Can I Donate My Car Even If It Doesn’t Pass Emissions Testing?

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Want to learn what to do if your car doesn’t pass a smog test, and how donating it can save you time, money, and stress? You’ve come to the right place. Read on and you’ll find out why donation is easier than fixing or selling, what benefits you get from giving your car away, and how your gift can help people fighting breast cancer. Plus, it’s free and hassle-free for you!

Your Car Can Still Help Save Lives Even If It Fails the Smog Test!

If your car didn’t pass a smog or emissions test, that means something isn’t working properly. You’re not allowed to drive a car that fails this test on public roads, and doing so can get you ticketed.

Smog checks are required by most states to help reduce air pollution and protect public health. They’re also a must in many states if you want to register your motor vehicle with the DMV.

During the test, a licensed technician connects your car to special equipment to measure emissions. Once the test is done, you’ll get a report showing whether your car passed or failed.

If your car fails, you can take it to a licensed test-and-repair station to get it fixed, then return for a retest to pass the smog check.

What to Do With a Malfunctioning Car

Fixing a car with high emissions might not cost much at first, but if multiple parts are failing, the problem could keep coming back. That means more trips to the shop and more money out of your pocket.

Nobody wants the stress of constant repairs. So, what are your options?

You can keep spending on repairs. You can send your automobile to the junkyard. Or you can try selling or trading it.

Selling might seem like a simple solution, but it can be tricky. Each state has its own rules. In California, for example, if you sell a car that can’t pass a smog test, you might end up responsible if the buyer can’t register it. This could cancel the sale, or even lead to legal trouble.

There’s a better way: donate your car. You can donate your car without a smog certificate, free and clear, to a group like Breast Cancer Car Donations. No need to fix anything or worry about smog tests. Plus, your contribution supports a great cause and may earn you a tax deduction.

This is the easiest and most rewarding option. Breast Cancer Car Donations makes it simple and quick. Just reach out, and we’ll pick up your car and send you a tax receipt. Donating gives you more advantages than repairing, selling, trading, or junking your vehicle.

The Benefits of Donating Your Car

Here are the benefits of donating your car to Breast Cancer Car Donations:

• You’ll enjoy a quick, smooth, and convenient donation process.
• You’ll get fast, free towing — that’s right: there’s no cost to you.
• You’ll no longer be responsible for your car after pickup, so you can stop paying for registration and insurance.
• You’ll receive a top tax deduction, since we auction your car at the highest price possible.
• You won’t have to deal with paperwork — we handle it all for you.
• You’ll stop paying for repairs and maintenance, saving you money.

Best of all, your giving directly helps people in need. Imagine the joy of a woman hearing that her cancer is in remission, made possible in part by your donation. That kind of support is priceless.

FAQs

What makes a car fail a smog test?

A car can fail a smog test for many reasons: worn-out spark plugs, a faulty oxygen sensor, dirty air filters, or issues with the catalytic converter. Even problems with the fuel cap can trigger a failure.

Do smog test rules change by state?

Yes, smog test rules vary by state. Some states have strict testing rules for all vehicles, while others only require it in certain areas or for certain model years.

How can I tell if my car might fail a smog test?

If your check engine light is on, your fuel economy is dropping, or your car is emitting more exhaust than usual, it might fail. Older or poorly maintained vehicles are more likely to run into trouble.

Are older cars ever excused from smog tests?

Some states offer exemptions for older cars, classic cars, or low-mileage vehicles. Check with your local DMV or the secretary of state’s office to see if your automobile qualifies.

Will a failed smog test lower my car’s value?

Yes, a failed test can make your car harder to sell and may reduce its value. Buyers usually don’t want to deal with the cost or hassle of repairs just to pass a test.

Why is donating better than fixing a failing car?

Donating your vehicle skips the repair costs, avoids legal issues, and gives you an opportunity to make a positive impact. It’s free, easy, and may come with a tax break.

Donate Your Car and Help Save Lives!

When you donate your car to us, we sell it at auction and use the proceeds to support our nonprofit partners. These organizations use your donation to provide vital breast health services across the country. That includes financial help for uninsured and underserved breast cancer patients who need treatment.

You can donate nearly all types of vehicles — even one that doesn’t run. No matter where you live, we can pick it up since we have car donation programs in all 50 states. Want more details? Visit our FAQs page to learn about the process.

If your car didn’t pass the smog test, donate it now! Contact us at 866-540-5069 or fill out our online donation form. Your contribution can change and even save lives.

Last Updated: July 27th, 2025