STAR-certified smog check and repair station in Huntington Beach. We test your car, send passing results to the DMV electronically, and if it fails, we can fix it here — including through the state’s CAP repair assistance program.
At ExperTec Automotive in Huntington Beach, we are a California STAR-certified Smog Check and Repair Station, authorized by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) to perform both smog tests and emissions-related repairs under the CAP (Consumer Assistance Program).
As a STAR-certified center, we meet elevated performance standards set by the state and use advanced emissions testing equipment. Our technicians receive specialized training to accurately inspect and diagnose vehicles for compliance with California’s strict emission regulations.
The STAR program plays a crucial role in reducing air pollution by:
Identifying vehicles with excessive emissions
Helping owners repair or retire polluting vehicles
Ensuring cleaner air and improved public health across California
Whether you need a smog test to renew your registration or are concerned about a failed emissions test, our Huntington Beach location offers fast, professional service you can trust. Conveniently located near the corner of Talbert Avenue and Beach Boulevard., we proudly serve vehicle owners from Fountain Valley, Westminster, Seal Beach, and surrounding Orange County areas. Book your smog test at our Huntington Beach location today and keep your vehicle California compliant.
The Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) is a California initiative that helps low-income vehicle owners who fail their smog check either repair or retire their vehicles.
Managed by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), CAP offers two types of financial support:
If your vehicle doesn’t pass a smog inspection, CAP may provide up to $1,450 toward emissions-related repairs, helping you get back on the road without the full financial burden.
If your vehicle is beyond economical repair, the program offers a financial incentive to voluntarily retire it through an approved dismantler. This supports cleaner air by removing high-polluting vehicles from California’s roads.
To receive assistance, applicants must:
Meet income eligibility guidelines
Own a vehicle that fails a smog check
Use a participating STAR-certified station (like ExperTec)
In California, a Smog Check is required to measure the amount of air pollutants your vehicle emits and ensure it complies with state environmental standards.
Every 2 years for vehicles over 8 years old
When registering an out-of-state vehicle in California
When selling a vehicle that is more than 4 years old
The DMV will indicate on your renewal notice if a Smog Check is required
Your vehicle will undergo a series of inspections, including:
Visual Inspection – Examining the exhaust system and emissions components for tampering or damage
Functional Inspection – Checking key systems such as:
Check Engine Light
Ignition System
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System
Fuel Evaporation System
Gas Cap integrity
Diagnostic System Test – Scanning the vehicle’s onboard computer for fault codes
Tailpipe Emissions Test – Measuring exhaust output to ensure emissions are within legal limits (on applicable vehicles)
Note: Hybrid and newer vehicles may follow slightly different testing procedures depending on the make, model, and year.
Follow these simple steps to complete your smog check at ExperTec Automotive:
You can book online, call us, or just stop by our Huntington Beach location. Walk-ins are welcome, but scheduling can reduce wait time.
Bring your vehicle registration and a valid photo ID. If you’re here for DMV registration renewal, bring your notice if available.
Our STAR-certified team will:
Perform a visual and functional inspection
Run the tailpipe emissions test (if applicable)
Review your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics
We’ll let you know immediately if your vehicle passed or failed:
Pass – We send your results to the DMV electronically
Fail – We’ll explain your next steps and discuss CAP repair assistance if you’re eligible
If needed, our Huntington Beach location is also a licensed smog repair station, so we can help fix any issues on the spot.
“Great service! Came in for a smog test late on a Friday afternoon and they took care of it in no time, with a comfortable waiting room to boot.”
Danielle W.“Went to Expertec today on Talbert Avenue to get my tire fixed and to get a smog check. They had both done in no time and were very friendly and professional. We will be going back for sure for all of the services they offer!”
Kathleen A.“Awesome customer service!!! FREE complementary cold water bottles and cookies too!! I didn't have an appointment for my smog check but they took me right away and made it happen. This is my second time coming here and I will definitely be coming back in the future!”
Jen H.Our Huntington Beach shop is on Talbert Avenue near Gothard Street, just a few minutes from Huntington Central Park, Beach Boulevard and the 405 Freeway.
From beach traffic on PCH to commutes on the 405, Huntington Beach driving is a mix of salt air, sand and stop-and-go miles. Most vehicles in California need a smog check every two years when you renew your registration, and when a vehicle is sold. Bring your DMV renewal notice to our Huntington Beach shop and we’ll handle the test and any needed repairs.
Neighborhoods we serve: Downtown Huntington Beach, Huntington Harbour, Seacliff, Sunset Beach, Huntington Central Park area, Bella Terra / Edinger corridor.
Nearby cities: Fountain Valley, Westminster, Seal Beach, Garden Grove, Midway City.
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TonyProud member of the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce.
7680 Talbert Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Mon–Fri 7:30AM–6PM · Sat 7:30AM–4PM · Sun Closed
Book in Huntington BeachGet DirectionsView Shop DetailsAt Expertec Automotive our smog checks are $64.95. Check out our special offers page to see if we are currently running any smog test discounts.
The test usually takes 20 – 30 minutes, we recommend booking an appointment to avoid any additional wait time.
As a certified test and repair center, should your vehicle fail the test, we offer expert advice on the underlying reasons for the failure and perform the required repairs to meet emission standards. It is important to note that you cannot renew your vehicle registration until these repairs are completed.
Ensuring proper engine maintenance, routinely replacing worn parts, and adhering to a regular oil change schedule are vital for improving the chances of passing a smog test. Additionally, addressing any warning lights or diagnostic trouble codes before the test is imperative.
Failing to complete a required smog check will prevent you from renewing your vehicle’s registration. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires a smog check and the vehicle’s approval before a new registration is issued.
Driving a vehicle with an expired registration due to a missed smog check may lead to fines upon detection by law enforcement. Additionally, late compliance with the smog check requirements might result in extra fees for registration renewal.
Vehicles must pass a smog check before they can be sold or transferred to a new owner. If your vehicle fails the smog check, you may need to repair it before selling or transferring ownership.
Booking ahead is recommended. You can book online or call ExperTec Automotive Huntington Beach, and scheduling ahead keeps your wait as short as possible.
Bring your vehicle registration or DMV renewal notice and a valid photo ID.
Yes. When your vehicle passes, we send the results to the DMV electronically so you can complete your registration.
Yes. ExperTec Automotive Huntington Beach is a STAR-certified smog test and repair station and a state-authorized CAP repair provider, so we can test your vehicle and repair it if it fails.
Our Huntington Beach shop is at 7680 Talbert Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92648. Call (714) 848-9222 or book online.
Monday through Friday 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. We are closed on Sunday.
Yes. Our ASE-certified technicians service domestic, European and Asian vehicles, including hybrids and diesels.
Yes. Every repair includes a 3 Year / 36,000 Mile Nationwide Warranty plus 12 Month / 12,000 Mile Roadside Assistance.
Book online in minutes at ExperTec Automotive Huntington Beach. Online appointments are drop-off appointments; for a waiting appointment, please call the shop.
Mon–Fri 7:30AM–6PM · Sat 7:30AM–4PM. All appointments booked online are drop-off appointments. For waiting appointments, please call the shop.
7680 Talbert Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
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