California Smog Check Inspector Practice Test

If the E.O. for an aftermarket catalyst has been rescinded, what should the technician enter for the catalyst visual inspection?

1. Pass (P)

2. Fail (F)

3. Tamper (T)

4. Modified (M)

The correct answer is: Tamper (T)

When an aftermarket catalyst’s Executive Order (E.O.) has been rescinded, it means that that particular catalytic converter has been deemed non-compliant with emissions standards by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). In such cases, the technician should report that there has been tampering with the emissions system, specifically regarding the catalytic converter. Entering a "Tamper" designation indicates that the vehicle's emissions control system has been altered in a way that is not allowed under California's regulations. This provides an accurate reflection of the inspection status since the aftermarket catalyst is no longer recognized as compliant, which is crucial for ensuring that vehicles meet emissions standards. The other options, such as passing or failing the inspection outright, do not accurately convey the specific issue regarding the rescinded E.O. Similarly, marking it as modified could imply that the catalytic converter is still operational in a compliant manner, which is not the case here. Therefore, noting it as tampered is the appropriate and accurate action in this situation.