California Smog Check Inspector Practice Test

If the BAR97 EIS fails to communicate due to a communication error, what is the correct procedure for entering the odometer reading?

1. Enter the odometer reading in miles

2. Enter the odometer reading in kilometers

3. Leave the odometer section blank

4. Request a manual entry from DMV

The correct answer is: Enter the odometer reading in kilometers

The correct procedure in the event of a communication error with the BAR97 Electronic Inspection System (EIS) is to enter the odometer reading in kilometers. This is crucial because California's regulations require that odometer readings be recorded in kilometers when the system cannot communicate. This is to maintain consistency and to ensure the accuracy of mileage data, particularly as some vehicles, especially older models, may display odometer readings in kilometers. If the odometer reading were to be entered in miles during a communication failure, it could lead to discrepancies in the vehicle’s reported mileage, ultimately affecting its smog check records and reliability. Therefore, always recording the data in kilometers is the standardized approach adopted in case of such communication failures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and accurate vehicle assessments.