Only a few specific areas in Ohio require that vehicles undergo smog checks. Those areas include the metropolitan area of Cleveland, Ohio, and the counties of Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Median, Portage, and Summit. For Ohio mechanics seeking an automotive technician job, seeking out the smog technician’s certification is a great way to enhance a resume and increase opportunities to find mechanic jobs.
Ohio smog technician qualifications
In order to perform inspections in a location where smog checks takes place in Ohio, a mechanic or a repair facility must fill out an application which can be downloaded online. Mechanics are required to maintain an ASE Level 1 certification to maintain their emissions inspection certification in the state of Ohio.
Smog technician salary
Becoming a licensed smog technician can help a mechanic build experience in their career and have a well-rounded resume. One of the things that many mechanics wants to know is how a smog technician certification may change or enhance their auto mechanic salary. According to Salary Expert, smog technicians receive an average annual salary of $23,025 in Ohio.
Ohio smog inspection requirements
The following types of vehicles are required to undergo smog checks, or emissions tests every other year in the required areas. Models manufactured in even-numbered years must be tested in even-numbered years, and models manufactured in odd-numbered years must be tested in odd-numbered years.
All gasoline-powered vehicles and diesel-powered vehicles less than 10,000 pounds
All flex-fuel and hybrid vehicles less than 10,000 pounds
Within these three requirements, vehicles must be newer than 25 years old to be required to undergo smog checks. Brand new vehicles are exempt from testing until four years after the manufacturing date.
Smog check procedures
The state of Ohio uses the OBD-II test for all vehicles newer than 1996 (or any diesel vehicles newer than 1997). Auto service technicians will also perform a visual inspection of the smoke emissions from the tailpipe. These two tests can determine if a vehicle is releasing too much pollution into the atmosphere. Finally, a certified smog tester in Ohio will inspect the gas cap, to ensure that is properly installed. A loose gas cap can cause vapor to be released from the tank.
While technicians must apply for a certification to perform smog checks, there are some self-service kiosks around the counties where smog checks are required. Vehicle owners can perform the smog check themselves at these stations if they prefer.
If you’re already a certified mechanic and you’re interested in working with YourMechanic, submit an online application for an opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.
