What should a Smog Inspector advise a customer whose vehicle failed an ASM Smog Test?

• A. The Inspector should provide the customer with a list of shops in the area certified to perform smog repairs.
• B. The Inspector should offer to re-test immediately.
• C. The Inspector should advise the customer to drive the vehicle for a week before retest.
• D. The Inspector should suggest replacing the catalytic converter.

Answer: (A)

When a vehicle fails an ASM Smog Test, the important next step is to connect the customer with qualified help to fix the problem and bring the vehicle into compliance. Providing a list of nearby shops certified to perform smog repairs gives the customer access to technicians who are authorized to diagnose and repair issues that caused the failure, and to perform the required retest after repairs. This aligns with how the Smog Check program ensures repairs are done by qualified facilities before a vehicle can be re-tested.

Re-testing immediately isn’t appropriate because repairs need to be completed first and validated by a retest. Driving the vehicle for a week isn’t a mandated step to fix the failure. Recommending replacing a catalytic converter isn’t a standard or appropriate first-step action unless diagnostics specifically indicate that component is faulty and needs replacement.