A smog check inspection must be obtained in order to become eligible for the buy back program. If you are considered a low-income applicant, whether your Pontiac Vibe passes the smog test or fails it, will not make a difference. If you arento consider low-income, yoru Pontiac must fail the smog test. The check engine light being illuminated is an automatic smog check failure, but you'll need to actually have the smog test administered in order to prove the failure to the State.
The process from start to finish usually takes 2-3 months, depending on the State's backlog.
More info... California Vehicle Buy Back Program
