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Hybrid Smog Check in Escondido, CA
In California a hybrid gets smog checked on the same schedule as a gas car: nothing at renewal for its first eight model years, then every other year. Escondido STAR Smog Check tests hybrids at 1602 East Valley Parkway, STAR-required notices included. Walk in Monday through Saturday, book online, or call (760) 690-2360.
- 4.9★ · 2,430 Google reviews
- STAR certified
- BAR-licensed station #297258
- Walk-ins welcome
- Se habla español
Is your hybrid due?
Your DMV renewal notice is the final word: it says whether you need a smog check ("Smog Certification Required") and whether it has to be at a STAR station. To estimate it yourself, add eight to the model year. A 2020 hybrid, for example, first needs a renewal smog check in 2028. Until then, the owner pays a smog abatement fee with the DMV renewal instead.
What to bring
- The hybrid.
- Your DMV renewal notice or the documents DMV sent you.
What to expect
Walk in or book online
OK the written estimate
first; our coupon page shows the current price.
Inspection
under the state procedure for your model year.
Report
with the result and any open safety recalls.
Before the test
A battery disconnect or replacement resets the readiness monitors, and so does clearing codes. Drive normally for a week or two afterward before you come in. With the check engine light on, a vehicle will not pass.
If your hybrid fails
Choose any licensed test-and-repair or repair-only station for the fix; BAR's Auto Shop Locator shows nearby ones. Some emissions repairs may be covered by your manufacturer's warranty, so check your owner's manual. Then our $30 smog retest applies within 30 days (see how the retest works).
Makes we test
Ford, Toyota, Audi, Lexus and every other make: see them all.
What drivers say
5 out of 5 stars
“Service was fast. Prices are fair. Overall a great efficient business. I would highly recommend going here for your smog check.”
Frequently asked questions
Do hybrids need a smog check in California?
Yes, on the same schedule as gasoline cars.
When will my 2022 hybrid need its first check?
2022 + 8 = 2030. Until then, a smog abatement fee is paid with the DMV renewal.
Are EVs exempt?
Fully electric vehicles are exempt. Hybrids are not.
Is a STAR station required for my hybrid?
Your DMV renewal notice may require a STAR station. We are STAR certified.
Can you repair a hybrid that fails?
No. We're a test-only station; repairs are done at a station you choose.
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
Hybrid drivers stop by from Oak Hill, East Valley, San Marcos and Valley Center.
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.
Book your hybrid's smog check
Bring the car and your renewal notice.