BAR On-Board Diagnostic Inspection System FAQ

Important! The BAR On-Board Diagnostic Inspection System (BAR-OIS) software has been rebranded the California Vehicle Inspection System (Cal-VIS). Cal-VIS will support both Smog Check inspections and, upon implementation of the Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection Program later this year, vehicle safety systems inspections.

The Cal-VIS rebrand will begin with the 23.3 server version update that will roll out to stations beginning January 8, 2024.

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the BAR-OIS

Equipment

What are the equipment requirements for the BAR-OIS?

A BAR-OIS consists of a BAR-certified Data Acquisition Device and other off-the-shelf equipment, including a computer, biometric palm scanner equipment kit, bar code scanner, and printer. The BAR-OIS uses the California Vehicle Inspection System software to communicate with BAR's central database through an internet connection. The bar code scanner is used to input technician information, the vehicle identification number (VIN), and DMV renewal information. The printer provides a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) containing inspection results for motorists and a Smog Check Certificate of Compliance number for passing vehicles.

What are the minimum standards for the off-the-shelf equipment?

Effective July 5, 2023, all BAR-OIS computers must run a supported Microsoft Windows operating system version. BAR-OIS computers running an unsupported operating system version on and after July 5, 2023, will not be able to perform Smog Check inspections. Windows versions 7, 8.0, and 8.1 are currently not supported by Microsoft. Windows versions 10 and 11 are supported.

A biometric palm scanner device, model FAT13FPS01, must be connected to the BAR-OIS computer via USB cable. Biometric equipment kits (part number BAR BAK) are sold by authorized resellers. Kits contain a biometric palm scanner device, hand cradle, and USB cable.

The bar code scanner may be wired or wireless, but must be capable of connecting to the computer (e.g., USB connection, Bluetooth), must be compatible with the Microsoft Windows operating system you are using, and able to at least scan 1-d (linear type) bar codes. Optionally, a 2-d (square type) bar code scanner may be used for late model-year vehicles. Among the many models available, BAR successfully used the following bar code scanners in its laboratory testing of certified DAD units:

  • 1-d wired type models: Honeywell MS9520, Symbol LS2208, Symbol LS4208
  • 1-d wireless type model: Motorola LI4278
  • 2-d wired type models: Wasp WDI-4500, Tera D5100Y, Xtiot XT6603B, Datalogic QuickScan I QD2430, and HP4430
  • 2-d wireless type model: Tera HW002

The printer may be any technology (laser, ink, etc.), compatible with the Microsoft Windows operating system used, and use 8½ inch by 11-inch plain paper. The printer may have a wired or wireless connection to the BAR-OIS computer.

NOTE: BAR only supports issues related to the California Vehicle Inspection System software. You are responsible for any issues related to off-the-shelf equipment. DAD vendors are required to support issues related to their DAD. DAD vendors may also support issues related to off-the-shelf equipment acquired from them.

What type of internet connection is required to run the California Vehicle Inspection System software?

Dial-up connections are not able to transmit data quickly enough, and therefore are no longer acceptable. A reliable internet connection is crucial to ensure your ability to perform inspections. The California Vehicle Inspection system software requires a continuous internet connection when performing a Smog Check inspection. If your internet is interrupted during an inspection, that inspection may resume when the internet connection is restored or may result in an aborted inspection and require restarting the inspection, depending on how long the internet connection has failed. Please consider the following when making decisions regarding your internet connection service:

  • A faster internet connection will increase the speed of the California Vehicle Inspection System software. Typically the connection speed claimed by most internet service providers is the maximum speed possible. Actual speed may be less.
  • The connection speed decreases when the same internet connection is shared with other shop applications (e.g., Mitchell On-Demand, ALLDATA, parts suppliers, etc.).
  • The connection speed decreases when the internet is shared with customers for Wi-Fi connectivity.

Does the BAR-OIS need a dedicated phone line or internet connection?

No. The BAR-OIS does not need a dedicated phone line or dedicated internet connection. The BAR-OIS may share an internet connection with other devices in the station.

Can the BAR-OIS be used as a mobile device outside of the station?

No. The BAR-OIS may only be used within a building at the address of a licensed Smog Check station. California Code of Regulations section 3340.15 (a) states, "The testing and repairing of vehicles shall be performed only in a work area of the station that has been approved by the bureau during the licensing inspection." Section 1.8.3 of the Smog Check Manual states, "The BAR-97 EIS and the BAR-OIS shall be used within a building. The BAR-97 EIS and the BAR-OIS shall not be used in an environment that would subject them to excessive heat, cold, dust, or moisture."

Data Acquisition Device (DAD)

What is a Data Acquisition Device?

A Data Acquisition Device (DAD) is an On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) scan tool that, when requested by the California Vehicle Inspection System software, retrieves OBD data from the vehicle. The DAD connects between the BAR-OIS computer and the vehicle's diagnostic link connector (DLC). The DAD is the only component of the BAR-OIS.

Where do I obtain a DAD?

DADs are available for purchase, rent, or lease from a BAR-certified DAD vendor. Find a vendor >

How much does a DAD cost?

BAR does not have the authority to control equipment cost. The cost of equipment is determined solely by the DAD vendors, or third party suppliers. Information supplied by the DAD vendors suggests that BAR-certified DADs are available for about $1,500 depending on options (e.g., wired vs. wireless, etc.).

Are wireless DADs available?

Yes. The DAD vendors are required to sell a hardwired DAD, but may also offer a wireless product. Please contact the vendors for additional information on their products.

Can multiple DADs be used on one computer?

No. Each DAD must be connected to its own computer as the California Vehicle Inspection System software will only work with one DAD at a time.

Can the DAD cable be extended?

No. DAD cables are considered part of the certified DAD package. They cannot be modified or extended. Please check with the DAD vendor for their available certified cable length.

Can the DAD connect to the BAR-97 EIS?

No. If a BAR-OIS is incorporated into a BAR-97 EIS cabinet, the BAR-OIS must have a separate computer from the BAR-97 EIS computer, and the BAR-97 EIS tamper systems must remain intact. Currently, there is no BAR-97 EIS that has a provision for the additional BAR-OIS equipment incorporated into the cabinet.

Is a DAD disclosure agreements required when renting/leasing equipment?

No. DAD disclosure agreements are no longer required to be submitted to BAR.

Biometric Palm Scanner

In this section:

(Updated January 8, 2024)

General Information


What is a biometric device?

A biometric device uses a human attribute like a palm vein scan, fingerprint, or face image to verify a person’s identity for the purposes of accessing sensitive data, a secure area, or an electronic device. Biometric devices such as palm scanners are used across many industries.

Why were biometric palm scanners added to the Smog Check Program?

On August 15, 2022, the Office of Administrative Law approved and filed with the Secretary of State BAR’s regulatory action concerning Smog Check equipment security and fraud prevention. The regulations require, in part, Smog Check inspectors to use a biometric palm scanner instead of a password to log in and perform a Smog Check on the BAR-OIS. The regulations took effect on October 1, 2022.

Below is a timeline of important biometric implementation activities:

  • September 19, 2022: Biometric enrollment online appointment scheduling begins
  • October 1, 2022: Biometric enrollment begins
  • March 20, 2023: BAR-OIS biometric software update released
  • May 1, 2023: Mandatory start date for biometric palm scanner usage

Will biometric palm scanner usage be required for BAR-97 EIS inspections?

Information about biometric palm scanner usage for BAR-97 EIS inspections will be shared at a future date.

Enrollment


What is biometric enrollment?

Biometric enrollment is the process by which licensed Smog Check inspectors establish with BAR a palm data profile to perform BAR-OIS inspections. Biometric enrollment is conducted at a BAR field office and takes about 15 minutes to complete.

Contact BAR Field Office Support for enrollment dates and times.

What happens during biometric enrollment?

During biometric enrollment, BAR staff will:

Be sure to bring the following items with you to the field office:

  • A valid, government-issued photo identification document (other than an inspector badge), such as a driver license, passport, or military identification
  • A proof of identification document showing your legal name and signature such as a social security card or credit card
  • Your BAR-issued inspector badge (if received prior to enrollment) and inspector license number

The name on your Smog Check inspector license must match your legal name before you can enroll. To request a name correction on your license, submit a completed Change of Address and/or Name form to BARLicensingApplications@dca.ca.gov.

What happens if one or both of my hands cannot be scanned at the time of enrollment?

You still must complete the biometric enrollment process. BAR field staff will make reasonable accommodations based upon specific circumstances.

Equipment Kit


What is included in a biometric equipment kit?

A biometric equipment kit (part number BAR BAK) contains the following:

  • Fujitsu palm vein scanner sensor (model number FAT13FPS01)
  • Hand cradle
  • USB cable

Where do I purchase a biometric equipment kit?

Purchase a kit from any of the following authorized resellers:

Is one biometric equipment kit required per BAR-OIS?

Yes. The Smog Check Manual requires one biometric equipment kit per BAR-OIS.

How much does a biometric equipment kit cost?

BAR does not have the authority to control equipment cost. Information provided by the resellers suggests kits cost between $400 and $500 depending on the reseller. Some resellers may have an option to add the kit to a BAR-OIS rental/lease agreement. Contact the reseller for additional information.

Why should I buy my biometric equipment kit from a reseller instead of some other vendor?

Purchase your kit from an authorized reseller to ensure you receive the correct equipment. The reseller will also add one year to the normal equipment warranty period.

When will I receive my biometric equipment kit?

Shipping and delivery time frames depend on reseller inventory. Some resellers have inventory now, others will be getting inventory in batches as units are manufactured. Contact the reseller for more information.

Is the biometric palm scanner reliable and durable?

BAR use found the biometric palm scanner to be both reliable and durable. The scanner has a several year life expectancy.

Does the biometric palm scanner work through grease or gloves?

No. Before using the scanner, ensure your hand is clean and uncovered.

The biometric palm scanner is not recognizing my palm. What should I do?

  • Check that your hand is clean. Use quick wipes to clean your hand before using the scanner.
  • Remove anything covering your palm such as gloves or Band-Aids.
  • Check that the scanner lens is clean, per the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Check that the sensor (in the bowl of the cradle) is clean. If necessary, use a dry, soft cloth to clean the sensor.
  • Position your hand flat in the cradle with your palm directly over the sensor. Your wrist should be resting on the cradle with your fingers in the guides.
  • Try repositioning your palm slightly forward, back, and side to side.
  • If one hand does not work, try using the other hand.

For more information, watch a short video providing tips for improving authentication success using biometric palm scanners.

The biometric palm scanner is not working. What should I do?

  • Confirm you have completed the biometric enrollment process.
  • Check that the scanner is connected to the USB cable and the cable is plugged into the computer.
  • Make sure your California Vehicle Inspection System software is up-to-date.

If the scanner still will not work, contact the reseller.

Can I use my BAR-OIS password if the biometric palm scanner stops working?

No. To continue to perform BAR-OIS inspections, replace the biometric palm scanner with a functional scanner.

What do I do if the characteristics of my hand change sufficiently that I am no longer able to get past the biometric security to perform a Smog Check inspection?

Either hand may be used to perform inspections. If both hands cannot be scanned and the equipment is working, contact a BAR field office for assistance.

BAR-OIS Biometric Software Update


When was the BAR-OIS biometric software update released?

The 22.4 BAR-OIS biometric software update necessary for biometric authentication was released to all active BAR-OIS units in March 2023.

When does the California Vehicle Inspection software prompt for biometric use?

The California Vehicle Inspection software prompts inspectors to scan their left or right palm at the beginning and end of every inspection.

When is a California Vehicle Inspection System password required?

A California Vehicle Inspection System password is required to download the California Vehicle Inspection System software and can be used when logging in to perform non-inspection functions.

Start Up and Support

What steps do I take to start using my BAR-OIS?

If your DAD vendor does not supply and install a complete BAR-OIS solution that is pre-configured with the California Vehicle Inspection System software and ready for use, the following steps will need to be taken to set up your DAD.

  1. Connect the off-the-shelf equipment to the computer. The bar code scanner may need to be programmed for use with your computer.
  2. Connect the computer to the internet.
  3. Load the DAD vendor's software and connect the DAD to the computer. Follow the DAD vendor's installation instructions to ensure the DAD is communicating properly with the computer. If the DAD is unable to communicate with the computer, consult your DAD vendor for technical support.
  4. Access the internet using the computer to view BAR's BAR-OIS Registration and OIS Software Download videos as well as the California BAR-OIS: User Guide. These materials explain how to create a California California Vehicle Inspection System account and set up the California California Vehicle Inspection System software. A station wall license, technician wall license, technician BAR-97 EIS password, and a unique email address are necessary before beginning.
  5. Create a California California Vehicle Inspection System software account by visiting the California Vehicle Inspection System Registration and Download website. Your DAD vendor will notify you when your DAD has been unlocked and will then provide you the website address for registration and download. For assistance with the California Vehicle Inspection System software, use BAR's online training or contact the BAR Industry Help Desk by phone at (866) 860-8509 or email at BAR.IndustryHelpDesk@dca.ca.gov.
  6. Download and install the California Vehicle Inspection System software on your computer. This may take several minutes if the process also installs additional .net software from Microsoft.

Are training resources available for the California Vehicle Inspection System software?

Training materials are available on the BAR-OIS page and within the California Vehicle Inspection System software under the "Help" menu. DAD vendors may or may not offer training programs/services for various users of the BAR-OIS.

Who supports the California Vehicle Inspection System software?

BAR's Industry Help Desk is available to answer questions about the California Vehicle Inspection System software. Contact the BAR Industry Help Desk by phone at (866) 860-8509 or email at BAR.IndustryHelpDesk@dca.ca.gov.

Who may service the DAD equipment?

Per the BAR OBD Inspection System Data Acquisition Device Specification, the DAD vendor is required to provide, at a minimum, the following:

  • Technical support from 8am to 5pm via toll-free phone number Monday through Friday (excluding State holidays).
  • Respond, during the hours above, to DAD customer inquiries within two (2) business hours of receipt of request.
  • Support via a website that offers tips on how to diagnose DAD problems, frequently asked questions about the DAD, and how to resolve DAD incidents.

Consult with DAD vendors on their intended service solutions; some may offer additional service.

How long is the DAD warranty?

The DAD vendor will provide at least a one (1) year warranty for their DAD at no cost to the station, per the BAR OBD Inspection System Data Acquisition Device Specification.

Who may service the off-the-shelf equipment?

Since this equipment is not BAR-certified, the station or any other company the station chooses may service this equipment. Stations may wish to consult with their vendor regarding service solutions.

Who do I contact about internet connection issues or California Vehicle Inspection System connection issues?

The California Vehicle Inspection System software contains internet check indicators located under File, and within the Self-Diagnostics screen. The "internet Connection:" indicator shows when the BAR-OIS computer is on the internet by connecting to a generic web page. The "BAR-OIS Connection:" indicator shows when the BAR-OIS computer is on the internet and able to connect to the VID. A green-colored indicator means the connection is active, a red-colored indicator means the connection is down, and a gray-colored indicator means the software is unable to check connectivity.

Contact your internet provider to resolve internet connection issues. Contact the BAR Industry Help Desk by phone at (866) 860-8509 or email at BAR.IndustryHelpDesk@dca.ca.gov for VID connection issues.

Software

Does the California Vehicle Inspection System software advise inspectors which vehicles need a tailpipe test?

No. Inspectors must use the Smog Check Manual to determine which vehicles require a BAR-97 EIS inspection and which vehicles require a BAR-OIS inspection.

Does the California Vehicle Inspection System software ever pass a vehicle but not issue a certificate?

The California Vehicle Inspection System software will not issue a certificate of compliance for a passing vehicle when the software detects the DAD changing to a different DAD during the inspection, or when the vehicle does not need a certificate (e.g., government fleet and military personnel not registered in California). Also, the California Vehicle Inspection System software will not issue certificates on vehicles requiring a BAR-97 EIS inspection (e.g., 1999 and older model-year gasoline powered vehicles, or vehicles over 14,000 GVWR).

What information does the California Vehicle Inspection System software retrieve from the vehicle?

The DAD will only retrieve data relevant to conducting a Smog Check inspection. All OBD data that the vehicle indicates it supports and is requested by the Smog Check inspection function will be retrieved. Sensitive data, such as vehicle location (GPS) and accident-related information (air bag deployment), will not be retrieved.

Does the BAR-OIS use a Vehicle Lookup Table (VLT) similar to the BAR-97 EIS?

No. The BAR-OIS does not use a Vehicle Lookup Table (VLT). Vehicle Identification Number VIN-based information is used to activate any vehicle test exceptions or special test sequences.

Is a training mode available?

No, a training mode is not available. Refer to training materials available on on BAR's website and within the California Vehicle Inspection System software itself. Alternately, new users can perform an inspection, but then choose not to issue a certificate at the end. This exercise is still considered a pre-test and the station will be charged an electronic transaction fee. Some DAD vendor solutions may offer 'Manual Mode' functionality for the DAD, separately from the California Vehicle Inspection System software. Consult with the DAD vendor for options.

Can I run other software on the BAR-OIS computer?

Yes. Other software may be used on the BAR-OIS computer. Since the computer used in the BAR-OIS is not a device, the station owner may use the computer at his/her discretion. However, it is the owner's responsibility to maintain their computer and ensure there are no conflicts with the California Vehicle Inspection System software. You should always keep anti-virus software current on your computer.

Can I use the Smog Check certificates from my BAR-97 on my BAR-OIS?

No, you must purchase a new book of Smog Check certificates for your BAR-OIS.

I'm trying to set up automatic Smog Check certificate reordering on my BAR-OIS. Why aren't Smog Check certificates being ordered?

The very first order using the California Vehicle Inspection System software must be done manually. After that, if you have setup automatic Smog Check certificate reordering, the reorder will be automatic.

I'm trying to register my station, but the email verification code sent to validate my email is expired. How long is the verification code valid?

The email verification code is only valid for 15 minutes for security reasons. Some email providers may delay or not deliver the email from the registration process. If you are experiencing this delay, we recommend that you create a free email account using a service such as Gmail, Yahoo, etc.

I'm trying to download the California Vehicle Inspection System software, but I keep getting an error page that says that I am not authorized to view the page. What station staff are authorized to download the software?

Downloading of the California Vehicle Inspection System software is reserved for station owners and station managers.

I am a station owner but I keep getting an error page that says that I am not authorized to view the page. Why am I getting this message?

Make sure that you are using your station owner account. Station owners who also have an inspector/technician account may only access certain pages when logged into their station owner account.

Who is allowed to perform station owner functions in the California Vehicle Inspection System software?

The station owner on file with BAR's Licensing Program can perform the functions of station owner in the California Vehicle Inspection System software. Station owners wishing to designate a new station owner in the software should contact BAR Field Office Support for onsite owner verification to approve the change. Note that changing the station owner role does NOT update the station ownership with BAR Licensing.

What California Vehicle Inspection System software functions are available to an inspector/technician who has also been assigned the station manager role?

An inspector/technician who has been assigned the role of station manager has access to the following Manage Station functions:

  1. Station Settings - controls the hours a BAR-OIS is allowed to operate and the number of VIR's printed
  2. OBD Inspection Systems - controls the modification or creation of a BAR-OIS
  3. Certificates - controls the ability to purchase and view certificate inventory
  4. Reports - controls the ability to see reported data, including number of inspections, inspectors, technicians, inventory, certificate orders, and BAR-OIS
  5. View Station Information - displays the station and station license information
  6. Update Contact Information - update the station information printed on the VIR

What functions are permitted for each user/station role?

The California Vehicle Inspection System software restricts certain functions or options to specific authorized users/station roles. A warning message will display when users attempt to access an unauthorized function. Refer to the following table for a complete listing of user roles and functions/options.

NOTE: If someone other than the true owner of the station is given the permission to use the owner role, they will have the ability to manage the station and purchase certificates.

Function/Option Junior Admin Senior Admin Manager Owner Technician
Perform Inspection No No No No Yes*
Repair Only Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Reprint VIR Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
DAD Diagnostics No No No No Yes*
Manage Station: 1 - Station Settings No Yes Yes Yes No
Manage Station: 2 - OBD Inspection Systems No No Yes Yes No
Manage Station: 3 - Certificates No Yes Yes Yes No
Manage Station: 4 - Reports No No Yes Yes No
Manage Station: 5 - View Station Information No No Yes Yes No
Manage Station: 6 - Update Contact Information No No Yes Yes No
Manage Staff No No Yes Yes No
Manage Messages Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Manage Account - All Options Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

* EO (Inspectors) only

The California Vehicle Inspection System software update will not download. What should I do?

Internet connectivity issues may be preventing your computer from downloading the California Vehicle Inspection System software update. Perform one or more of the following steps to help resolve any connectivity issues before reattempting to download the software update:

  • Verify your internet connection using the diagnostic tools built into the California Vehicle Inspection System software by selecting FILE > SELF DIAGNOSTICS. A green-colored indicator means the connection is active, a red-colored indicator means the connection is down, and a gray-colored indicator means the California Vehicle Inspection System software is unable to check connectivity. If a red or gray-colored indicator is displayed, select RETRY to refresh the indicator and to determine if the connection has been restored
  • Protect your internet Wi-Fi connection. The connection speed decreases when the internet connection is shared with other staff and customers for Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Connect your BAR-OIS to your router using a network cable instead of using your Wi-Fi connection
  • Reboot your computer, modem, and router

If you continue to experience internet connectivity problems after performing these steps, contact your internet service provider for further assistance.

NOTE:

  • Your computer may require a Windows administrator password to complete the download. If you acquired your computer from a DAD vendor, you may need to enter the administrator password set by the DAD vendor. If necessary, contact your DAD vendor for this password information
  • Firewall and/or virus scan software may need to be disabled to perform the download. Contact a computer service company if you require assistance with any hardware issues
  • In extreme circumstances, it may be necessary to remove the software from your computer and reload the software from the California Vehicle Inspection System Registration and Download website. Be advised, station owners and station managers are the only users authorized to download the software. (NOTE: Software updates may be downloaded by all users.)

Cost

How much does a complete BAR-OIS cost?

BAR does not have the authority to control equipment cost. Information provided by the DAD vendors suggests complete BAR-OIS packages, including the DAD and off-the-shelf-equipment are available for purchase between $4,000 and $5,000 depending on the DAD vendor and equipment. Shops may build their own BAR-OIS by purchasing off-the-shelf equipment and obtaining a BAR-certified DAD from a DAD vendor or third party supplier.

Is there a cost for the California Vehicle Inspection System software?

No. The California BAR-OIS software runs on a state-controlled server and is accessed using the station's internet connection, similar to online banking.

Do stations have to pay an electronic transaction fee when conducting a BAR-OIS inspection?

Yes. Similar to the current BAR-97 EIS, an electronic transaction fee is charged each time the BAR-OIS is used to perform an inspection. The fee is currently the same as the BAR-97 EIS inspection fee and goes directly to BAR's contractor who developed and maintains the Smog Check central database.

How can Smog Check certificates be purchased?

Books of 50 Smog Check certificates may be purchased electronically within the California Vehicle Inspection System software, or may be purchased manually through BAR Cashiering. The software restricts the purchase of these certificates to the Station Owner, the Station Manager, and the Senior Administrator.

Does the state control the cost of a BAR-OIS inspection?

No. Smog Check inspection cost is set independently by stations.

Can I charge different rates for the BAR-97 and BAR-OIS inspection?

Yes, as long as the customer is informed prior to beginning the inspection. Inspection prices also must be posted.

Pass-Fail Standards

What are the OBD inspection failure criteria?

Section 3340.42.2 of the California Code of Regulations lists possible failure criteria for OBD II-equipped vehicles. The failure criteria include the following:

  • MIL does not illuminate when the ignition is on and the engine is off
  • MIL illuminates continuously or flashes with the engine running
  • OBD system reports the MIL as commanded on
  • OBD system reports a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)
  • OBD system data indicates the system has not yet been sufficiently operated to determine the presence or absence of a DTC
  • OBD system does not communicate with the EIS or BAR-OIS
  • OBD system data is inappropriate for the vehicle being tested
  • OBD system data does not match the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or an Air Resources Board (ARB) exempted OBD software configuration
  • OBD system reports incomplete readiness monitor(s) as specified below:
    • Gasoline-powered vehicles model-years 1996 through 1999 with more than one (1) incomplete monitor
    • Gasoline-powered vehicles model-years 2000 and newer with any incomplete monitors, excluding the evaporative system monitor
    • Diesel-powered vehicles model-years 1998 through 2006 with any incomplete monitors
    • Diesel-powered vehicles model-years 2007 incomplete monitors, excluding the Non-Methane Hydrocarbon (NMHC) and the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) monitors (effective July 5, 2015)

For vehicles with known OBD test difficulties, refer to the On-Board Diagnostic Test Reference.

What are the OBD II readiness monitor requirements for model year 2007 and newer light-duty diesel vehicles?

Effective July 5, 2023, all OBD II readiness monitors, except the Non-Methane Hydrocarbon (NMHC) and the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) monitors, must be complete before a 2007 model-year and newer light duty diesel vehicle can pass a Smog Check inspection. The BAR-OIS automatically applies this standard and will exempt vehicles with known OBD test difficulties without requiring input from the Smog Check inspector.

Yes. Lack of power or ground at the DLC will not cause a BAR-OIS inspection failure due to no communication with the vehicle. When these circuits are faulty, the DAD should still communicate with the vehicle; however, follow the instructions provided by your DAD vendor to use any auxiliary power cable or ground cables. Each DAD vendor has different methods for supplying auxiliary power or ground.

What STAR performance measures are used to evaluate BAR-OIS inspections?

  • Similar Vehicle Failure Rate (SVFR)
  • Follow-up Pass Rate (FPR)

What STAR performance measures are not used to evaluate BAR-OIS inspections?

  • Fuel Cap Not Performed
  • Evap Not Performed
  • Timing Not Performed
  • ASM Restarts
  • Aborted Tests
  • Incorrect Gear Selection