STAR rated SMOG stations

[CharlesS]

The last time the '98 XJ registration was due; I was required to take the Jeep to a Gold Shield SMOG station. Just so happens I had a long time acquantance that ran a SMOG station so I was able to get a deal....
The Jeep registration is due again, but apparently the Gold Shield stations have been replaced by STAR. The shop I had gone to for years is out of business.
Can anyone recommend a reputable/reasonable station that is STAR rated ?
Keep in mind I live in the Escondido area.....

Thanks.....

 

[hawkeye 1]

The Government loves word play, so it is actually still the same. Started out as Test Only, then Gold shield, now Star Station. That creates confusion and makes it easier for them to add and hide higher fees. That's all. :doh::roflmao::moon:

 

[CharlesS]

The Government loves word play, so it is actually still the same. Started out as Test Only, then Gold shield, now Star Station. That creates confusion and makes it easier for them to add and hide higher fees. That's all. :doh::roflmao::moon:

When I recieved the registration and the requirement for the STAR station instead of the Gold Shield; I did some reading to find out the differences if any.
STAR stations are BAR approved. They are supposed to make things easier, but as far as I can see they are trying to identify Gross Polluters.

http://www.smogtips.com/star-smog-check-station-program.cfm

 

[souske]

Because government involvement always makes things easier

 

[travisk]

STAR approved stations are reluctant to help out anyone who's vehicle tests at the margins. Every time a vehicle passes at their shop and then fails somewhere else a year or two later, they STAR shop gets a strike. Too many strikes and you're out (of business in California.)

 

[CharlesS]

This is the third time I have been required to go to one of these SPECIAL stations instead of the regular station....

 

[GSequoia]

Any AAA locations that do smog down there? I don't know what level shop they are but the downtown Los Angeles one has always worked well for me.

 

[1990JEEPXJ]

Try north county smog and repair. I believe they are a gold station and can smog anything. I just took my XJ there. I know one of the techs there. Maybe give them a call.

 

[ocean_jet]

This is the third time I have been required to go to one of these SPECIAL stations instead of the regular station....

Every time I am required to take my Jeep to a special station.

DMV says it's "random within your vehicle class"... yet I get picked every time.

 

[1990JEEPXJ]

Try north county smog and repair. I believe they are a gold station and can smog anything. I just took my XJ there. I know one of the techs there. Maybe give them a call.

Sorry I misread you post but the place I recommended is STAR certified. And with a coupon it comes out to less than $50. I just got my jeep smogged there. They're just over on San Marcos blvd

 

[Vanimal]

smogs by rita in escondido.

Star stations have webcams directly linked to the state to monitor them 24/7.

 

[Ronbo]

I go to these guys in San Marcos:

http://www.smogdepot1.com/

Save a few bucks and print their online coupon. And oddly enough, my two XJ's are 'randomly' tested as gross polluters every single time. :bs:

 

[souske]

So will you fail for wearing a shirt that say F CARB?
only if they are watching?

 

[CharlesS]

Went in for the Smog check today. Two of the three STAR stations that were supposed to be open on Saturday were not and the phones were not forwarded. Smogs be Rita was closed!!!
Arrived at SmogDepot1 and the owner looked at the Jeep; he said I don't think I can Smog your vehicle. Asked him why he had Smog checked another Jeep recently and can't do mine. Then he said, " I can try".
He looked to be uneasy climbing into the Jeep.
Passed the check with low to mid readings.

 

[Ronbo]

Arrived at SmogDepot1 and the owner looked at the Jeep; he said I don't think I can Smog your vehicle. Asked him why he had Smog checked another Jeep recently and can't do mine. Then he said, " I can try".
He looked to be uneasy climbing into the Jeep.
Passed the check with low to mid readings.

Weird, he's been testing mine for years, never said a thing like that. :confused1