How should the technician handle a missing ECS during a Smog Check?

• A. Deactivate the system and proceed.
• B. List the system as missing in the service log.
• C. Flag the ECS as missing on the EIS screen.
• D. List the system as missing in the EIS machine.

Answer: (D)

When a Smog Check encounters a missing Emissions Control System, the official test record must reflect that reality. Recording the missing ECS in the EIS machine is the correct step because the EIS machine is the authoritative source for the vehicle’s test status and data. This ensures the test cannot be misrepresented as passing with the system present and triggers the proper repair workflow. Deactivating the system and proceeding would bypass safety and regulatory requirements, and only noting it in a service log or on an on-screen indicator does not update the official test record. So, the proper action is to list the system as missing in the EIS machine.