HAMILTON'S SMOG CHECK
Fast, Fair, and Done Right.
1032 First St. Novato, CA 94945
Fast Service, Best Price: We'll get you in and out quickly with a price match guarantee.
All Vehicles, All Ages: Testing vehicles from 1976 to 2025.
Open 7 Days a Week: Serving you on your schedule.
Walk in
Hours of Operation:
Mon–Fri: 7:15 AM – 6:30 PM
Sat–Sun: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Get In Touch:
415-493-8801
415-378-3252 (Call or Text)
hamiltonsmog315@gmail.com
Experience quick and convenient service at Hamilton's STAR Smog Check, your local Novato inspection station. Since 2021, we've been serving the community with efficient smog checks for all types of vehicles, including gasoline, diesel, and hybrid cars, as well as large trucks and RVs. Our certified technicians perform both STAR and non-STAR inspections, ensuring your vehicle meets all state requirements. Simply drive in for a hassle-free inspection, with most vehicles completed in under 30 minutes.
NEW: Now, we are doing smog inspection for_ heavy-duty diesel vehicles over 14,000 GVWR, 2013 and newer.
This is the new test required by CARB diesel periodic testing.
Preparing your vehicle correctly before a smog check can significantly increase your chances of passing.
For Vehicles 1996 and Newer
These steps help ensure your vehicle's emissions monitors have completed their "readiness" checks.
Complete a Drive Cycle: Over the days leading up to the test, drive your vehicle for approximately 100 miles under varied conditions (city and highway driving).
Monitor the Dashboard Lights: Before arriving at the test station, ensure the Check Engine or Service Engine Soon light is not on while the vehicle is running. If this light is illuminated, it indicates a fault in the emissions control system. The vehicle must be repaired, and a full drive cycle must be completed again before it can pass the test.
Request a Pre-Check: When you arrive at a smog testing location, ask the technician to perform a readiness check first. Many stations, including ours, offer this pre-check service for free, though policies vary, so always confirm there is no charge beforehand.
Maximize Your Chances: Following steps 1 through 3 significantly improves the likelihood of passing your smog check on the first attempt.
For Vehicles 1976–1995
Perform Basic Maintenance: Have an oil change performed and replace the air filter before the test.
Consider a Tune-Up: If your vehicle's last tune-up was more than 50,000 miles ago, it is highly recommended to schedule another one.
Check Fuel Level: Ensure the gas tank is between 1/2 and 3/4 full. Do not arrive with a nearly empty or completely topped-off tank.
Warm Up the Engine: Drive the vehicle for 30 minutes to an hour immediately before the test to bring the engine and catalytic converter up to optimal operating temperature.
Seek Professional Advice: If you have concerns about your vehicle's readiness, consider having a professional mechanic perform a thorough inspection and any necessary repairs before the official test.
Disclaimer: These are general suggestions intended to improve the probability of passing a smog check. They are not all-inclusive and do not guarantee that your vehicle will pass solely by following them.
We are a small, locally owned and family-operated business committed to making your vehicle registration renewal fast and stress-free. Our mission is to provide an welcoming environment for every client.
Smog Check Assistance: If you require help paying for a smog check, please talk to us. We would be glad to assist in any way we can.
Veteran Discount/Recognition: If you are a veteran, please let us know when you visit.
Thank You: We sincerely thank everyone for their continued support.
