Inspection Procedures for Unusual Vehicles

This module covers general information regarding inspection procedures for unusual vehicles that require referee inspection and approval. It is not all-inclusive and does not replace or supersede any applicable Smog Check or Automotive Repair Act laws and regulations. The Referee Program is a statewide network of inspection centers that assist motorists with unusual smog check issues. Referee Centers provides specialized inspection services that are not available at licensed smog check stations. The referee offers specialized inspection services to assist consumers with unique smog check issues in order to meet DMV registration requirements. A one-time repair cost waiver is available after a vehicle has failed a smog check and had $650 or more in emission-related repairs at a licensed smog check repair station. Sometimes, Consumers disagree with the results of their smog check. The referee is available to perform an independent evaluation for motorists who feel their vehicle was tested or repaired improperly. Consumers may call the referee call center if a smog check station refuses to inspect their vehicle. Referee centers provide assistance to consumers whose vehicles have OBD2-related issues. For example, some vehicles are not able to meet smog check monitor readiness requirements or have trouble communicating with the inspection equipment. The referee offers a hard-to-find emissions parts locator service to assist consumers whose vehicles fail smog check inspections because of missing or modified emission-related parts that are difficult to find. The vehicle may be eligible for a limited parts exemption if the referee is unable to locate the part. The referee can help consumers with vehicles that are too large to enter a smog check facility. or too wide or heavy to fit on a dynamometer. Referees can also assist consumers with vehicles that have difficulties passing a smog check inspection due to unusual emission control component configurations. Consumers with vehicles that have been modified for use by individuals with disabilities and are incompatible with the ASM test may be referred to the referee's center for a smog check inspection. These are typically vehicles that can be operated by a person from a wheelchair or those that can be driven with one or no hands. Vehicles converted to run alternative fuels are required to receive a referee inspection to ensure the conversion has been properly performed and components are approved by the Air Resources Board. The referee inspects vehicles that have had an engine installed that is different from the one originally installed. However, replacement of an engine with one that is the same make, model, and year does not require inspection of the vehicle at the referee center. In addition, the referee inspects vehicles that are imported into California that do not meet state or federal emission standards. These vehicles are classified as gray market vehicles. Specially constructed vehicles are usually home built, but in some cases are manufactured by companies that sell a vehicle without the engine and transmission. Specially constructed vehicles must pass an inspection at a referee center before DMV will issue a registration. Law enforcement may require consumers to clear a citation for tampered emission control systems at the referee center. In these cases, the vehicle must pass a smog check before the citation can be cleared. Similarly, the referee can clear a law enforcement citation for excessive noise. The referee will use a decibel level meter. to test exhaust system sound levels for the vehicle. Occasionally, DMV registration renewal notices incorrectly require an inspection of a vehicle that is exempt from the Smog Check program. The referee inspects these vehicles to verify the exemption and upon verification will issue an exempt certificate. A Bar Referee Label serves as the emission control label for specially constructed vehicles, grey market vehicles, vehicles with engine changes, alternative fueled vehicles, and other vehicles with unusual configurations. When a referee inspects these vehicles, they will affix a label similar to the one shown on this slide to the vehicle's doorpost or under the hood. The label will identify the required emission controls for the vehicle. If a Smog Check Inspector is unable to find a referee label, they are prohibited from certifying the vehicle. If a bar referee label is present, Inspectors are required to scan the label or enter the label's information when prompted by the BAR 97 Emissions Inspection System or OPD Inspection System. This is an example of a previous version of the bar referee label. It is acceptable to use this label for certification, even though it does not have a barcode. All emission control devices marked on the label must be properly installed for the vehicle to pass the visual inspection. Do not perform a smog check inspection on a vehicle that has a damaged bar label or when the information on the label doesn't match the vehicle. Instead, Refer the vehicle to the referee for re-inspection. This is an example of a first-generation bar referee label. These labels are made from aluminum with ECS information stamped into the label. They are no longer valid. Smog check inspectors must refer vehicles with a first-generation bar referee label to the referee to have the label replaced. One of the most complex and time-consuming referee inspections are for vehicles that have had an engine change. The Air Resources Board certifies vehicles for sale in California with specific engine configurations. When an engine that does not meet one of the certified configurations is installed in a vehicle, it is considered an engine change. The California Vehicle Code and BAR's engine change guidelines dictate that the vehicle's emission system cannot be downgraded. For example, the year of the engine cannot be older than the vehicle in which it's being installed. A heavy-duty engine cannot be installed in a light-duty truck or passenger car, and a light-duty truck engine cannot be installed in a passenger car. Engine changes must conform to the year, make, and model of the engine installed in the vehicle. All emission controls, including OBE components, must be properly installed and function as designed. Here's an example. of an approved engine change on a 2004 Jeep Wrangler originally equipped with a 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine. The consumer installed a 2005 Dodge 8-cylinder 5.7-liter Hemi with a full 2005 OBD2 system. The referee determined that the OBD2 system was installed and functioned as it would have in the 2005 Dodge. The referee confirmed that all the OBD2 monitors had run to completion. and that the OEM emission control components were installed and functioning properly. When we look under the hood of this same Jeep Wrangler, you will see an ARB approved air intake system designed for the 5.7 liter Hemi. Any modification to the original equipment manufacturer configuration requires an ARB approved aftermarket part. Japanese domestic market engines Commonly known as JDM engines are frequently installed in older import vehicles such as this 1999 Honda Civic. Used engines imported from Japan can be used as replacement engines as long as the engine being used has been identified as functionally identical to the original engine. Please note that all non-USA engines are prohibited for engine changes. General Motors developed an ARB certified engine package called the E-Rod engine. This system has a modified OBD2 emission system, including catalytic converters, and is certified for installation in 1995 and older vehicles. The engine is similar to the emission configuration of the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro. The E-Rod engine package has received an ARB executive order. A referee label is not required. However, the EO label must be in a conspicuous location in the engine compartment. Inspectors must ensure that the E-Rod package has been properly installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, but are not required to refer this engine change to the referee. Most consumers will obtain a referee label to eliminate confusion during a smog check inspection. This is a picture of GM's label for the E-Rod engine package. Certified by ARB. Specially constructed vehicles are usually home-built vehicles, but in some cases are manufactured by companies that sell a completed vehicle, minus the engine and transmission. Such vehicles are often known as kit cars. These vehicles must pass an inspection at a referee center before DMV will issue a California registration. These vehicles fall under one of two categories, Senate Bill 100 vehicles and non-Senate Bill 100. vehicles. The Senate Bill 100 program allows an alternative method for registering a specially constructed vehicle. Under Senate Bill 100, the vehicle owner can determine the model year of the vehicle based on what the engine configuration or vehicle body most closely resembles. Once the vehicle passes the referee inspection, the referee will attach a label identifying the determined model year and any required emission controls. Consumers must apply to DMV to obtain a Senate Bill 100 Certificate of Sequence number before making a referee appointment. The Senate Bill 100 program is limited to 500 vehicles per calendar year. Non-Senate Bill 100 vehicles are required to have an engine and emission control system for the year in which they are being registered at the DMV. On the DMV renewal notice, specially constructed vehicles are identified as SPCNS. Occasionally, consumers will bring a vehicle like the sand rail shown here to a small check station for inspection in an attempt to obtain on-road vehicle registration. If you receive an unusual vehicle that does not have a BART referee label, do not inspect the vehicle. Instead, refer the vehicle to the referee for inspection. In this example, a 1988 Toyota Cressida body is mounted on a 1983 Toyota Cressida. Toyota Truck Chassis with the 1988 Toyota Truck Engine. If you receive an unusual vehicle that does not have a bar referee label, do not inspect the vehicle. Instead, refer the vehicle to the referee for inspection. This vehicle looks like a 2006 Isuzu truck with fiberglass fenders and a bed. The vehicle is actually a 2006 Isuzu truck with a 2005 Chevrolet Colorado cab. This vehicle was titled as a specially constructed vehicle by DMV. A vehicle like this should not be inspected at a smog check station unless the vehicle has a bar referee label affixed to the body or door opening. Gray market vehicles can be identified in different ways. In general, these vehicles can often be identified based on a steering wheel location, speedometer design, labels, vehicle identification numbers, and emissions equipment. If you are asked to inspect an unusual vehicle that does not have a bar referee label, do not inspect the vehicle. Instead, refer the vehicle to the referee for inspection. The information on the following slides will help you identify gray market vehicles. Steering wheel location is a good indicator of a gray market vehicle. Some gray market vehicles have the steering wheel on the right side of the vehicle. Vehicles built for use in the United States are all left-hand drive with very few exceptions. This is a Volkswagen Beetle, originally designed for sale in Germany. The right-hand drive identifies it as a grey market vehicle. This speedometer's primary indicator is measured in kilometers per hour and is a sign that the vehicle may be a grey market vehicle. Vehicle labels are another way to determine if a vehicle is grey market. Typically, The label is located on the driver's side door post. The import tag shows that the vehicle is a General Motors vehicle that was imported into the United States by Wolf Auto Lease USA, Inc. The tag has the basic vehicle information and an assigned VIN that conforms to United States standards. Small check inspectors should not perform an inspection on these vehicles unless they find a referee label. Check to see if the vehicle is a General Motors vehicle. If the Department of Transportation or DOT label is missing or if the word void is written across it. The DOT label may be stamped for export only or may be written in a different language. Canadian vehicles are likely to have a maple leaf on the label. These examples indicate that you may be inspecting a grey market vehicle. If the vehicle does not have a referee label, it should be referred to the referee for inspection. DOT labels printed in a foreign language indicate that the vehicle is gray market. Gray market vehicles require a certificate of conformance issued by CARB after a successful laboratory test. These vehicles then receive a label from the modifier as shown below. The label states the vehicle information and all required ECS that should be present on the vehicle. Another way to identify a gray market vehicle is to identify the emission control equipment. Gray market vehicles may not have the same equipment as a U.S. model, and some or all components may be missing. Also, a 1996 or newer gray market vehicle may not have an OBD-II data link connector. When inspecting a gray market vehicle, look for a referee label, which is typically found on the driver's side doorpost or under the hood. The label will identify the required emission components, year, make, model. and engine size. The label also indicates whether the vehicle meets federal or California certification standards. If the vehicle appears to be a gray market vehicle without a referee label, refer the consumer to the referee call center at 800-622-7733. Vehicles retrofitted with alternative fuel systems on or after January 1st, 1994 must be inspected by the referee. and issued a label before a smog check station may perform any subsequent inspections. In California, vehicles can be modified to use alternative fuels. Common vehicle conversions use liquefied petroleum gas, commonly known as LPG, compressed natural gas, known as CNG, or liquid natural gas, known as LNG. This is a dual-fuel compressed natural gas or CNG conversion. On a 1994 Ford Crown Victoria, the conversion is allowed by ARB Executive Order No. B-4-44. This vehicle has an IMCO CNG mixer and PSI regulator, indicating that an aftermarket alternative fuel conversion kit was installed. If this vehicle has a referee label, it can be inspected at a licensed smog check station. If no referee label is present, Refer the consumer to the referee. This is an example of a bar referee label for the 1994 Ford Crown Victoria on the previous slide. Note that the label specifies the CNG conversion and EO number. For more information on referee services, call 800-622-7733 or visit www.asktheref.org. Thank you for viewing Module 9 of the California Small Tric Program Training Series.

The referee offers specialized inspection services to assist consumers with unique smog check issues in order to meet DMV registration requirements. A one-time repair cost waiver is available after a vehicle has failed a smog check and had $650 or more in emission-related repairs at a licensed smog check repair station. Sometimes, Consumers disagree with the results of their smog check. The referee is available to perform an independent evaluation for motorists who feel their vehicle was tested or repaired improperly.

Consumers may call the referee call center if a smog check station refuses to inspect their vehicle. Referee centers provide assistance to consumers whose vehicles have OBD2-related issues. For example, some vehicles are not able to meet smog check monitor readiness requirements or have trouble communicating with the inspection equipment. The referee offers a hard-to-find emissions parts locator service to assist consumers whose vehicles fail smog check inspections because of missing or modified emission-related parts that are difficult to find.

The vehicle may be eligible for a limited parts exemption if the referee is unable to locate the part. The referee can help consumers with vehicles that are too large to enter a smog check facility. or too wide or heavy to fit on a dynamometer. Referees can also assist consumers with vehicles that have difficulties passing a smog check inspection due to unusual emission control component configurations. Consumers with vehicles that have been modified for use by individuals with disabilities and are incompatible with the ASM test may be referred to the referee's center for a smog check inspection.

These are typically vehicles that can be operated by a person from a wheelchair or those that can be driven with one or no hands. Vehicles converted to run alternative fuels are required to receive a referee inspection to ensure the conversion has been properly performed and components are approved by the Air Resources Board. The referee inspects vehicles that have had an engine installed that is different from the one originally installed. However, replacement of an engine with one that is the same make, model, and year does not require inspection of the vehicle at the referee center.

In addition, the referee inspects vehicles that are imported into California that do not meet state or federal emission standards. These vehicles are classified as gray market vehicles. Specially constructed vehicles are usually home built, but in some cases are manufactured by companies that sell a vehicle without the engine and transmission. Specially constructed vehicles must pass an inspection at a referee center before DMV will issue a registration. Law enforcement may require consumers to clear a citation for tampered emission control systems at the referee center.

In these cases, the vehicle must pass a smog check before the citation can be cleared. Similarly, the referee can clear a law enforcement citation for excessive noise. The referee will use a decibel level meter. to test exhaust system sound levels for the vehicle. Occasionally, DMV registration renewal notices incorrectly require an inspection of a vehicle that is exempt from the Smog Check program.

The referee inspects these vehicles to verify the exemption and upon verification will issue an exempt certificate. A Bar Referee Label serves as the emission control label for specially constructed vehicles, grey market vehicles, vehicles with engine changes, alternative fueled vehicles, and other vehicles with unusual configurations. When a referee inspects these vehicles, they will affix a label similar to the one shown on this slide to the vehicle's doorpost or under the hood. The label will identify the required emission controls for the vehicle.

If a Smog Check Inspector is unable to find a referee label, they are prohibited from certifying the vehicle. If a bar referee label is present, Inspectors are required to scan the label or enter the label's information when prompted by the BAR 97 Emissions Inspection System or OPD Inspection System. This is an example of a previous version of the bar referee label. It is acceptable to use this label for certification, even though it does not have a barcode. All emission control devices marked on the label must be properly installed for the vehicle to pass the visual inspection.

Do not perform a smog check inspection on a vehicle that has a damaged bar label or when the information on the label doesn't match the vehicle. Instead, Refer the vehicle to the referee for re-inspection. This is an example of a first-generation bar referee label. These labels are made from aluminum with ECS information stamped into the label. They are no longer valid.

Smog check inspectors must refer vehicles with a first-generation bar referee label to the referee to have the label replaced. One of the most complex and time-consuming referee inspections are for vehicles that have had an engine change. The Air Resources Board certifies vehicles for sale in California with specific engine configurations.

When an engine that does not meet one of the certified configurations is installed in a vehicle, it is considered an engine change. The California Vehicle Code and BAR's engine change guidelines dictate that the vehicle's emission system cannot be downgraded. For example, the year of the engine cannot be older than the vehicle in which it's being installed. A heavy-duty engine cannot be installed in a light-duty truck or passenger car, and a light-duty truck engine cannot be installed in a passenger car.

Engine changes must conform to the year, make, and model of the engine installed in the vehicle. All emission controls, including OBE components, must be properly installed and function as designed. Here's an example.

of an approved engine change on a 2004 Jeep Wrangler originally equipped with a 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine. The consumer installed a 2005 Dodge 8-cylinder 5.7-liter Hemi with a full 2005 OBD2 system. The referee determined that the OBD2 system was installed and functioned as it would have in the 2005 Dodge. The referee confirmed that all the OBD2 monitors had run to completion.

and that the OEM emission control components were installed and functioning properly. When we look under the hood of this same Jeep Wrangler, you will see an ARB approved air intake system designed for the 5.7 liter Hemi. Any modification to the original equipment manufacturer configuration requires an ARB approved aftermarket part. Japanese domestic market engines Commonly known as JDM engines are frequently installed in older import vehicles such as this 1999 Honda Civic.

Used engines imported from Japan can be used as replacement engines as long as the engine being used has been identified as functionally identical to the original engine. Please note that all non-USA engines are prohibited for engine changes. General Motors developed an ARB certified engine package called the E-Rod engine. This system has a modified OBD2 emission system, including catalytic converters, and is certified for installation in 1995 and older vehicles.

The engine is similar to the emission configuration of the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro. The E-Rod engine package has received an ARB executive order. A referee label is not required.

However, the EO label must be in a conspicuous location in the engine compartment. Inspectors must ensure that the E-Rod package has been properly installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, but are not required to refer this engine change to the referee. Most consumers will obtain a referee label to eliminate confusion during a smog check inspection.

This is a picture of GM's label for the E-Rod engine package. Certified by ARB. Specially constructed vehicles are usually home-built vehicles, but in some cases are manufactured by companies that sell a completed vehicle, minus the engine and transmission.

Such vehicles are often known as kit cars. These vehicles must pass an inspection at a referee center before DMV will issue a California registration. These vehicles fall under one of two categories, Senate Bill 100 vehicles and non-Senate Bill 100. vehicles.

The Senate Bill 100 program allows an alternative method for registering a specially constructed vehicle. Under Senate Bill 100, the vehicle owner can determine the model year of the vehicle based on what the engine configuration or vehicle body most closely resembles. Once the vehicle passes the referee inspection, the referee will attach a label identifying the determined model year and any required emission controls.

Consumers must apply to DMV to obtain a Senate Bill 100 Certificate of Sequence number before making a referee appointment. The Senate Bill 100 program is limited to 500 vehicles per calendar year. Non-Senate Bill 100 vehicles are required to have an engine and emission control system for the year in which they are being registered at the DMV.

On the DMV renewal notice, specially constructed vehicles are identified as SPCNS. Occasionally, consumers will bring a vehicle like the sand rail shown here to a small check station for inspection in an attempt to obtain on-road vehicle registration. If you receive an unusual vehicle that does not have a BART referee label, do not inspect the vehicle. Instead, refer the vehicle to the referee for inspection.

In this example, a 1988 Toyota Cressida body is mounted on a 1983 Toyota Cressida. Toyota Truck Chassis with the 1988 Toyota Truck Engine. If you receive an unusual vehicle that does not have a bar referee label, do not inspect the vehicle.

Instead, refer the vehicle to the referee for inspection. This vehicle looks like a 2006 Isuzu truck with fiberglass fenders and a bed. The vehicle is actually a 2006 Isuzu truck with a 2005 Chevrolet Colorado cab. This vehicle was titled as a specially constructed vehicle by DMV.

A vehicle like this should not be inspected at a smog check station unless the vehicle has a bar referee label affixed to the body or door opening. Gray market vehicles can be identified in different ways. In general, these vehicles can often be identified based on a steering wheel location, speedometer design, labels, vehicle identification numbers, and emissions equipment.

If you are asked to inspect an unusual vehicle that does not have a bar referee label, do not inspect the vehicle. Instead, refer the vehicle to the referee for inspection. The information on the following slides will help you identify gray market vehicles.

Steering wheel location is a good indicator of a gray market vehicle. Some gray market vehicles have the steering wheel on the right side of the vehicle. Vehicles built for use in the United States are all left-hand drive with very few exceptions. This is a Volkswagen Beetle, originally designed for sale in Germany. The right-hand drive identifies it as a grey market vehicle.

This speedometer's primary indicator is measured in kilometers per hour and is a sign that the vehicle may be a grey market vehicle. Vehicle labels are another way to determine if a vehicle is grey market. Typically, The label is located on the driver's side door post.

The import tag shows that the vehicle is a General Motors vehicle that was imported into the United States by Wolf Auto Lease USA, Inc. The tag has the basic vehicle information and an assigned VIN that conforms to United States standards. Small check inspectors should not perform an inspection on these vehicles unless they find a referee label. Check to see if the vehicle is a General Motors vehicle. If the Department of Transportation or DOT label is missing or if the word void is written across it.

The DOT label may be stamped for export only or may be written in a different language. Canadian vehicles are likely to have a maple leaf on the label. These examples indicate that you may be inspecting a grey market vehicle.

If the vehicle does not have a referee label, it should be referred to the referee for inspection. DOT labels printed in a foreign language indicate that the vehicle is gray market. Gray market vehicles require a certificate of conformance issued by CARB after a successful laboratory test. These vehicles then receive a label from the modifier as shown below. The label states the vehicle information and all required ECS that should be present on the vehicle.

Another way to identify a gray market vehicle is to identify the emission control equipment. Gray market vehicles may not have the same equipment as a U.S. model, and some or all components may be missing. Also, a 1996 or newer gray market vehicle may not have an OBD-II data link connector. When inspecting a gray market vehicle, look for a referee label, which is typically found on the driver's side doorpost or under the hood. The label will identify the required emission components, year, make, model.

and engine size. The label also indicates whether the vehicle meets federal or California certification standards. If the vehicle appears to be a gray market vehicle without a referee label, refer the consumer to the referee call center at 800-622-7733.

Vehicles retrofitted with alternative fuel systems on or after January 1st, 1994 must be inspected by the referee. and issued a label before a smog check station may perform any subsequent inspections. In California, vehicles can be modified to use alternative fuels.

Common vehicle conversions use liquefied petroleum gas, commonly known as LPG, compressed natural gas, known as CNG, or liquid natural gas, known as LNG. This is a dual-fuel compressed natural gas or CNG conversion. On a 1994 Ford Crown Victoria, the conversion is allowed by ARB Executive Order No. B-4-44.

This vehicle has an IMCO CNG mixer and PSI regulator, indicating that an aftermarket alternative fuel conversion kit was installed. If this vehicle has a referee label, it can be inspected at a licensed smog check station. If no referee label is present, Refer the consumer to the referee. This is an example of a bar referee label for the 1994 Ford Crown Victoria on the previous slide.

Note that the label specifies the CNG conversion and EO number. For more information on referee services, call 800-622-7733 or visit www.asktheref.org. Thank you for viewing Module 9 of the California Small Tric Program Training Series.

Transcript for:Inspection Procedures for Unusual Vehicles

Transcript for:
Inspection Procedures for Unusual Vehicles