1995 Toyota Corolla Cracked Manifold

How do I successfully negotiate smog check expenses?

1. I am utterly broke. I cannot afford retail, period.

2. I have been told I will fail smog due to a cracked manifold but there are no obvious symptoms like smoke or noise. There is mild roughness.

3. If I fail I will have to apply to CAP.

4. The free backyard mechanic who very recently worked on my engine did not mention any smog issues. Said I could smog it. Also did not replace the manifold. Since I can't afford ANY front end costs except ONE cheapy smog check, I was hoping to leverage the repair costs to get a low smog price, free retest, and free diagnosis with repair. I have some test only coupons and one test and repair coupon (that shop can't do evap just now).

How do I approach this request with the no-coupon shop to get what I need?

Answer:

There is no way around the smog check inspection fee. We recommend finding the lowest price coupon you can find in your area and have your Toyota smog checked. No need to worry about a free retest. If applying for CAP a re-test will not be needed. If you can find a pass or don't pay even better. Although, keep ing mind with a pass or free re-test station, knowing your vehicle will fail the smog check if a smog station realizes this before the smog check they may refuse to inspect your Toyota.

Once your Toyota fails the smog test, go ahead and apply for CAP. CAP will pay the STAR Smog Check and Repair station of your choice the fee required to diagnose your Toyota's smog check failure and pay for repairs required to get your Toyota to pass the smog check so long as the repairs don't cost more than $500.00 (including the diagnosis fee).

posted by SmogTips Support