Skip to main content

At Ken's Auto Center, we help our San Diego customers' cars run as cleanly and efficiently as they possibly can. We provide a range of emissions testing services to ensure that your car is running and driving its best, as well as complying with all local smog regulations. Should a problem arise with any of your vehicle's emission systems, we provide the parts and expertise to get you back on the road. Ken's Auto Center can replace mufflers/catalytic converters, refill diesel exhaust fluid, and make sure the full range of filters in your vehicle's exhaust system are working perfectly.

Regulators understand that older cars simply can't meet modern emissions standards without extensive modifications. For newer cars however, passing a smog test is a requirement of road legality. Call us at 858-578-8200 to learn more about the emissions requirements for your vehicle.

Emissions testing (also known as smog testing) is a vital part of the maintenance of your vehicle. E-tests provide your mechanic with important information about your car's engine and exhaust system. If important components, like your car's catalytic converter aren't working properly, the car isn't running as it was intended to by the manufacturer. Inefficiency costs you extra money in fuel and does unnecessary harm to the planet. Emissions testing can also affect the value of a vehicle you're trying to sell; while you can still sell a car without a valid e-test certification, you'll get more money for one that has passed the test.

There are several reasons that a car may fail its emissions test. There may be a problem with the vehicle's fuel system adding too much fuel to the air-fuel ratio required for proper combustion within the cylinders of the car's engine. This is known as "running rich" and results in the smell of gasoline from fuel passing through the engine and exhaust system without being fully burnt. Causes of this issue range from faulty fuel injectors to issues with the engine's control computer. There may also be problems with oxygen sensors or the vehicle's ignition system. At Ken's Auto Center, we use a complete set of diagnostic equipment to determine the problem and fix it quickly, explaining every step of the process to you, our valued patron. Call us at 858-578-8200 or send us an email to arrange a health check for your car's emissions system today!

Discover More About Inspection and Emissions Testing Services At Ken's Auto Center in San Diego

Discover more about Smog Check, Testing & Repair
Undercar Services
Tire Repair Services


image-people-driving

OUR REVIEWS

 (122 Reviews)
image-quotes
reviewicon

I called Ken's to get a quote on an engine rebuild. I spoke with Todd who provided a quote which was in line with a couple other shops i spoke with. The difference was that Ken's shop mentioned that my car may be eligible for repair under an exted warranty due to know design flaws that would result in engine failure. I did this and will end up saving several thousands because the rebuild will be done as a recall repair. Ken's shop will definitely be getting my business in the future. They showed they prefer to win the trust of someone even if they miss out on making money at that time. Thank you

, 04/21/2025

tire-track-image

Get free Coupons

Take advantage of these great offers!

Active Military & Veterans

15% OFF

Aprils Promotion

Spring into Savings at Kens Auto Center, Free Brake Inspections. If you need brakes Receive $20 off and Get a Prepaid Visa Rebate up to $40 on Premium Brake Packages. This is Per Axle!


Brakes
Offer Valid April 1st through April 30th, 2025 Only. Not Valid with OEM, Some Euro's and Non Standard Brakes, Make an Appointment Online for your brake inspection.

partners

ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
IDENTIFIX
O'Reilly Auto Parts
World Pac
Auto Value - CSC
BG Products
Interstate Batteries
warranty
certifiedautorepair
northamaericanwarranty
Car Care Aware