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Diesel Smog Check in Escondido, CA
Bringing a diesel to our Escondido STAR station? Call first. Smog rules for diesels depend on the model year and weight rating. Call us before you come in and we'll confirm whether yours needs a check and whether we can test it here, at 1602 East Valley Parkway: (760) 690-2360.
- 4.9★ · 2,430 Google reviews
- STAR certified
- BAR-licensed station #297258
- Walk-ins welcome
- Se habla español
How California sorts diesels
| Diesel | Smog program |
|---|---|
| 1998 and newer, GVWR 14,000 lb or less | In the program |
| 1997 and older | Exempt |
| Over 14,000 lb GVWR | Exempt |
Diesels get no newer-model-year exemption, so a diesel doesn't get the first-years break that newer gas cars do.
Before you call
- Note the year, make and model.
- Find the GVWR, usually on the label in the driver's door jamb.
- Have your DMV renewal notice or the documents DMV sent you nearby.
Call (760) 690-2360 and we'll confirm whether we can test your diesel here.
After we confirm
Come in or book online
Approve the estimate
before the inspection starts.
Leave with your report
, which shows the result and any open safety recalls.
If it fails
We don't repair. A licensed test-and-repair or repair-only station of your choice does that (BAR's Auto Shop Locator lists them). Afterward, our $30 smog retest applies within 30 days (see how the retest works). If the check engine light is on, a vehicle will not pass.
Makes we test
Ford, Toyota, Audi, Lexus and every other make: see them all.
What drivers say
5 out of 5 stars
“Came here for a star smog check. Great costumer service. The process was fast and easy. Highly recommend it”
Frequently asked questions
Is my diesel in the smog program?
If it's 1998 or newer with a GVWR of 14,000 lb or less, yes. Diesels from 1997 and older, and those over 14,000 lb GVWR, are exempt.
Do newer diesels skip smog for a few years?
No. Diesels get no newer-model-year exemption.
Can I bring my diesel straight in?
Please call (760) 690-2360 first and we'll confirm whether we can test it here.
What's GVWR?
Gross vehicle weight rating. It's usually printed on the label in the driver's door jamb.
Hours and location
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Escondido STAR Smog Check
APEX Smog · 1602 East Valley Parkway, Escondido, CA 92027 · BAR license #297258 · (760) 690-2360
Truck owners phone us from Valley Center, Lehner Valley, East Valley and Poway.
Cash, all major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted. Waiting room with Wi-Fi. English and Spanish (se habla español). Holiday hours follow our Google Business Profile.
Call before you come
We'll confirm whether we can test your diesel here.