California Smog Check Inspector Practice Test

What should a technician do if there's a discrepancy between the VIN on the registration and the vehicle?

1. Continue with the Inspection

2. Inspect Only the Registration

3. Use the VIN on the vehicle

4. Notify the Customer

The correct answer is: Notify the Customer

When a technician encounters a discrepancy between the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the registration and the VIN on the vehicle itself, notifying the customer is crucial. This step is important because the VIN is a unique identifier for each vehicle and serves as the primary means of registration and tracking for compliance purposes. Any mismatch could indicate issues such as mistaken identity of the vehicle, potential fraud, or errors in the records that need to be clarified before proceeding. By discussing the discrepancy with the customer, the technician can gather additional context or corrections that may be necessary for proper documentation and subsequent inspection. This ensures that the records remain accurate and that no compliance issues arise from continuing an inspection with incorrect or conflicting information. It also allows the customer an opportunity to rectify any mistakes or misunderstandings related to the vehicle's registration.