You've got a small problem on your hands. Your Honda Civic doesn't qualify
got government repair assistance because it's going through the sales
process. As this Honda Civic's new owner you're not eligible for the CAP
program which offers up to $500.00 in free smog check repairs.
You might want to know Section 24007 (b)(2) of the Vehicle Code states it is
the responsibility of the seller to provide a valid smog certificate at the
time of delivery of the vehicle. The seller is always responsible for the
smog certificate even if they mention the car is sold "as-is" because the
law doesn't recognize the "as-is" policy when it comes to the smog check.
You can pay for the smog repairs necessary to get your Civic to pass the
smog check and but may take the seller to Small Claims Court to recover your
costs. Although the law clearly supports the buyer, collecting on a small
claims judgment can be difficult, so the amicable solution is usually best.
