This is the way it is in CA. Yes, you get money if 1) you fail at a Test Only station or you Income Qualify and there is still money in the fund. I'm guessing they will not pay if you fail at a typical repair shop that also does testing, because they fear fraud.

glenmore
1991 300CE
2000 C280
1990 LS400

I run a smog repair shop. I participate in the CAP program. His #'s told me the EGR system was the problem. As it turned out, the entire system needed work. His resulting #'s indicate the repairs took care of the problem.

I suggest getting a good aftermarket cat put on, as the 'biscuts' are coming apart inside your cat, and can cause you engine running trouble, bad gas mileage, and overheating if the pieces plug up the outlet.

The EGR system functions under a LOAD condition. It is there to lower the combustion temps to lower the Oxides of Nitrogen gasses. (pollution, Ozone killer stuff, etc). (not to be confused with laughing gas)

The CAP funds are allocated from July-June (state budget). They spend apprx $37 million per yr., which is a drop in the bucket compared to the $10 billion deficit we are running.

You can ONLY qualify upon RENEWAL of your tags, and need a smog test that year...NOT if you are tranfering the title from a sale of the vehicle.

ALL failed cars, reguardless of where the test was done, might qualify for CAP $.

ALL 'Test Only' directed cars qualify. By the way, if you look at the top of the renewal notice you will read that you can go to a Gold Shield station or Test Only station.

I suggest Gold Shield, as they are thoroughly inspected by the state for ASE techs, and honesty.

And, low income people can qualify too.

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1990 300CE. Garage kept all its life. Looks & Runs Like New. Everything works. White w/Palomino int. Pioneer 12 CD player in the boot. 17" Enkei LX-F Chrome wheels w/Falken Azenis ST-115 225-45 tires. Tinted windows. Black sports grill w/Euro clear front lamps.