
I would stay away from those super cheap, discounted places.
How can you pay off your $50,000 smog machine charging $30 bucks for a smog check.
A good rule of thumb is, if it seems too good to be true, often times it is.
Moral of the Story, Not All Smog Shops Are Created Equal.