In what year did the Smog Check program exemption begin for new vehicles?

• A. 1998.
• B. 2010.
• C. 1995.
• D. 2002.

Answer: (D)

New vehicles get a period during which Smog Check isn’t required because engines are fresh and emissions are considered within normal factory limits. That exemption lasts for six model years after the vehicle’s manufacture. The rule change that started this exemption began in 2002, so starting in 2002 new vehicles entered that six-model-year window. After that period, the vehicle would need to participate in the standard Smog Check schedule (typically starting in the seventh model year and continuing at the usual intervals). The 2002 start of the exemption is why that year is the correct choice.