The answer is a resoudning “no” according to a local smog test facility. That’s what the tech told me as I waited for my test to complete. He was sharing his desire for a new job and the thanklessness of his customers.

Most of the people he sees have cars 10+ years old and the owners are seniors. They’re paranoid about the pollution testing system in general, are financially tight, and don’t understand the process. They’re unhappy to be there but are forced to by California law.

During his five years working there not a single person has volunteered for a smog test because they were concerned about their impact on the environment. Even the eco-friendly bunch don’t bother until their California registration is due.

If you consider that smog checks are required every couple of years (based on the age and type of vehicle), a car might be polluting for an entire year before the test is required. But it seems that no one bothers until they’re forced to.

Trackback URI | Comments RSS