Not sure of any details, but Cal. smog laws have provisions for a one time California payout of $500.00 for repairs for failed smog. There are restrictions and limitations, but not sure what thet are. Might be worth looking into. Bob
According to DMV:
44017. (a) Except as otherwise provided in this section or Section 44017.1, a motor vehicle owner shall qualify for a repair cost waiver only after expenditure of not less than four hundred fifty dollars ($450) for repairs, including parts and labor.
(b) The limit established pursuant to subdivision (a) shall not become operative until the department issues a public notice declaring that the program established pursuant to Section 44010.5 is operational in the relevant geographical areas of the state, or until the date that testing in those geographic areas is operative using loaded mode test equipment, as defined in this article, whichever occurs first. Prior to that time, the following cost limits shall remain in effect:
(1) For motor vehicles of 1971 and earlier model years, fifty dollars ($50).
(2) For motor vehicles of 1972 to 1974, inclusive, model years, ninety dollars ($90).
(3) For motor vehicles of 1975 to 1979, inclusive, model years, one hundred twenty-five dollars ($125).
(4) For motor vehicles of 1980 to 1989, inclusive, model years, one hundred seventy-five dollars ($175).
(5) For motor vehicles of 1990 to 1995, inclusive, model years, three hundred dollars ($300).
(6) For motor vehicles of 1996 and later model years, four hundred fifty dollars ($450).
