Failed My Smog Test Because of HC in Cali(Of Course) Please Help

[static821]

Hey guys,

So after a long time, I'm finally selling my '96 RS in order to buy a '99 GS. Unfortunately, I had to get it smogged before I can sell it. I live in San Francisco, so I figured finding a cheap local shop and smogging my car wouldnt be a problem....but I was totally wrong.
So I went down to the smog testing place around the corner, and after scanning my VIN, they said I had to go to a test-only center. I went down to the closest center, and dropped my car off.

Basically, everything passed except the test for HC's at 15mph. The Max level was 56 and mine came in at 87. Anyone have an idea as to what could cause this? For obvious reasons I don't really want to dump a whole lot of money into this car just to sell it. I just need to get it to pass, and I can move on.

The car is totally stock except for a cat-back exhaust, but I was told this shouldn't effect emissions much. Anyone have any idea what could cause this? If anyone knows of any good shops in the area that may help.

Also, I was wondering if anyone has heard of the Blue Sky emissions reduction product. I was taking a look on craigslist and came accross a local shop that was selling this for $16. www.blueskycleanair.com It's supposed to work, but I realize most of these things are just scams. Anyone had any experience with this type of prodcut?

Any advice or thoughts would totally help since I need to get this smog stuff taken care of by tomorrow since the new owner wants it by tomorrow night. Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[c5chris]

What did you do in prep for your smog test?

I did:
- clean my K&N filter
- change the oil
- got new plugs
- put back my stock exhaust, catback and all
- ran car 20 miles to make sure it's hot
- idled the car up to the point of testing

 

[Strm Trpr]

I replaced everything on my car when I first brought it into CA.
Air Filter
Fuel Filter
Plugs/Wires
Both O2 Sensors
Changed Oil
Replaced PCV Valve
And I still got a high reading on HC's

High HC's could be because your Catylitic Converter is becoming inefficient.
The damn smog tech should've told you what could possibly fix your car.
Then after it is fixed, he should retest your car for you, at least that was my total experience when bringing my car into CA.
Take your print out to some other smog techs and have them give you an opinion and take it from there.
I HATE TEST ONLY STATIONS!

 

[static821]

Thanks for the replies guys. I do appreciate the advice. Unfortunately, I did no sort of prep for the smog test. I figured since it was mostly unmodified it should just pass on its own. Last time I make that mistake

I took my car into my regular mechanic today, and he believes it is the cat converter going bad....I'll be getting a call back within the hour and I hope that's all it is.

The test only station really did suck. I asked him for advice, or if he had any idea what the problem could be, but he refused to even speculate...

Anyway, in case the info is useful for anyone else in the future, I'll make it a point to post what's actually wrong once I get the call back. I'm just hoping it doesn't get expensive since I am selling it.