What Is the California Clean Truck Check (HD I/M) and Smog Certification?

The California Clean Truck Check, also known as the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Program, is vital to the state’s ongoing efforts to improve air quality and reduce emissions. If you own or operate a heavy-duty vehicle in California, staying informed about this program will be helpful. With more stringent regulations coming into play, keeping your truck compliant is not only a legal obligation but also a crucial step toward environmental responsibility. But what exactly is the California Clean Truck Check, and what is the smog certification process?

California's SMOG Check

A SMOG check is a mandatory inspection for most vehicles to ensure they meet the state's stringent air quality standards. The SMOG check applies to all gasoline-powered vehicles over eight years old and some diesel vehicles under 14,000 pounds. This test measures the amount of pollutants your car emits while operating, helping to reduce harmful exhaust emissions that contribute to smog and air pollution. Vehicles must pass the SMOG check every two years as part of the registration process. The goal is to keep all cars running cleaner, improving air quality for everyone in the state.

A STAR-Certified Test and Repair Station

We’re proud to be the only STAR Test and Repair Station in Jurupa Valley, CA, meaning we can both test and repair vehicles that fail their smog inspections. Being STAR-certified is a mark of excellence, as it indicates we meet California’s higher performance standards and are closely monitored by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) to ensure we provide accurate, trustworthy services. 

If your vehicle doesn’t pass the smog test, there’s no need to worry—our expert team is equipped to diagnose and fix any emission issues, whether it's a faulty oxygen sensor or a catalytic converter problem.

What Is the HD I/M Program

The HD I/M Program was introduced by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to enforce regular emissions testing for heavy-duty trucks. Designed to ensure that vehicles on the road operate as cleanly as possible, this program applies to most diesel and gasoline-powered trucks weighing over 14,000 pounds. The objective is to identify and fix emission-related issues before they contribute to poor air quality.

The introduction of the HD I/M Program is part of California’s larger strategy to meet air quality standards set by both state and federal agencies. Given that heavy-duty trucks account for a significant portion of nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter emissions, frequent smog checks are essential to reduce the environmental impact.

The Importance of Smog Certification for Trucks

For truck owners, obtaining a smog certification is not just about complying with state regulations. It’s about ensuring your vehicle is operating efficiently. A truck that passes the smog test is more likely to run better, use fuel more efficiently, and emit fewer pollutants into the air. Regular smog checks are a proactive measure to catch and fix potential emission issues, saving you from hefty fines or costly repairs down the line.

With new technology making smog tests more accurate and faster, 

ensuring your truck is up to state standards is easier than ever. The key here is regular maintenance and timely smog checks to avoid being flagged by the HD I/M Program.

We Are Now Certified for Clean Truck Smog Check Inspections

At D&S Automotive, we proudly announce that we are now certified by the state of California to perform Clean Truck Smog Check Inspections under the HD I/M Program. This certification allows us to test a wide range of vehicles, ensuring they meet California’s strict emission standards.

Whether you own a gasoline or diesel-powered vehicle, truck, or car, we are equipped with the latest testing technology to provide you with quick and accurate results. However, it’s important to note that we are unable to test some older diesel commercial trucks that require different equipment. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, feel free to contact us for clarification.

This certification opens up new possibilities for truck owners who are searching for a reliable, state-certified shop to handle their Clean Truck Check needs. Our team is ready to assist with every step of the process, from the initial inspection to certification.

Which Vehicles Require Smog Certification

Under the HD I/M Program, most heavy-duty trucks, including those powered by diesel and gasoline, are subject to regular emissions testing. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of which vehicles will need to pass the Clean Truck Smog Check:

• Heavy-duty vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 14,000 pounds
• Diesel trucks manufactured after 2010
• Gasoline-powered trucks that fall within the same weight category

By performing these inspections, the state of California aims to reduce the number of high-emitting vehicles on the road, which in turn helps improve overall air quality. Regular testing also helps prevent minor issues from developing into more significant problems that could lead to expensive repairs or even engine failure.

Why Choose D&S Automotive for Your Clean Truck Smog Check

With our certification in place, we can now offer you a reliable and efficient Clean Truck Smog Check Inspection. Our technicians are highly trained and familiar with the latest emission standards and testing procedures, ensuring that your vehicle is thoroughly inspected and certified in compliance with state laws.

Need a Clean Truck Smog Check, or a California Smog check for your car? D&S Automotive is your trusted, state-certified partner for fast and efficient inspections. Schedule your appointment today, and let our experts ensure your vehicle meets California’s emissions standards.