California Smog Check Inspector Practice Test

On 2000 and newer gasoline powered vehicles, how many incomplete monitors are permissible?

1. None

2. One

3. Two

4. Three

The correct answer is: None

For 2000 and newer gasoline-powered vehicles, having no incomplete monitors is permissible when the vehicle is subjected to a smog check. Incomplete monitors indicate that the vehicle's on-board diagnostic system (OBD II) has not completed its self-testing for certain emissions-related components. If any of the monitors are incomplete at the time of the smog check, the vehicle may not pass inspection, as the OBD II system needs to demonstrate that it is functioning correctly and has completed all self-diagnostics. The standards for smog testing ensure that the OBD II system is active and operational, which is crucial for ensuring that emissions control systems are working as designed. This regulation emphasizes the importance of a vehicle's ability to monitor and report on its emissions-related components and helps in maintaining the overall air quality standards set by environmental authorities. In contrast, having one or more incomplete monitors can lead to failure of the smog check, as a vehicle must show full compliance with the diagnostic checks to be considered roadworthy in terms of emissions control. Thus, the requirement for having no incomplete monitors is critical for maintaining the effectiveness of California's smog check program.