“I have been going to this smog shop for about 20 to 25 years. The prices are totally excellent, the workers and owner are always nice and professional. Best smog check in Monterey Park.”
A & B Smog Test Center
Smog Check in Monterey Park,
done right the first time.
STAR-certified, test-only smog station for regular, diesel, hybrid, and CNG vehicles. Honest results, a free retest if you don’t pass, and no appointment needed.
Walk-ins welcome: Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 3pm
★ 4.4
116 Google reviews from Monterey Park drivers
STAR Certified Station
Free Retest If You Don’t Pass
Licensed Smog Inspectors
STAR Certified
DMV-approved smog station
Walk-Ins Welcome
No appointment needed
Free Retest
If your vehicle does not pass
Licensed Inspectors
State-licensed smog testing
STAR Certified Station
Walk-Ins Welcome
Free Retest If You Don’t Pass
Licensed Smog Inspectors
STAR Certified Station
Walk-Ins Welcome
Free Retest If You Don’t Pass
Licensed Smog Inspectors
STAR Certified
Bureau of Automotive Repair
About AB Smog Check
Monterey Park’s trusted test-only smog station
AB Smog Check is a STAR-certified, test-only smog station serving Monterey Park, Alhambra, Rosemead, El Monte, and the surrounding San Gabriel Valley. Our licensed inspectors give you an honest test, explain your results in plain terms, and send passing certificates to the DMV electronically. Because we only test, we have no reason to sell you a repair.
- Regular, diesel, hybrid, and CNG vehicles tested
- Honest results with clear next steps
- Pass or get a free retest
- Results submitted electronically to the DMV
What We Test
Smog checks, retests, and DMV-ready results
From everyday commuters to diesel trucks, hybrids, CNG vehicles, and registration renewals, AB Smog Check is a test-only station that helps Monterey Park drivers get tested, certified, and back on the road.
Regular Vehicles
Smog checks for gasoline-powered cars, SUVs, and light trucks required for most California registration renewals.
Which vehicles need a smog check?Diesel Vehicles
Diesel smog testing for qualifying trucks and SUVs, handled by experienced technicians familiar with California requirements.
Diesel smog check rulesHybrid Vehicles
Hybrid vehicle smog checks for modern emissions systems, completed with careful inspection and clear guidance.
Smog rules for hybridsCNG Vehicles
Emissions testing for compressed natural gas vehicles, performed to help keep your vehicle compliant in California.
What happens during a smog check?Failed Test Help & Retests
If your vehicle fails, we walk you through the report so you know what your repair shop needs to fix, then retest it once the work is done.
What happens if you fail?DMV Registration
We submit passing smog results electronically to the DMV so your registration renewal can move forward without delay.
Why smog checks are requiredBefore You Come In
4 tips to help you pass the first time
Most smog check failures are avoidable. A few minutes of prep before you drive in can make the difference.
Tip 01
Arrive warmed up
Drive at least 20 minutes before arriving. A warm engine runs cleaner and gives more accurate emissions readings.
Tip 02
No check engine light
A lit check engine light is an automatic fail. Get it diagnosed before your smog test to avoid a wasted trip.
Tip 03
Check your tyre pressure
Properly inflated tyres help the test run smoothly on the dynamometer and prevent a false failure reading.
Tip 04
Turn off the AC
Air conditioning puts extra load on the engine. Switch it off before pulling into the test lane for a cleaner run.
Want the full preparation guide?
Read the Prep Guide
Read our step-by-step checklist covering everything you need before your smog test.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Everything Monterey Park drivers ask us most about smog checks, STAR certification, DMV registration, and what to do if your car fails.
Call 626-280-2678
Still not sure what you need?
Call us before you come in. We’ll help you understand your DMV notice and what type of smog check your vehicle needs.
Usually not. California does not require a smog certificate when a car is transferred between parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings, spouses, or domestic partners. The DMV will ask for a Statement of Facts (REG 256) instead. If the registration is also due for renewal, a smog check may still be needed for that, so check the renewal notice or call us and we’ll tell you what applies. You can also read about which vehicles need smog checks.
Many do. California’s Consumer Assistance Program can put up to $1,450 toward emissions repairs on 1996 and newer vehicles ($1,100 for 1976 to 1995) for drivers at or below 225% of the federal poverty level. The repairs are done at a CAP-contracted test-and-repair station. As a test-only station, we can give you the smog check that documents the failure, which you need before you apply. Learn more about the CAP program.
A STAR station is certified by the Bureau of Automotive Repair to test certain vehicles, including vehicles directed by the DMV to visit a STAR station. AB Smog Check is STAR certified. Read more about STAR stations.
Yes. In California, an illuminated check engine light will usually cause an automatic smog check failure. The underlying problem needs to be diagnosed and fixed by a repair shop, and the light needs to stay off, before the vehicle can pass. Find out more about the check engine light and smog checks.
Most gasoline vehicles model year 1976 and newer need a smog check every two years at registration renewal. Gas vehicles eight model years old or newer are exempt and pay a small abatement fee instead. Your DMV renewal notice will usually tell you if a smog check is required. Read the full guide on smog check frequency.
Come in as soon as possible. Late registration fees can add up, and we submit passing results directly to the DMV so your renewal can process quickly. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Saturday, no appointment needed.
What Customers Say
Trusted by Monterey Park drivers
Fast service, fair pricing, STAR-certified testing, and a local team customers come back to year after year.
“$55 total for smog and certificate for 1996 and newer. $65 for 1976 to 1995. Cheapest I found after calling around. Fast, professional service and no upsell.”
“Quick and efficient. Showed up without an appointment and everything was done within 10 minutes. $55 for most cars. One of the better prices out there!”
“Fast efficient and reasonably priced. I had to do a STAR station smog check so this place is perfect. The local area needs more businesses like this one.”
“$55 for a smog check on my 2009 Corolla. No line at 1:30pm on a Wednesday. Took 10 mins. Will definitely be coming back.”
“Great place to get your smog check done. My go to smog check center. Quick, efficient, professional. Can’t ask for anything else.”
“I’ve been coming here for years and it’s always been a good experience. I highly recommend this shop.”
“Great place to take your vehicles! Blake pointed out an issue I needed to know about. Extremely professional and knowledgeable. Will be back for all my smog needs.”
“Always a smooth experience at this place. Fast service!”
“Great service and the owner is friendly. They only do smog checks here and are so fast. It only took 15 minutes and they send you the certificate right away.”
Hundreds of happy customers across Monterey Park and the San Gabriel Valley.
See All Google ReviewsReady to get started?
Get your smog check done today.
Walk in during business hours and we’ll get you tested, certified, and back on the road. No appointment needed, results submitted electronically to the DMV.
Fast service
STAR certified
Free retest available
501 E Garvey Ave
Monterey Park, CA 91755
Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm
Saturday 9am to 3pm · Sunday closed
Free retest if you don’t pass
Walk-ins welcome, no appointment needed