Failed CA smog test, what are my best options?

Posted by ConsciousAd7577@reddit | askcarguys | View on Reddit | 5 comments

I have a 2003 Mercedes C320 with 215k miles on it and it failed due to P0410, P0422 and P0432 error codes. I got the vehicle checked by a mechanic and he did not find any exhaust leak. So, most likely it is caused by failed catalytic convertors. The muffler shop told me that it will cost anywhere from $1800 to $3000 to replace both the catalytic convertors.

The car runs great with good acceleration, power, gives around 21 mpg and no smoke from tailpipe. Only issue is the check engine light. Based on my salary I don't qualify for CAP repair assistance. I tried deleting the codes, but they come again within 100 miles drive cycle. I wanted to keep the car for another 1 year and then donate/scrap. Kindly suggest ideas or the last option is to donate/scrap immediately as my registration expires this month.

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PPVSteve@reddit

You saw the retirement option on the CAP yea? $1000 to junk it. But gotta do it while the car has valid reg.

Other thing you could do is just pay your new years reg and not smog it. You would then have an "incomplete" registration. Then just keep any personal items out of it (so you don't have to carry them home when you get impounded) , don't park on the street and wait to get impounded. Some people go years like that.

ConsciousAd7577@reddit (OP)

Thanks! I will try both options.

SSNs4evr@reddit

slogged. you can ger 100 miles out of it before the codes, maybe buy a $40 OBD2 reader, clear the code in the parking lot before getting the car smogged.

Got to set the monitors to pass a smog check. That requires driving it.

Got it. I've never been in an area that did emissions checking.