Let’s be real for a second. Nobody actually enjoys getting a smog check. It’s one of those "adulting" chores that usually involves sitting in a plastic chair in a hot garage while staring at a 5-year-old magazine. But if you live in Orange County or the Inglewood area, you've probably seen the name Andy Test Only Center pop up on your DMV renewal notice or Google Maps.
There’s a specific reason why "Test Only" is in the name. It isn't just a branding choice. In the convoluted world of California emissions, where you go determines exactly how much of your Saturday is about to be wasted.
The Weird Logic of "Test Only" Stations
Most people think a smog shop is just a smog shop. Wrong. California splits these places into different categories. You have "Test and Repair" stations that can fix your car if it fails, and then you have places like Andy Test Only Center.
Since they don't do repairs, they have zero incentive to "find" a problem with your car just to sell you a $400 sensor. Honestly, that’s the biggest draw. You’re getting an unbiased inspection. They just want to hook up the OBD-II, run the sensors, and get you moving. If you pass, great. If you fail, they give you the paperwork and you’re free to go to your own trusted mechanic.
It’s a cleaner transaction. No upselling. No "hey, while we're under the hood, your belts look frayed" conversations.
Why the DMV Specifically Sent You There
If your registration renewal notice has STAR Station written in bold, the state is basically forcing your hand. Not every local gas station can handle a STAR-directed smog check. Andy Test Only Center is STAR certified, which means they meet the higher performance standards set by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR).
Why did the DMV pick you? Usually, it's one of three things:
- Your car is part of a "high emitter" profile (older models).
- Your specific make and model has a history of failing.
- It was just your turn in the random data pool.
Regardless of the reason, you can't just go anywhere. STAR stations are monitored more strictly by the state to ensure they aren't letting gross polluters slide.
What Actually Happens During the Test?
You roll up to the shop—either the Orange County location or the Inglewood spot. You don't usually need an appointment, though calling ahead is a smart move if you're on a tight lunch break.
The technician is going to do a three-part dance with your car:
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- The Visual Inspection: They’re looking for missing or modified parts. If you installed a "cold air intake" you bought off a random website that isn't CARB-compliant, you’re going to have a bad time.
- The Functional Test: They check the gas cap, the EGR valve, and—most importantly—the "Check Engine" light.
- The OBD-II Data Link: For cars made in 2000 or newer, they plug into your car’s computer. This is where most people fail. If you recently unhooked your battery to fix something, your car’s "readiness monitors" are reset.
Pro tip: If you just cleared a code or changed a battery, drive the car for about 100 miles before going to Andy's. If the monitors aren't "ready," the machine will automatically reject the test. It’s not the tech being mean; it’s the software.
The Locations: OC vs. Inglewood
There is some slight confusion because there are multiple "Andy" shops.
In Orange County, the Andy Test Only Center (often reached at 714-636-0019) focuses heavily on that quick, 20-minute turnaround. They handle everything from 1976 models to the newest hybrids.
Then you have Andy's Smog Test Only Center in Inglewood (3101 West Imperial Hwy). This location is a bit of a local staple. Interestingly, they also offer 24-hour towing. It's a weird combo—smog checks by day, towing by night—but it works. If you're stuck on the 405, they’re probably the ones coming to get you.
Avoiding the "Automatic Fail" Trap
I’ve seen people fail for the dumbest reasons. Honestly, it’s heartbreaking.
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Check your dashboard before you pull into the lot. Is that little yellow engine icon glowing? If yes, turn around. A lit Check Engine light is an automatic failure in California. Period. Don't waste your money on the test fee until you've scanned the code and fixed the underlying issue.
Also, make sure your car is warmed up. A "cold" catalytic converter doesn't perform as well as one that's been running for 15 minutes. If you live two blocks away, take a quick lap on the freeway before pulling into the bay.
Is it Worth the Trip?
If you value your time, yeah. Most people report being in and out of Andy’s in under 20 minutes.
The price is usually "middle of the road"—somewhere between $40 and $70 depending on the current specials and the certificate fee ($8.25 is the standard state fee added to the base price).
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One thing to keep in mind: if you have a massive RV or a heavy-duty diesel over 14,000 lbs, the rules are different in 2026. Most "Test Only" centers are geared toward passenger cars and light trucks.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Visit:
- Verify the Address: Make sure you're heading to the specific "Andy" shop listed on your coupon or Google search, as there are several similarly named businesses.
- Check Your Light: If the Check Engine light is on, go to a repair shop first, not a test-only center.
- Warm it Up: Drive for at least 15 minutes at highway speeds before your arrival to ensure the sensors are peaking.
- Bring the Paperwork: While they can usually look up your VIN, having that DMV renewal notice makes the data entry way faster.
- Ask for the "Pass or Don't Pay" (If available): Some shops offer a "free re-test" if you fail. It’s always worth asking if they have a current special for that.
Staying compliant with California’s emissions laws is a headache, but picking a shop that doesn't try to upsell you on a new muffler makes the process a lot less painful.